The breathtaking Kalam Valley once again proved its potential as a premier winter sports destination as a vibrant five-day Snow Festival concluded on Saturday in Matiltan, featuring exhilarating snow kabaddi and tug-of-war competitions that celebrated youth energy, strength, and sportsmanship.
Set against the stunning snow-covered landscape, the festival drew a large number of tourists from across Swat and other parts of the country. The event was jointly organised by Ezro Lagoon Resort in collaboration with the Upper Swat Development Authority (USDA), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department, and Green Tourism, showcasing a successful model of public-private partnership for sports and tourism promotion.
The final day witnessed high-adrenaline snow kabaddi and tug-of-war clashes between the teams of Ezro Whisper Utror and Ezro Loft Paloga. The matches remained fiercely competitive and thoroughly entertaining, keeping spectators captivated till the very last moment. Demonstrating exceptional strength, coordination, and determination, the Ezro Loft Paloga team clinched a thrilling victory on the final point, earning loud applause from the crowd.
Following their triumph, players celebrated with great enthusiasm, performing traditional Bhangra dances to the rhythmic beats of drums, adding cultural color and festive spirit to the snowy arena.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of Ezro Lagoon Resort, Hamid Khan praised the athletes for their discipline, teamwork, and high morale, highlighting sports as a powerful tool for youth development and community engagement.
USDA spokesperson Saeedur Rehman said that such winter sports events play a crucial role in promoting winter tourism, empowering local youth, and projecting Swat as an emerging hub for adventure and snow sports. He added that the provincial government, USDA, and the tourism department are taking practical steps to institutionalise winter festivals to boost the local economy and encourage healthy recreational activities.
Tourists expressed delight over the unique experience of witnessing traditional sports on snow-covered grounds.
The Snow Festival created a lively and energetic atmosphere in Matiltan, highlighting the natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality of Upper Swat. The successful conducting of snow sports reaffirmed Swat’s growing identity as a winter tourism and sports destination, keeping tourist interest alive during the winter season while opening new avenues for youth engagement and local economic growth.
