Swat, often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East," is a breathtaking destination that offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a plethora of adventures. NXC’s journey to Swat was not just a trip; it was an unforgettable experience filled with fun, exploration, and the perfect blend of nature and culture. The adventure began with the excitement of the road trip. Traveling with NXC made the journey even more enjoyable. The comfortable ride, engaging conversations, and the scenic views along the way set the perfect tone for what was to come. As we drove through the winding roads, the lush green valleys and towering mountains mesmerized us, making every moment feel like a postcard come to life. Once we arrived in Swat, the main attractions took our breath away. Our first stop was Mingora, where we visited the ancient ruins of the Udegram Buddhist Monastery. The history and architecture were fascinating, and NXC organized a knowledgeable guide who shared captivating stories about the site. Next, we headed to Malam Jabba, known for its ski resort. Although it wasn’t winter, the stunning views and the thrill of the chairlift ride were exhilarating. We laughed and snapped countless photos, creating memories that we would cherish forever. Another highlight was a visit to the mesmerizing Swat River. The crystal-clear water was inviting, and we took a moment to relax by the banks, enjoying a picnic arranged by NXC. The sound of the flowing river, combined with the laughter of friends, created a perfect atmosphere. We also explored the vibrant local markets, where we indulged in delicious street food and picked up unique handicrafts, adding a personal touch to our journey. As our trip came to an end, we reflected on the incredible experiences we shared. The combination of Swat's natural beauty and the fun-filled activities organized by NXC made this journey truly special. From breathtaking landscapes to cultural discoveries, every moment was filled with joy and adventure. I can't wait for our next trip, and I highly recommend everyone to explore the wonders of Swat!

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A Day of Adventure with NXC : Conquering Miranjani Peak Nestled in the heart of Pakistan’s beautiful Northern landscape, Miranjani Peak stands tall as an inviting challenge for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. On a bright September morning, the NUST Excursion Club embarked on a one-day trip to this awe-inspiring peak, promising an unforgettable experience for students craving a break from their academic routines. This day trip wasn’t just about hiking a mountain—it was about exploring new horizons, forging new friendships, and enjoying the serene beauty that nature has to offer. The Journey Begins The journey kicked off at dawn, with a group of eager students gathering at NUST ready to escape the hustle and bustle of university life. The trip to Miranjani, located near the picturesque town of Nathia Gali, took us through winding roads, green valleys, and quaint villages. The students’ excitement was palpable as they glimpsed their destination—Miranjani, towering at 9,200 feet, and ready to test their endurance. Hiking Miranjani: A Test of Endurance Upon arrival, the group took a moment to appreciate the refreshing cool mountain air and the sight of lush pine trees surrounding the trail. After a brief introduction to hiking safety and guidelines by the club’s experienced guides, the adventure officially began. The trek to the top of Miranjani spans about 5.5 kilometers, and while the trail is well-marked, the steep ascent presents a formidable challenge, especially for first-time hikers. However, every step was worth it. Along the way, the students were treated to breathtaking views of green hills rolling into the distance, wildflowers dotting the landscape, and the occasional wildlife sighting. The friendly atmosphere, mixed with plenty of encouragement and laughter, helped make the tough sections feel easier. Reaching the Summit: A Rewarding Experience After about two hours of steady hiking, the group reached the summit of Miranjani. Standing at the top, the panoramic views were nothing short of spectacular. The towering peaks of the Himalayas were visible in the distance, and the sight of rolling clouds far below gave a surreal feeling of standing on top of the world. The sense of accomplishment was shared by everyone, and the group paused to rest, sing songs, take photos,and enjoy the peaceful beauty that surrounded them. For many students, this was a moment of reflection—a reminder of the incredible natural beauty Pakistan offers and how important it is to connect with nature. Bonding Over a Shared Adventure Aside from the physical challenge, the trip was a great opportunity for students to bond. The NUST Excursion Club had carefully planned activities along the way to foster teamwork and friendship. The shared experience of hiking such a challenging peak naturally brought people together, whether through shared stories, teamwork on the trail, or simply motivating each other to keep going. Conclusion: A Day to Remember As the sun began to set and the group descended the trail, tired but exhilarated, it was clear that NXC had succeeded in delivering an unforgettable experience. For many, this trip was a much-needed escape from their studies, a chance to recharge in nature, and a reminder of the thrill of exploration. The Miranjani day trip was more than just a hike—it was a journey of self-discovery, teamwork, and appreciation of Pakistan’s natural beauty. As we made our way back to campus, the conversations were already filled with excitement for the next adventure, proving once again that NXC is all about creating memories that last a lifetime. If you’re a NUST student looking for your next adventure, keep an eye out for NXC’s upcoming trips. Who knows what incredible destination you’ll explore next?

