Serena Hotel Swat, long regarded as a symbol of luxury, heritage, and tourism in the Swat Valley, officially closed its doors on January 1, 2026, bringing to an end more than four decades of service to dignitaries, travelers, and history enthusiasts.
Serena Hotels Pakistan confirmed the closure in an official statement, expressing deep gratitude to all those who supported the hotel’s mission of showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Swat. “This hotel has always been more than just accommodation. It has been a symbol of the valley’s culture, history, and tourism potential,” the statement noted.
At the heart of the property lies the historic Wazir House, originally constructed in 1936 as the office of the Wazir (minister) of the former State of Swat. The building later served as a government guesthouse and was subsequently transformed into the prestigious Swat Hotel, hosting prominent global dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.
A new hotel block was later developed on more than 44 kanals of land, and in 2014, the Wazir House was fully integrated into the Serena Hotel complex. Serena Hotels assumed management of the property in 1985 under a 30-year lease, later extended, and transformed it into one of Pakistan’s most iconic hospitality landmarks.
According to the Director General of Tourism, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the lease has now expired and Serena Hotels opted not to renew it. “The hotel’s current market rent would be approximately Rs 40–50 million per month, whereas Serena wished to continue under the old lease terms. The government has won all related court cases, and the lease expiry is the sole reason for the closure. A fresh tender will be issued soon,” he stated.
Initially leased in the mid-1980s for approximately Rs 600,000 per month, the 46-kanal property is now estimated to generate Rs 84–85 crore annually, making it a significant revenue-generating asset for the provincial government.
Nestled amid lush greenery, towering trees, and expansive gardens, Serena Hotel Swat captivated visitors from across the globe. Its seamless blend of historic architecture, tranquil surroundings, and refined hospitality offered guests a rare window into the valley’s rich history and natural splendor—an experience that will be fondly remembered as the hotel closes this historic chapter.
