The beauty that is Pakistan is not just confined to the country’s mountainous north, south of Gilgit valley and north of Peshawar, across the high Malakand pass, is the lush green valleys of swat which stretches out towards the Hindu Kush range of mountains. The valley of swat is the Udayana or the garden of the ancient Hindu epics, the name given to this land of unsurpassable beauty. It is here that Alexander the Great encountered opposing armies before marching down to the sub continental plains. Swat valley has been aptly described as a scenic wonderland where Buddhism flourished 2000 years ago.
The valley was intact the cradle of Buddhism where three of its major schools where born. It was here that the famous Gandhara School of Sculpture took roots, giving expression to the Greek-Roman form in the local Buddhist tradition. The valley still retains the ruins of Buddhist Stupas, monasteries and statues. The most striking of these is the massive carving of the sitting Buddha, carved into a rock face. Despite the various battles fought here over the centuries, a cloud of serenity still overhangs the valley. An atmosphere of peace and contentment prevails. Swat is one of those places that attract visitors the year round with its invigorating climate, with flowers and fruits blossoming almost the year round.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Islamabad – Saidu Sharif
At 0900 hrs departure for Swat.Lunch break at Mardan. En-route visit Takht Bhai (the largest Bhudhist monastery in Pakistan). On arrival transfer to hotel and check in.Afternoon visit White Palace (Margazar, 13kms from Saidu Sharif). Overnight stay in hotel at Saidu Sharif.
Day 02: Saidu Sharif – Kalam
At 10.00 we depart for upper Swat valley tour, enroute stop for lunch at Bahrain and also walk through the Bazaar. Over here we can also see the confluence of Bahrain and Swat river. Our expected arrival at Kalam is at 1700. Overnight stay in hotel Kalam.
Day 03: Kalam
This day we can take jeep excursion for Mahodand Lake which is 20kms from Kalam and here we have full day to explore Ushu Valley. Overnight stay in hotel at Kalam.
Day 04: Kalam – Miandam
At 09.00 we leave for Malam Jabba. Our expected arrival at Malam Jabba is at 14.00. Afternoon enjoy the ride of chair lift or other option is to walk through the meadows. Overnight stay in hotel at Miandam.
Day 05: Miandam – Islamabad
At 09.00 we drive back to Islamabad. Upon arrival the clients will be dropped at their residences.
-End of the Tour-
Cost includes
- Comfortable 3-star accommodation with breakfast
- AC Transportation (car) with fuels and toll taxes
- English speaking Guide services
- Sightseeing tickets
- Jeep for Mahodand
- Basic First Aid kit
- Pick and drop
- All kind of taxes