Flowers bloom in the orchards in Charbagh tehsil, Swat. PHOTO: FAZAL KHALIQ/EXPRESS
With the first greens of spring season unfurling over Swat, locals as well as tourists from around the country flock to catch a glimpse of dazzling orchards and lush green vales.
While the valley defrosts after an equally beautiful winter, hundreds of thousands of horticulture enthusiasts wait with baited breath for spring. On its part, the valley has never disappointed. This year, Swat’s unveiling from white has drawn the attention of many. Orchards in Barikot, Charbagh, Khwazakhela, Matta, Kabal and Kokaria are predicted to draw the largest number of locals and visitors.
“I love flowers in Swat during spring,” Shaista Hakeem, a university student, tells The Express Tribune. “Hundreds of peach, plum, almond and apricot orchards bear yellow, pink and white flowers at their loveliest,” adds Hakeem.
“God has bestowed all kinds of favours to this beautiful place. Apart from its breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and crystal clear waters, it has thousands of orchards which bear delicious fruit,” says Amjad Ali who is visiting Charbagh.
“This is a unique valley,” says Niaz Ahmad Khan, a local journalist. “There are so many aesthetics at play and each and every season is special. Swat is truly paradise on earth.”
Sahab, a local photographer, says, “We love taking pictures here. Today I have come with my friends to take photos of flowers of the peach, almond and apricot orchards.”
Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2015.
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