MINGORA: Natural beauty and ancient history intermingles at Sreyshah Dub, a mysterious lake, which is largely hidden from the world’s eyes.

About 25 kilometres from Mingora above Manglore village, the rainwater lake is located on the top of Shingrai Mountain overlooking the entire Swat, Shangla and Buner up to Sawabi. The historical Nangraial village and Jahanabad Buddha with the sacred Buddhist rock inscription are located under its feet.

According to local people, the Paramecium shaped lake existed for centuries with stoned wall around it. Some of them say that the wall around the lake was constructed in Buddhist era.

“The area is lush green with mysterious looking rocks of different shapes. The forests, the deep dales and the huge mountains with extremely serene environment give and ideal look to the tourists,” said Sajjad Ahmad, a trekker from Mingora, who visited the area for the first time.

The area, according to trekkers, is the best site for short trek. “One can reach the top in about two hours if he starts trekking from Zarrey village. The trek is beautiful as there are forests, huge rocks and beautiful terrain leading to the top,” said Faisal Saeed, another local trekker.

The area has some stylish features in architecture as its buildings made of stone masonry are closely connected to Gandhara architecture.

“Strategically the area has great importance as it overlooks the entire Swat valley. Apart from its natural beauty and serenity, the area’s architecture is really attractive. I must say that it is a replica of the great Gandharan stone architecture,” said Amjad Ali, who visited Sreysha Dup with his friends.

Apart from the beautiful stone masonry, there are plenty of huge rocks giving looks of animals and huge pillars of a castle while a tall watch tower like rock attracts tourists.

At the one side of the pasture, there are huge rocks in sitting posture as if to guard the lake looking at the southern part. “The Sreysha top is considered roof of the lower Swat where there was a small castle post before the modern Swat state era,” said Ayoub Jan, a local elder.

The trekkers and local residents said that the lake would be one of the first choices of trekkers and tourists across the country if it was promoted properly and government constructed a proper trekking line there.

Published in Dawn, November 15th, 2016