Malakand

Malakand is a region in northwestern Pakistan, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It centers on Malakand District and encompasses surrounding valleys along the Swat River. The name is also used for the historical Malakand Agency, a tribal area that formed part of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas before the 2018 merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Geography and administration: The area lies in the foothills of the Hindu Kush. The Malakand Pass is a historic mountain route that connects the Peshawar Plain with the Swat Valley. Malakand District has its administrative center at Chakdara and is subdivided into several tehsils and local jurisdictions.

Demographics and economy: The population is predominantly Pashtun, with Pashto as the common language. The economy relies on agriculture, horticulture, and cross-border trade, with markets and markets towns serving as local hubs. The Swat River supports irrigation and farming in the region, contributing to orchards and crop production.

History and landmarks: Malakand has a long history within the Gandharan cultural sphere and later featured prominently in British colonial campaigns in the late 19th century. The area includes fortifications such as Malakand Fort near the pass, which remain as historical landmarks. Since the merger of FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2018, Malakand is integrated into the provincial administrative framework while retaining its regional distinctiveness.