BarSwat
Kalam is the most popular destination in upper Swat — and for good reason. At 6,800 feet, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pine forests, it's the launchpad for Mahodand, Ushu, Utror and Gabral. Here's everything you need.
Kalam is a town in upper Swat at 6,800 feet (2,073 m) elevation, 100 km north of Mingora and 350 km from Islamabad. It sits at the meeting point of the Ushu and Utror rivers.
Luxury: Pearl Continental Malam Jabba (45 min away), Hilton Palace Kalam, Walnut Heights by Roomy.
Mid-range: Rock City Resort, Florid Hotel, Riverdale Resort, Greens Hotel by Roomy.
Budget: Comfort Inn Kalam, Saif Cottages, PTDC Motel.
1. Jeep trip to Mahodand Lake (35 km, 2 hours each way).
2. Picnic in Ushu Forest.
3. Visit Gabral and Utror valleys.
4. Trek to Kandol Lake (overnight).
5. Walk along the Swat River bridges.
6. Trout fishing in Utror.
7. Bonfire nights at riverside resorts.
Try fresh trout at any riverside restaurant. Pine Park, Hilton Palace and Rock City Resort all serve it. Local cuisine includes chapli kabab, mutton karahi and kawa green tea.
Minimum 2 nights. One day for Mahodand, one for Ushu/Utror/Gabral. Three nights if you want to slow down.
Yes, the road usually stays open. Many small hotels close December-February but the larger hotels stay open year-round.
