Weather Peshawar: Snowfall Lures Tourists to Swat Valley

The picturesque Swat Valley, known as the "Switzerland of Pakistan," has become a winter wonderland, attracting tourists from across the country after the Met Office predicted snowfall in the region. Visitors are flocking to the area to experience the magical snow and enjoy various winter sports and activities.

Tourists from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces, as well as from cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore, have arrived in Swat to enjoy snowball fights, skiing, and other winter sports. The area's natural beauty has left many in awe, with one tourist, Naveed Khan, stating that seeing snowfall in Malam Jabba was a dream come true. Another tourist, Faraz Khan, praised the region's unique combination of snowfall, water rafting, and trout fishing, making it a hub for winter tourism.

However, the influx of tourists has also led to concerns about hotel prices, with some rooms costing up to Rs. 15,000 per day in Kalam. The Met Office has predicted heavy to moderate snowfall in the region, which may disrupt roads and cause landslides. To manage the situation, the KP tourism department is working to develop new tourist spots and infrastructure, including new jeepable tracks and tourist facilitation centers. A mega project for winter sports and tourism events is also underway, featuring events like sports rafting, paragliding, and a youth leadership conference.

As the snowfall continues to transform the upper region of Swat into a breathtaking winter paradise, authorities are ensuring smooth access to tourist spots. The tourism police will be operational in Malakand and Hazara divisions to facilitate tourists, and Rescue 1122 has placed stations in tourist resorts on alert. With more snowfall expected, the region is likely to remain a popular destination for winter tourism, boosting the local economy and providing a unique experience for visitors.