Snowfall magic in Malam Jabba: Hotels jampacked as skiing lovers flock to upper Swat
SWAT, (APP): With a steaming cup of green tea in one hand and a sizzling plate of fresh trout in the other, Ehtisham Khan sat by a window of hotel overlooking snow-draped slopes, soaking in the quiet grandeur of Malam Jabba-a famous skiing resort of Pakistan.
For the 30-year-old university lecturer, the first expecting snowfall of the winter season are turning a simple weekend getaway into a memory to cherish.
Following snowfall forecasts by the Pakistan Meteorological Department, tourists poured into this popular hill station of Swat over the weekend, eager to witness nature’s winter spectacle.
As temperatures dipped below freezing, Malam Jabba transformed into a shimmering white paradise, warming the hearts of snow lovers from across the country.
“Coming here with family to experience snowfall is the best feeling,” Khan told APP, smiling as snowflakes expected to fall on Sunday. “The beauty of winter, the mountains, and being with loved ones—it’s simply unmatched.”
The snowy spell also brought excitement to Malam Jabba’s ski slopes, where beginners and young skiers flocked to try their luck. Laughter echoed across the hills as skiers stumbled and slid, adding life and color to the majestic landscape.
According to the Met Office, a rainy spell accompanied by snowfall is expected in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with a possibility of landslides on weekend.
Tourists have been advised to remain cautious during travel. Echoing this, a spokesperson for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority urged visitors to follow safety guidelines.
“Tourists should wear warm clothing to avoid cold-related illnesses,” the spokesperson said. “Drivers must use vehicle heaters intermittently, ensure fresh air circulation, and carry snow chains to prevent accidents.”
Authorities, he added, are on high alert, with all concerned departments providing round-the-clock services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Among the delighted tourists was Sumbul Bibi, who traveled from Nowshera with her husband and children to experience Malam Jabba’s winter charm. Wrapped in an overcoat, she described the trip as unforgettable.
“I am having the time of my life,” she said. “This is my third visit, and I always wanted to come back. Playing in the snow, skiing, and riding the chairlift to see the valley from above it’s pure joy.”
Originally planning a two-day stay, her family extended their visit by another day, unwilling to leave the enchanting snowfall behind.
The surge in winter tourism has also given a welcome boost to local businesses. Hotels and restaurants are running at full capacity, with many fully booked days in advance.
“All major hotels are pre-booked in Malam Jabba,” said Ataullah Khan, a hotel and restaurant owner in Mingora. “We are booked for at least the next two days. Guests are even waiting for cancellations. We’re doing our best to give them a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
As snow likely to blanket the hills of Swat, Malam Jabba remains alive with excitement where winter turns into celebration, and every falling snowflake carries a story of wonder, warmth, and human joy.
