Fruit of labour: 250-year-old mosque stands tall among Kalam’s stunning views

Over 100 trees pockmark the premises; locals say site is true gem of region

SWAT: When you hear the name Kalam Valley, breathtaking landscapes and lush green meadows, coupled with a crisp breeze, immediately spring to mind.

Although the region has a lot to offer, the uncertain security situation in the past had impacted tourism. Now, the area is seen as more perilous than alluring.

Kalam Bazaar has lush green hills and a dense forest and between them lies a historic 250-year-old mosque. It has over 100 trees on its premises and sprawls over several acres of land located on the bank of Swat River.

Mumtaz Ahmed, a resident of Kalam, tells The Express Tribune he heard from his grandfather that more than 200 people constructed the mosque. Without the help of machinery, the workers used ropes to drag the wood planks and other materials into place. It took a long time for the completion and construction.



The overall process was divided into three phases.

First, the walls were constructed with solid diyar wood and then more stone and wood was added.

The 2010 floods left the whole area devastated. However, the mosque was not damaged.

According to Ahmed, labourers relied on hard work in those days as there was no machinery or proper resources. People living in Kalam 250 years ago also knew the art of engraving as is evident from the wok on a huge tree in front of the mosque.

Master Abdul Qayyum, an elder, says the place is a true gem and is surrounded by magnificent landscapes and sights. He adds hundreds of tourists pay a special visit to the mosque.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 18^th, 2016.