The history of Swat valley goes back to around 2000 years ago. It was known as Udyana and later the name was changed to Suvastu. The valley was a very peaceful area for living until the 11th century. The game of power led to the disruption the valley and it was first conquered by Mahmud of Ghazni. The ritual of acquiring the lands continued and Swat valley was then taken over by the Yusufzais.
In the time period of 19th century, swat valley was under Akhund Sahib who believed in the Muslim law. At this time, the economy of Swat valley flourished due to agriculture and it became one of the significant trading areas for businesses.
The population of Swat valley is around 1,257,602 and they have a number of cultural group living in which the most prominent ones are Pakhtuns, Yusufzais, Kohistanis, Gujars and Awans.
Swat Valley is known as the "mini Switzerland". Its landscapes are a proof of natural beauty and it was one of the most visited areas and had a major tourism industry. There were events which led to the downfall of the tourism which was one of the major sources of income of the Swats economy. The conflicts between the Taliban and the Pakistani army have effected the valleys attractions. The whole conflict started in 1990s when Sufi Muhammad, a cleric figure tried to impose the sharia law on the people of swat valley. In 2007, his son in law tried to follow his foot step by imposing the religion with strength of arms. The Pakistan army took control of the situation and in 2008 the war of Swat was put to an end. Another factor that also contributed in diminishing the tourism industry include the floods in 2010 in which most of the infrastructure was destroyed including the roads and bridges leading to difficulties in traveling to Swat valley.