Mushkpuri Travel Guide
“The second highest peak in the Galyat Region”
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. “
(Albert Einstein)
In a Glimpse:
Mushkpuri is one of the most famous tops, and the best place to visit that lies in KPK province of our beautiful country Pakistan. The mesmerizing sights of this place can refresh your mind and soul. Mushkpuri is from the origin of Sanskrit that means “a place of quietness and peace.”
It is a 2,800-meter (9,200-ft) mountain in the Nathia Gali Hills, located in Abbottabad District.
One of the main attractions of Mushkpuri is hiking or trekking.
Location:
It is located 90 kilometers (56 miles) north of Islamabad in the Nathia Gali section of Ayubia National Park, immediately above Dunga Gali.
How to get to the top:
The hike to Mushkpuri top typically takes about 2 to 3 hours one way, depending on your pace and fitness level. The trail is approximately 4 kilometers long and is considered a moderate hike.
The climb from Nathia Gali on the mountain’s western side is a steady 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) ascent. On the Dunga Gali side of the hill, a steep route leads to the bird park.
The hike to the peak is breathtaking. It is lush with greens and brimming with fragmented flowers, like a flower carpet.
Moreover, this trail has a beautiful diversity of trees and flowers. The view from the top is incredibly calm and soothing.
In addition, you can take a horse ride as well to the summit instead of walking if you start your journey at Dunga Gali Bazaar.
Major Routes:
There are three major routes to the top of Mushkpuri Hill, which are as follows:
1.Dungagali Trackway.
2.Lalazar Trackway.
3. Ayubia Trackway.
Although Dungagali is the shortest track, it takes only one hour to climb this mountain, whereas others take much longer.
Pipeline Track:
Dungagali to Ayubia Track leads to Mushkpuri Top. This track is called the ‘Pipeline Track’.
This trail follows the pipeline for 4 kilometers from Dunga Gali to Ayubia. With a height of around 8,200 feet, this straight walking course takes 40 to 50 minutes to complete.
Hence, you can enjoy natural wonders such as rain, fog, clouds, and gorgeous sunsets.
Furthermore, the Yellow Beaked Magpie, Red Blood and Yellow Body Finches, White Cheek or Crested Grey Finch, and various other birds are the most frequently seen species on the way to the Mushkpuri Top.
Where to stay and eat:
Alpine Hotel & Resort, Hotel Elites Nathia Gali, Summer Retreat Hotel, and Lemon Lodges are the best hotels to stay and eat.
Essential Things to Bring for a Hill Walk:
● Trouser with shirt/ T-shirt
● Joggers boots (with good hold up).
● Walking Stick (used especially during downward trekking).
● Water Bottle
● Snacks and eatables
Weather:
The weather in Mushkpuri varies according to the seasons. Mushkpuri is snow-capped in the winter. The gorgeous green plains are entirely covered with snow. In addition, the majestic icy mountains are a pleasure to behold. Also, a fascinating and alluring panorama of snowy peaks with foggy mornings and blooming sunsets is breathtaking. There is snowfall in Mushkpuri during the winter months, typically from December to February. The area becomes a winter wonderland with snow-covered trails and trees, offering a picturesque and serene hiking experience. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially slippery conditions during this time.
“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” – Anthony Bourdain.
