Bashigram Lake

Bashigram Lake lies hidden in the mountains east of Madyan. The area around the lake has been used by local communities for centuries as summer pasture. The name 'Bashigram' comes from the village at the trailhead, one of the oldest settlements in middle Swat.

The lake was traditionally a seasonal water source for the shepherds and farmers of the Bashigram valley. The water flowing down from the lake irrigated the terraced fields below, supporting rice and maize cultivation that has sustained the community for generations.

Bashigram Lake was 'discovered' by trekkers relatively recently, in the late 2000s. It has since become a popular weekend trek for both locals and tourists. The trail offers a wonderful introduction to trekking in Swat, passing through inhabited villages where you can experience genuine Swati hospitality before entering the wilderness.