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A Journey to Kashmir with NUST Excursion Club Our trip to Kashmir was a journey full of serene villages, stunning scenery, and life-changing experiences. We travelled from the busy NUST campus to the tranquil valleys of Kashmir, where the natural world never ceased to amaze us. We left NUST early and in a good mood, excited for the journey that lay ahead. Muzaffarabad, a city renowned for its advantageous location and breathtaking surroundings, was our first significant visit. The trip itself provided beautiful views of the meandering Jhelum River, so even though the stay was short, it set the tone for the days that followed. Dhani Waterfall-The Perfect Start Dhani Waterfall gave us our first authentic sense of nature. We enjoyed the views and sounds of water tumbling over rocks while surrounded by greenery at the waterfall, which was a refreshing break despite its modest size. It was a picturesque location that gave us a chance to relax after hours of travel. Some of us couldn’t resist dipping our feet into the cool water, while others simply soaked in the beauty around us. Upper Neelum: A Dream Valley We proceeded to our destination, Upper Neelum, which was the trip's highlight. With its emerald, green meadows and wooden homes dotting throughout the terrain, the valley was nothing less than a dream. Time seemed to have slowed down here, and the tranquilly was enthralling. As the afternoon sun shone on the Neelum River, which meandered down the valley, its glistening waters beckoned us to stop and admire the wonders of nature. We felt a connection between the inhabitants and their way of life as we strolled through the town, which hasn't been impacted by the modern world. In sharp contrast to our hectic city life, Upper Neelum's simplicity and tranquilly provided us with the tranquilly we had been longing for. Sharda: A Quick but Calm Pause For the following two days, Sharda served as our home, and although our visit was brief, it was enjoyable. We were able to slow down and enjoy the distinctive fusion of legacy and environment in this town, which is rich in history and cultural value. We went to the remains of the old temple and educational facility known as Sharda Peeth. As we explored the remains and imagined what life could have been like centuries ago, the history of this place was evident. Despite the short duration of our stay in Sharda, we were all impacted by the town's tranquilly and beauty. Arang Kel – The Hidden Gem Without a visit to Arang Kel, sometimes known as "heaven on earth," a journey to Kashmir would not be complete. It was difficult to walk to this remote settlement, but the scenery grew more and more spectacular as we ascended farther into the mountains. After climbing to the summit, we were rewarded with sweeping views of distant snow-capped peaks and verdant pastures. The village itself was charming, with its wooden cottages and blossoming wildflowers, making it seem as though it had been taken directly from a fairy tale. Here, we spent time exploring, hiking, and taking in the serene atmosphere that only Arang Kel can provide. For many of us, it was the highlight of the trip, offering an experience that was both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The Final Stop- Kutton Waterfall As we made our way back towards Muzaffarabad, we stopped at the Kutton Waterfall, a fitting end to our journey. The roar of the waterfall, combined with the mist in the air, made for a refreshing and energizing stop before we finally began our journey back to NUST. Final Thoughts This three-day excursion through Kashmir was much more than just a trip. It was an opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with nature in its purest form. From the thundering waterfalls to the quiet valleys, every moment of the journey was filled with beauty and wonder. The NUST Excursion Club gave us the chance to experience the heart of Kashmir, and we returned home with memories that will last a lifetime.

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