The magnificent Swat Valley, popular called as Switzerland of Pakistan, is situated north of Peshawar. In ancient times it remained center of the flourishing Buddhist civilization, still having its marks found at various places. Its old name was Udyana that means the land of gardens. The archaeological sites and monasteries dating back to Buddhist era add to its historical charm. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Swat Valley is full of screaming rivers, lush green forests and snow-covered peaks adding to its natural attraction. Green fruit orchards, beautiful lakes, gushing streams and a fascinating landscape make it a place worth seeing.

LANDAKAY

This beautiful small roadside town is situated between Chakdara and Saidu Sharif on the route leading to Swat. A Tourism Information center set up by Sarhad Tourism Corporation at Landakai provides detailed information to the visitors about the valley and also offers hotel booking facility.

NIMOGRAM BUDDHIST STUPAS

Just 7 km from Landakai, a road leads towards Nimogram, which is further at a distance of 21 km. Nimogram is famous for its monastery on the top of a hill overlooking the whole area. Three main stupas with several other ones are also found here. These archaeological sites revive the Buddhist period of this place. These structures have been built with dress stones, a mastery by the old artisans. They resemble Andan Dhery monastery situated in Dir district.

SJAMLARDAR STUPA

This Buddhist stupa, just three km from Barikot, unfolds its attractive glimpses on the right side of the road. Its was approximately built between the third and the fourth centuries AD, perhaps being the only relic with its original dome still intact. On the right side of the road, nearly one- and –a-half kilometers from the stupa, large figures of Buddha carved on a rock revive memories of that once glorious period of Buddhism in this region.

MINGORA

Mingora being lifeline of trade and business activity is the main central city of Swat Valley adjacent to Saidu Sharif. It offers food outlets. Restaurants and hotels. Locally produced items beautifully displayed at its main bazaar, shops, show rooms ect. Include semi precious stones, embroider3ed dresses, hand woven ladies shawls, bed sheets and woodwork. Traditional ornaments and antiques are available at shops. Visitors on trips to Swat Valley usually stroll its bazaars for shopping at the end of their journey. You can find emerald mines in hills northward of the town, famous worldwide for their expensive and valuable emeralds.