Lake Mahodand

Location : Lake Mahodand lies in the North of Kalam and 12 km away from Ushu. It takes around 6.5 hours to reach this beautiful lake from Islamabad which is 381 km away. It is famous among nature and peace lovers and trout fish hunters. ‘Mahodand’ means ‘Lake of fishes’ (especially trout fishes).
Accessibility: Mahodand valley can be reached through an un-metalled road from Kalam in a 4×4 vehicle. Although the road is rough and tricky, but the beauty of the surrounding landscapes is a treat for the visitors. Small villages are scattered in the mountains and the hollering smoke that coils into the sky from the houses are some attractive views, which live in the memory forever.

The valley is long and wide and it touches Chitral boundary in the extreme North. After driving for about four to five hours from the vast valley of Kalam, 35 kilometers away, one can reach the spectacular valley of Mahodand where the small lakes, tall cedar trees and widespread pastures can be seen. Small birds that are called ‘non-game birds’ fill the air with their melodious music all the day long.

Tourist Attractions: The Lake looks like a river and changes its shape throughout. It is best to visit Lake Mahodand in the spring or late June because that is the time when glaciers have been melted.

Temporary restaurants and hotels have been constructed by the locals, which provide essential facilities of food and accommodation. There is only one restaurant that cooks good local food. Boating facilities are also available on rent.
Fishing permits can be obtained from PTDC resort in Kalam. Rising problems include over-fishing by the locals and the inappropriate ways of fishing e.g. electrocution, large nets and dynamiting. This has reduced the population of the trout fish in the lake. Authorities must take initiatives to save this rare feature of the valley.

Another attraction in the area is the ‘Spring of Healing’ where people come from around the world to bathe in the water that is said to have healing properties. Trekkers can reach Shandoor Top or Gazar in Chitral through a proper track. The valley provides beautiful and peaceful camping sites. Trekkers are advised to arrange gas cylinders. This will help to reduce the burden on the natural ecosystem and also preserve the deteriorating environment of the valley. Smalls huts have been constructed by the nomads of the area who take their livestock to lush green areas for grazing.

There are several waterfalls in this vicinity that increase the beauty of the valley. Waterfalls are of different lengths and sizes. The sound of these waterfalls echo throughout the valley and creates a cracking sound on the rocks. A visitor explained the beauty of this place as “The spectacular landscapes, the canopy of tall cedar trees, the vast pastures, the roaring waterfalls, the shimmering lakes, the sky touching mountains, and the exotic fragrance of wild flowers and herbs leave such strong imprints on the mind that the visitor is always in search of other opportunity to become one with nature again.

Few MahoDand Swat Valley Great Images :

Come and Enjoy This Place! This is Remarkable Place! Great View, Great People!

Thanks and Regards