An Account of Barikot Swat 

Swat is one of the most enchantingly beautiful districts in Malakand. It offers some of the most beautiful historic sites and picturesque scenery. Swat’s Historical sites gather tourists from around the world throughout the year. One such site is Barikot Swat.

In this blog, Graana.com has come up with a comprehensive account of the historic site of Barikot Swat. 

Information Table

The town of Barikot serves as the entrance to the valley.

About Barikot Swat

Barikot is among one of the top places to visit in the Swat Valley, Pakistan. It lies at the foothill of the mountainous region that elevates to around 1500 metres above sea level. Overall the temperature and the weather of the region are moderate. Also, the climate remains temperate all around the year. However, during the winter season, it gets really cold there.

Barikot Swat, Pakistan, is a fascinating historical place spread along Swat to the Malakand road. The reason is so many ruins and remains of this years-old historical place are waiting to be explored; however, the unearthing is still ongoing, and it might take years to explore the whole area. 

A lot of archaeological teams are interested in this site. The reason is that they are aware of the Barikot’s cultural importance in rebuilding the history of the area. The old names Bazira and Beira are known to people today through archeology and history.

The two archaeologists, namely Sir Aurel Stein and Giuseppe Tucci, were the ones who identified these older names. It was discovered via a 9th-century writing on the hill and displayed in the Lahore museum.

The Barikot Swat used to be called Vajirasthana during the Hindu reign; however, not many people in Pakistan know it. In some academic publications, Barikot has been named Bir-Kot, which is the local pronunciation of this word.

History of Barikot Swat

Bazira is an important archaeological site that gives us a complete picture of the region’s history, culture, and religion. According to classical historians, Alexander The Great conquered Bazira in 327 BCE. Since 1984, an Italian Archaeological mission has been digging at this site, uncovering many historical and ancient artefacts, including walls and monuments from the time of Hindus and Buddhists.

The late Bronze Age in Bazira was from 1200 to 800 BC, followed by a period of desertion from 800 to 500 BC when the city’s earthen fortifications fell. After that, from 500 to 350 BC, the city began to form, and there was a time of cultural blending. Later, the Mauryan kingdom ruled from 250 to 150 BC, and later periods saw the presence of the Kushan and Turk Shahi in Bazira, Swat.

Location

It is located on the bank of the Swat River and about 20 km away from Mingora, which is the largest city of Swat. Other nearby places in the vicinity include Butkara and Stupa. The famous Swat museum is located 20 kilometres to the west of the Barikot tehsil.

What is the Temperature and Weather at Barikot?

The weather here is moderate all year round. In winter, it hardly ever goes below freezing, while in summer, it can get pretty warm, with temperatures around 30°C (86°F). This place has an oceanic climate, with the warmest average temperature in June at 35 degrees and the coldest in January at 14 degrees.

The Best Time to Visit Barikot Swat

The ideal time one can visit Barikot is from March to May and August to November. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and tourists can avoid heavy rainfall that happens all over the year. The average yearly temperature in Barikot is around 25 degrees Celsius.

Historical Significance of Bazira Swat

This city holds precious secrets from old times. Pakistani and Italian archaeologists are working together to uncover an Indo-Greek city of great significance. They are excavating old buildings and stuff from the time before the Mauryan Empire.

Bazira’s history dates far back, even before the legendary Alexander The Great. It claims to be the oldest city in Swat. You can witness its magnificence during the Mauryan Empire, which was from 250 to 150 B.C. The city flourished during the Kushan period until the 5th century A.D. It played a significant part as a trade link between Gandhara and Kashmir, crowded with life and numerous stories.

Through each unearthing, the past comes to life with hidden wealth like ancient coins, old pottery, and weapons. These artefacts portray a clear picture of the times when Alexander the Great was in Swat. The stories of Bazira are uncovered through these findings, connecting us to the past and maintaining its soul for future generations.

The unearthing of ruins also discovered the remains of a university complex and a temple and some old weapons, vases, and pots. Still, there is so much more to be excavated.

If Bazira City is correctly presented at the global level, it can help bring home a lot of tourists, monks, and archaeology students from all over the world.

Top Historical Places in Barikot

Barikot is home to some of the most captivating historical sites in Pakistan. These sites are a great way to get to know more about the history of this region. Going to all these sites is quite a good experience. 

Amlok Dara Stupa

This is an ancient structure found in the Swat Valley, Pakistan, built during the 3rd century as part of the Gandhara civilisation. Sir Aurel Stein, a Hungarian-British archaeologist, discovered it in the year1926. The stupa has a square base measuring about 4 metres thick and a dome standing 7 metres tall with a width of 21 metres.

