Today promised to be a long hilly ride to Mingora, capitol of Swat. After about 60 kms. came the police post and from here onward I had to have a police escort. It is because of the recent history of Swat that you can read about online.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2009/2/2/pakistani-taliban-rule-swat-valley
As was my experience in Kohistan, I, along with bicycle wizzed up the hills in different police vehicles. At about 27 kms. from Mingora the police came on a motorcycle and I was obliged to cycle that. Very annoying having that motorcycle up my behind.
I thought to head straight back from where I came but this morning I decided to press on farther up the valley. The Swat museum was excellent and the police patiently waited outside. I should add that everyone here is as friendly and respectful as everywhere I have been.
Some of my partners:
Some beautiful things in Swat Museum
