Peshawar and Swat Valleys Peshawar derives its name from the Sanskrit word Pushpapura , meaning the city of flowers. Peshawar is so old that its origins are lost in antiquity. Founded over 2,000 years ago by the Kushan Kings of Gandhara, it has had almost as many names as rulers. Hospitality reigns in this land of contrast and beauty. It is also a place where ancient tradition jostles with modernity, where the bazaar in the old city has changed little in the past hundred years except to become the neighbor of a modern university, some modern hotels, several international banks and one of the best museums in Pakistan.
Swat is an enchanting land of magni-ficent scenic beauty and rich historic past.
This is the land of enthralling beauty where Alexander the Great fought and won some of his major battles before crossing over to the plains of Northern Pakistan. Recent medical and dental exams should ensure that the traveler is in good health. Carry appropriate health and accident insurance documents and copies of any important medical records. Bring an adequate supply of all prescription and other medications as well as any necessary personal hygiene items, in-cluding a spare pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses. Foreigners are advised to be careful of their drinking water.