Pakistan, a land of unparalleled beauty, is home to an impressive collection of national parks that showcase the country’s rich biodiversity. From dense forests to rugged mountain ranges, these protected areas offer a window into the remarkable natural wonders that Pakistan has to offer. Join us on an exhilarating journey as we explore the top 10 national parks in Pakistan, each boasting its own unique charm and allure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an avid nature lover, these national parks promise an unforgettable adventure filled with awe-inspiring sights and encounters with remarkable wildlife.
Khunjerab National Park:
Touching the Sky with Majestic Mountains Nestled in the Karakoram Range, Khunjerab National Park is a mesmerizing blend of towering peaks, alpine meadows, and rare wildlife. It’s a sanctuary for elusive snow leopards and the endangered Marco Polo sheep. Trekking its rugged terrains offers an unforgettable experience that nature lovers will cherish.
Broghil National Park:
Where Lush Valleys Meet Crystal-Clear Lakes Enter the captivating wilderness of Broghil National Park, adorned with lush green valleys and crystal-clear lakes. This park is a haven for migratory birds and supports the unique Wakhi culture. Trek along ancient Silk Road routes and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Himalayan landscape.
Deosai National Park:
The Dreamlike Plateau of Beauty Deosai National Park presents a dreamscape with its vast plateau, often referred to as the “Land of Giants.” The park springs to life during spring with a burst of colorful wildflowers and is also home to the brown bear. Camping beneath the star-studded sky in Deosai is an experience that will forever hold a place in your heart.
Hingol National Park:
Witnessing Wildlife in a Unique Landscape Prepare to be captivated by the distinctive rock formations and diverse ecosystems of Hingol National Park. The hauntingly beautiful landscape serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like the Baluchistan bear. Exploring the park’s mysterious mud volcanoes and rugged terrain promises a thrilling adventure.
Central Karakoram National Park:
Skardu’s Enchanting Beauty Skardu’s Central Karakoram National Park is a paradise for mountaineers and explorers. With dramatic landscapes, glistening glaciers, and pristine lakes, the park offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature’s grandeur. Traverse the famous Baltoro Glacier and be awed by the majesty of K2, the world’s second-highest peak.
Margalla Hills National Park:
A Gem of Nature Near the Capital Nestled near the capital city Islamabad, Margalla Hills National Park is a perfect escape for urban dwellers. Its tranquil trails lead to refreshing waterfalls and offer panoramic views of the city below. The park teems with diverse bird species and vibrant flora, providing a serene retreat for those seeking solace in nature.
Shandur National Park:
Convergence of Culture and Nature Experience the harmonious blend of nature and culture at Shandur National Park. Known as the “Roof of the World,” it hosts the exhilarating Shandur Polo Festival. The park’s pristine lakes and rolling meadows create a backdrop that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
Astola Island:
Coastal Beauty and Marine Life For a distinctive coastal adventure, set your sights on Astola Island. Pakistan’s only offshore island is a haven for marine life and seabirds. Snorkel through turquoise waters, explore hidden caves, and bask in the serenity of this secluded gem.
Toli Pir National Park:
Rawalakot’s Hidden Treasure Tucked away in the Poonch District, Toli Pir National Park is a hidden treasure trove of beauty. Its lush forests, vibrant flowers, and cool climate make it a delightful getaway. The park’s viewpoint offers a panoramic spectacle of surrounding valleys and the shimmering River Jhelum.
Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park:
Unique Flora and Fauna Our journey concludes with Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park, a biodiversity hotspot in Baluchistan. The park is a sanctuary for the rare Afghan urial and other desert-adapted wildlife. Marvel at the twisted juniper trees and rugged terrain that depict nature’s resilience.
Amidst urban landscapes, Pakistan’s national parks stand as reminders of Earth’s unspoiled beauty. Each park showcases the country’s rich biodiversity and offers a haven for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on a journey of discovery through these 10 remarkable national parks in Pakistan. Your soul will thank you for the connection to nature’s marvels.
Faqs:
How Many national parks are in Pakistan?
As elsewhere national parks have immense significance for ecological stability in Pakistan. There are 21 national parks in Pakistan covering 29,589 square kilometers, constituting 3 percent of the total area. Lal Sohanra was the first national park established in Pakistan in 1972. The minimum size required for national parks is 1000 acres.
What are the names of 10 national parks?
- Margallah Hills National Park: Islamabad, established 1980, area 15,883 ha.
- Hazarganji Chiltan National Park: Balochistan, established 1980, area 15,555 ha.
- Hingol National Park: Balochistan, established 1997, area 6, 19,043 ha.
- Kirthar National Park: Sindh, established 1974, area 3, 08,733 ha.
- Ayubia National Park: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, established 1984, area 3,122 ha.
- Chitral Gol National Park: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, established 1984, area 7,750 ha.
- Sheikh Badin National Park: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, established 1999, area 15,540 ha.
- Saiful Maluk National Park: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, established 2003, area 12,026 ha.
- Lulosar Dodipat National Park: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, established 2003, area 75,058 ha.
- Broghil Valley National Park: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, established August 25, 2010, Area 134,744ha
How many national parks are there in Gilgit Baltistan?
Gilgit Baltistan is endowed with a beautiful natural landscape and dynamic ecosystem. To preserve biodiversity and sustains it, the government has erected multiple national parks in Gilgit Baltistan. These include:
- Khunjerab National Park: Gilgit-Baltistan, established 1975, area 2, 27,143 ha.
- Hunderab Shandoor National Park: Gilgit-Baltistan, established 1993, size 1, 65,000 ha.
- Deosai National Park: Gilgit-Baltistan, established 1993, size 3, 63,600 ha.
- Central Karakoram National Park: Gilgit-Baltistan, established 1993, area 9,73,845 ha
- Cucumber National Park: Gilgit-Baltistan, established August 2, 2011, place 74,000 ha
Which is the most dangerous and adventurous national park in Pakistan?
Hingol national park is one of the most exotic and hospitable places in the country, located 190 kilometers away from Karachi. This beautiful park boasting over a portion of the country’s most delightful landscape could hold the cure to tourism starved Pakistan for it is a place teeming with wildlife, mud volcanoes, rugged rock formations and most importantly its adjacency to the beach only further ensures that it’s a place hard to miss.
The park’s beauty rivals that of the likes of Yellow stone park in the US and with a harsh climate along the Makran beach, the park is as perfect as it can get for all sorts of adventure seekers, hikers, cyclists along with beach lovers. And if you are a wildlife photographer, then this is the perfect place for you for this park not only contains a serene landscape, but its vast reservoir of the rarest of wildlife creatures too makes it a place of global significance.
The noble bird Houbara, marsh crocodiles, green marine turtles, threatened species of fish including Mahasheer, Plumbeous, dolphins, ibexes, Urials, and Chinkaras add to the beauty of the park.
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