Unfortunately, despite its historical significance, the authorities have not properly safeguarded the remains from damage. This neglect poses a risk to this precious piece of history, and it calls for urgent measures to ensure its preservation for future generations.

Bazira Ruins

Explore the fascinating Bazira Ruins, an ancient city hidden beneath the ground for a very long time. It’s situated near the River Swat and has a captivating history.

When you visit, you’ll find the remains of stupas, monasteries, cells, and temples that reveal the incredible stories of its glorious past. These ancient structures are like time capsules that take you back in history and let you imagine how life was in those times.

Najigram Stupa

When you explore the stunning valleys of Swat, you’ll come across the remarkable Najigram Stupa in Barikot. This historical site is well-loved by many, featuring a big dome and drums on a square base. To keep it safe, there’s a protective wall surrounding the stupa.

Although some smaller stupas nearby have been damaged, Najigram Stupa still stands strong, reminding us of its great significance in the past. It’s a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region and a sight not to be missed on your journey through Swat.

Malkidam Waterfall

This stunning waterfall is surrounded by lush green mountains and serene woods, creating a picturesque scene. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely picnics, invigorating hikes, and taking breathtaking photographs. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Malkidam Waterfall and experience the wonders of nature in all its glory.

Makhodgal

This historical site is replete with prehistoric marvels. This includes an old fort, temple, and mosque that share captivating tales of bygone times. You’ll also find some temples there, dating from the times of the old Gandhara period. They are offering an insight into the rich heritage of the village. Exploring Makhodgal will leave you stunned and connected to the mesmerising history of this area.

Nearby Places

• Saidu Sharif: Saidu Sharif is the administrative capital of Swat and is located approximately 20 kilometers from Barikot. You can visit the Swat Museum, White Palace (Saidu Sharif Palace), and other cultural sites in this town.
• Mingora: Mingora is the largest city in Swat and is just a short drive from Barikot. It offers various markets, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. You can also visit Mingora’s main bazaar for a taste of local life.
• Malam Jabba: If you’re interested in skiing or snow sports, Malam Jabba is a popular hill station in Swat, around 40 kilometers from Barikot. It offers skiing facilities in the winter and is a beautiful spot for nature lovers.
• Madyan and Bahrain: These two picturesque towns are known for their scenic beauty, meadows, and rivers. Madyan and Bahrain are about an hour’s drive from Barikot and offer a tranquil environment for relaxation.
• Kalam: Kalam is a stunning valley located around 100 kilometers from Barikot. It’s known for its lush green landscapes, rivers, and natural beauty. The road to Kalam is quite scenic, making the journey itself a memorable experience.
• Ushu Forest: Located near Kalam, the Ushu Forest is a peaceful place to visit. It’s known for its hiking trails and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
• Mahodand Lake: Mahodand Lake is situated in the upper reaches of Ushu Valley. It’s a serene lake surrounded by lush green meadows and is a great place for picnics and boating.
• Miandam: Miandam is another beautiful valley located not far from Barikot. It’s known for its terraced fields, orchards, and scenic views.
• Bahrain Riverside: The Bahrain area has a lovely riverside where you can relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and have a picnic by the river.
• Buddhist Stupas: Swat Valley has a rich history, and you can explore ancient Buddhist stupas and archaeological sites in the region, such as Butkara Stupa and Udegram Buddhist Monastery.

Frequently Asked Questions about Barikot Swat

Following are some of the frequently asked questions.

Does the area experience extreme weather events according to Barikot Swat weather history?

Barikot, Swat is not known for experiencing extreme weather events like hurricanes or heatwaves, according to Barikot Swat weather history. However, staying informed about weather forecasts and potential weather warnings is always good.

Which is the Best Route to Barikot?

To go there, the best route is via M-1 and M-16. It starts from Islamabad and heads towards Swat. This road trip will typically take around 3 hours, presenting beautiful views of the Swat Valley along the way.

What are the average winter temperatures there, according to Barikot Swat weather data?

The winter temperatures in Barikot, Swat, based on Barikot Swat weather data, generally range from chilly to cold, with the possibility of freezing temperatures and occasional snowfall in higher elevations.

What is the distance of Barikot Swat from Islamabad?

Barikot is approximately 220 kilometres away from Islamabad.  One can reach there within a 3-hour drive by road. 

What precautions should we take during the monsoon season, considering Barikot Swat weather conditions?

During the monsoon season, Barikot Swat weather conditions may lead to landslides and flash floods, especially in hilly areas. Stay informed about weather reports and avoid risky terrains during heavy rainfall.

What is Barikot known for?

Barikot is famous for its old artifacts that open a window for us to history. People can find pottery, coins, and old sculptures from ancient civilizations. It showcases the rich heritage of this historic area. 

This was all about Barikot Swat. For more information, visit Graana.com.