Travel Guide to Swat
Discover Swat Valley, Pakistan's hidden gem, where stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality come together for an unforgettable travel experience.
The Enchanting Valley of Swat: Pakistan's Hidden Gem
Swat, known as the 'Switzerland of the East,' is a stunning valley located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The valley is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, lush green fields, and crystal-clear rivers. The Swat River runs through the valley, adding to the serene beauty of the area. The valley is also rich in history, with ancient Buddhist stupas and monasteries dotting the landscape. Swat is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The valley offers numerous trekking and hiking opportunities, with trails leading to picturesque lakes and glaciers. Malam Jabba, a popular ski resort in Swat, attracts visitors from all over the country during the winter months. For those interested in history and culture, the Swat Museum in Saidu Sharif showcases a fascinating collection of Gandhara art and artifacts. The local hospitality in Swat is unmatched, with friendly and welcoming residents eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Traditional Pashtun cuisine, featuring dishes like Chapli Kebabs and Lamb Karahi, is a must-try when visiting the valley. Whether you are exploring the ancient ruins or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Swat promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Local tips in Swat
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Swat is from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the valley is in full bloom.
- Local Transport: Opt for local jeeps or hire a private car to explore the valley, as public transport options may be limited.
- Cultural Respect: Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Safety First: Always check the latest travel advisories and be aware of your surroundings, as the area has had security issues in the past.
- Cash on Hand: Keep cash with you, as ATMs may not be available in remote areas.
Popular Attractions in Swat
Swat, known as the Switzerland of the East, offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and historical sites. From the lush green valleys and snow-capped mountains to the ancient Buddhist stupas and ruins, Swat is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visit the stunning Malam Jabba ski resort for a thrilling skiing experience, explore the majestic Swat Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage, and hike to the enchanting Mahodand Lake for a peaceful retreat surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the famous Butkara Stupa, a significant archaeological site that dates back to the Gandhara civilization. Swat promises a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure, culture, and tranquility in a single destination.
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Explore the enchanting Usho Forest in Kalam, Swat, a national treasure of lush greenery and serene landscapes perfect for nature lovers.
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Explore the historical grandeur of Marghazar White Palace in Swat Valley, a stunning blend of royal heritage and natural beauty.
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Experience the serene beauty of Fiza Gat Park, a tranquil escape in Swat Valley, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Explore the stunning Jarogo Waterfall in Swat Valley, a breathtaking destination perfect for hiking, relaxation, and incredible natural beauty.
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Explore the rich cultural heritage of Swat Valley at the Swat Museum, a premier archaeological museum showcasing ancient artifacts.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fizagat in Swat Valley, where nature and tranquility meet for an unforgettable experience.
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Discover endless fun and excitement at Wonder World Amusement Park in Mingora, where adventure meets family-friendly attractions in beautiful Swat.
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Discover the breathtaking views and local flavors at Badgoi Pass, a must-see destination in Swat, Pakistan.
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Experience the enchanting beauty of Shahi Bagh in Kalam Valley, a serene retreat surrounded by lush meadows and unique flora.
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Explore the breathtaking Ushu Forest in Kalam, Swat Valley, a national forest filled with lush greenery and serene landscapes.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Saifullah Lake, a serene oasis in Swat Valley, offering stunning views and adventure amidst nature.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Green Top, a serene nature preserve in the heart of Swat Valley, Pakistan, renowned for its majestic views and tranquil ambiance.
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Explore Butkara I: A Historical Buddhist Ruin in Swat Valley, Pakistan, Where Nature Meets Ancient Culture.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Janshae Meadows in Kalam Valley, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Explore the stunning panoramic views and serene beauty of Balasoor Top, a hidden gem in the heart of Swat Valley, Pakistan.
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Discover the serene beauty of Chukail Meadows, a hidden paradise in Swat Valley, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore Miandam: A Tranquil Paradise in Swat Valley with Majestic Mountains and Scenic Trails.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Dhamaka Lake in Swat Valley, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and cultural heritage.
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Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Kalam View, a must-visit tourist attraction in Swat, Pakistan, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Kooh Lake in Kalam Valley, a serene escape surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Donchar Gul Waterfall in Swat Valley, a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Discover the timeless beauty of Amluk-dara Stupa, a historical gem in the heart of Swat Valley, Pakistan, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kundol Lake in Kalam Valley, where pristine nature meets tranquil serenity.
