The guardian of many centuries of history, Chakdara has been an important center for the last 3500 years. Chakdara is littered with remains of the Gandhara grave culture, Buddhist sites, and Hindu Shahi forts. The ancient route from Afghanistan via Nawa Pass and Swat River crosses at Chakdara. The Mughals built a fort here, known as Chakdara Fort in 1586 – later occupied by the British in 1895. British built the present fort in 1896 and were forced to defend it during the Siege of Malakand in 1897.

This small picket on top of the hill is famous because an unknow Lieutenant named Winston Churchill – later became the prime minister of the superpower at the time United Kingdome – stayed here. When Winston Churchill became the Prime Minister of United Kingdome, the Picker was named after him- Churchill Picket and to date it’s called the same.  In 1895, Churchill a mere lieutenant accompanied by Malakand Field Force, spent a week in this picket. The picket was surrounded by a Lashkar of local tribesmen primarily Yousufzai defending their autonomy. The Picket, a watch tower, was constructed in 1885 at Chakdara during Frontier Wars exactly 10 years before Churchill stayed here as a war correspondent.

Churchill Picket is located in Dhakot Hills at Chakdara on the bank of River Swat. The picket was originally built as a war tool sitting on top of the hill as a watch tower. The picket is set on top of the hill in such a way that it overlooks 4 valleys at the same time. On the front is the Swat River on the right is the Malakand Agency on the back is the road leading to Timargarah, Lower Dir and on the left side is the Chakdara fort. This great historical building is full of history and is a huge source of information for historians and tourists interested in panoramic views of multiple valleys.

Although it’s not far from many Chakdara town with multiple restaurants and hotel, staying with local Korbah (Host) is the best way. A Rehbar (Guide) is highly recommended to enjoy the local areas, rich history and customs.