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Explore the breathtaking Kalam Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan – a paradise of lush landscapes, adventure, and cultural richness.
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Explore Beshai Meadows in Kalam, Swat – a breathtaking tourist attraction surrounded by stunning natural beauty and adventure.
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Explore the enchanting Shingro Waterfall in Swat Valley, a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by lush landscapes and serene beauty.
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Explore the serene beauty and rich culture of Dasht-e-Laila in Swat Valley, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers in Pakistan.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Baadgoi Top in Swat Valley, a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Pakistan.
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Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Jarogo Meadows in Swat Valley, Pakistan—your perfect escape into nature's embrace.
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Explore the serene beauty of Green Playground in Swat Valley, a perfect blend of nature and adventure for every traveler.
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Experience the serene beauty of Mushroom Lake in Kumrat Valley, a stunning natural attraction in Pakistan perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Shangla Top, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kedam Waterfall in Swat Valley, a hidden gem in Pakistan's stunning natural landscape.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Jungle Valley in Swat, Pakistan - a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pearl Lake, a serene escape nestled in the stunning Swat Valley of Pakistan.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pola Waterfalls and Rainbow View, a hidden gem in Swat Valley, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Doorgah Valley in Swat, Pakistan, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the enchanting Spinkhor Waterfall in Kalam, Swat – a natural gem offering breathtaking scenery and adventurous trails.
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Explore Chorlaka Top: A breathtaking viewpoint in Swat Valley, offering stunning landscapes and a serene escape into nature's beauty.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Love Lake in Swat Valley, a serene paradise surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery.
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Experience the tranquility of Muraday Chasma Abb E Shifa, a hidden natural oasis in Swat Valley, Pakistan, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Salo Sar / Usherai Pass in Swat Valley, a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Shahdaaga Top in Swat Valley, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mirha Waterfall in Swat Valley, a stunning natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the breathtaking Mallam Jabba Waterfall in Swat, Pakistan, where nature's beauty and adventure await every traveler.
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Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Swat Valley with Shahid Ali Tourist Guide, your gateway to adventure in Pakistan.
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Experience the rich culture and breathtaking beauty at Muhammad Shabeer Jan in Mingora, a gem of the Swat Valley.
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Explore the hidden beauty and rich cultural heritage of Haji Karim Mullah Khel Mohalla in Swat Valley, a serene escape for every traveler.
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Explore the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and adventure-filled experiences in Kalam's International Tourism Zone, a gem of Swat Valley, Pakistan.
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Beautiful World in Swat, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Swat
When is the best time to go to Swat?
Local Phrases
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- Helloسلام
[Salam] - Goodbyeخدا حافظ
[Khuda Hafiz] - Yesہاں
[Haan] - Noنہیں
[Nahi] - Please/You're welcomeمہربانی
[Mehrbani] - Thank youشکریہ
[Shukriya] - Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کریں
[Maaf Karein] - How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
[Aap kaise hain?] - Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
[Theek hoon. Aap?] - Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
[Kya aap angrezi boltay hain?] - I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آیا
[Mujhe samajh nahi aaya]
- Helloسلام
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینیو دکھائیں
[Barah karam menu dikhayen] - I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
[Mein gosht nahi khaata] - Cheers!خوش رہیں!
[Khush rahen!] - I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادا کریں
[Barah karam ada karein]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینیو دکھائیں
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- Help!مدد!
[Madad!] - Go away!چلے جاؤ!
[Chale jao!] - Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
[Police ko bulao!] - Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
[Doctor ko bulao!] - I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
[Mein gum ho gaya hoon] - I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
[Mein bimar hoon]
- Help!مدد!
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- I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
[Mein kharidna chahta hoon...] - I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
[Mein sirf dekh raha hoon] - How much is it?یہ کتنا ہے؟
[Yeh kitna hai?] - That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
[Yeh bohat mehnga hai] - Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
[Kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
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- What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
[Waqt kya hua hai?] - It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
[Ek baje hain] - Half past (10)دس بج کر پندرہ منٹ ہو چکے ہیں
[Das baj kar pandra minute ho chuke hain] - Morningصبح
[Subah] - Afternoonدوپہر
[Dopahar] - Eveningشام
[Shaam] - Yesterdayکل
[Kal] - Todayآج
[Aaj] - Tomorrowکل
[Kal] - 1ایک
[Ek] - 2دو
[Do] - 3تین
[Teen] - 4چار
[Char] - 5پانچ
[Paanch] - 6چھ
[Chhe] - 7سات
[Saath] - 8آٹھ
[Aath] - 9نو
[No] - 10دس
[Das]
- What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
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- Where's a/the...?یہاں ... کہاں ہے؟
[Yahan ... kahan hai?] - What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
[Pata kya hai?] - Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں؟
[Kya aap mujhe dikhla sakte hain?] - When's the next (bus)?اگلی گاڑی کب ہے؟
[Agli gari kab hai?] - A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (.... کے لیے)
[Ek ticket (... ke liye)]
- Where's a/the...?یہاں ... کہاں ہے؟
History of Swat
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Swat's history stretches back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human settlement as far back as 2000 BCE. The region was a crucial part of the Gandhara civilization, flourishing between the 6th century BCE and the 11th century CE. It was a major center for Buddhist learning and culture, evidenced by numerous stupas, monasteries, and sculptures discovered here.
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In 327 BCE, Alexander the Great invaded the Indian subcontinent and crossed through Swat, then known as Udyana. The local tribes put up a fierce resistance, but Alexander's superior military tactics eventually subdued them. The influence of Hellenistic culture can still be traced in the artifacts found in the region.
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During the reign of the Mauryan Empire under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, Buddhism gained significant traction in Swat. The region became a major center for Buddhist monasticism and scholarship. Many religious monuments, such as the Butkara Stupa, were built during this period, making Swat a pilgrimage site.
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In the 10th and 11th centuries, Swat was invaded by the Ghaznavid and later the Ghurid dynasties. These invasions marked the decline of Buddhism in the region and the gradual rise of Islamic influence. The remnants of Buddhist culture, however, continued to affect the local traditions and architecture.
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In the early 16th century, the Yusufzai Pashtuns migrated into Swat. This migration significantly altered the demographic and cultural landscape of the region. The Yusufzai established their own rule, which lasted for several centuries, and Swat became a semi-autonomous princely state.
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In the early 20th century, the British recognized Swat as a princely state and formalized its governance under the Wali of Swat. The Wali, Miangul Abdul Wadud, initiated various modernization efforts, including the establishment of schools, hospitals, and infrastructure projects.
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In 1969, Swat was integrated into Pakistan as part of the Malakand Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The merger brought significant administrative and social changes, including the extension of Pakistani law and the development of modern educational and healthcare facilities.
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Swat has undergone a cultural and economic revival in recent years, attracting tourists from around the world. The valley's scenic beauty, combined with its rich historical and cultural heritage, makes it a popular destination. Efforts to preserve ancient Buddhist sites and promote local arts and crafts have further enhanced its appeal.
Swat Essentials
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Swat is located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The nearest major airport is Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar, approximately 160 kilometers away. From Peshawar, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Swat, with the journey typically taking around 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Islamabad International Airport and take a bus or hire a private car to Swat, which takes around 5 to 6 hours by road.
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Swat has a variety of transportation options including taxis, rickshaws, and local buses. Taxis are generally the most convenient option for tourists and can be hired for short trips within the city or for longer excursions. Rickshaws are a cheaper alternative for short distances. Public buses and vans are available and connect major towns within Swat, but they can be crowded and less comfortable. Renting a car with a driver is also a popular option for those looking to explore the region at their own pace.
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The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger towns like Mingora, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to smaller villages and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading into remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.
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Swat is generally a safe destination, but like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Mingora is the largest town and has a relatively lower crime rate targeting tourists, but caution is always advisable. Be aware of local advice and any travel advisories before your trip.
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In case of emergency, dial 1122 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Mingora. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Contact your country's embassy or consulate for additional support if needed.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a polite nod. Men should avoid shaking hands with women unless the woman extends her hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Swat like a local, visit the local bazaars where you can buy traditional handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient Buddhist ruins and the beautiful Swat Museum. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Swat River or hike the scenic trails in the nearby mountains.
Trending Landmark in Swat
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Malam Jabba Ski Resort by Samsons Group
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Fiza Gat Park
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Marghazar White Palace
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Mahodand Lake
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Fizagat
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Swat Museum
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Madyan Bridge
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Jarogo Waterfall Swat Valley | Visit Malam Jabba, Kalam Valley, Kumrat Valley | Swat Travel Guide
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Sarfaraz khan
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Butkara I
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Ladies Park, Kanju Township
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Ushu Forest
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Kalam Glacier
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Jaaz Banda
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Badgoi Pass
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