Khunjerab Pass and National Park
Khunjerab Pass is the world highest paved international border crossing at 4693 meters located in a protected National Park home to rare Marco Polo sheep and snow leopards.
ExploreChitral Gol National Park Lower Chitral
Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Overview
Located just 25 kilometers center-north of Chitral Town in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chitral Gol National Park is one of Pakistans most famous high-altitude wildlife sanctuaries. Spanning over 77 square kilometers of rugged Hindukush wilderness pine forests and alpine meadows the park sits at elevations ranging between 1450 and 5000 meters above sea level. Chitral Gol is world-renowned for providing a protected natural habitat to the endangered Kashmir Markhor Pakistans national animal housing one of the largest wild Markhor populations in existence. The park is also home to rare snow leopards Himalayan lynx Himalayan black bears Siberian ibex and over 120 species of indigenous and migratory birds including the majestic golden eagle. With its historic royal hunting lodge at Birmoghlasht breathtaking mountain vistas and pristine cedar and oak woodlands Chitral Gol is an exceptional destination for eco-tourists nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Highlights
- World-renowned wildlife sanctuary protecting the largest wild population of the endangered Kashmir Markhor
- Picturesque mountain landscape with rugged Hindukush peaks cedar forests and alpine meadows
- Home to rare high-altitude wildlife including snow leopards Himalayan lynx black bears and Siberian ibex
- Features the historic Birmoghlasht summer palace and former royal hunting lodge of the Mehtar of Chitral
- Spectacular panoramic views overlooking Chitral Valley Tirich Mir and surrounding mountain ranges
- Prime destination for eco-tourism nature trekking bird watching and professional wildlife photography
Things To Do
- Spot wild Markhor herds grazing on steep rocky cliffs during early morning or late afternoon
- Trek up to the historic Birmoghlasht summer palace for sweeping panoramic views of the entire valley
- Hike along scenic nature trails through ancient cedar oak and pine forests
- Enjoy high-altitude bird watching to spot golden eagles bearded vultures and Himalayan snowcocks
- Photograph stunning autumn colors dramatic mountain rock formations and pristine alpine landscapes
Local Transportation
Located 25 km from Chitral Town. Accessible via a 1.5 to 2-hour steep mountain drive using dedicated 4x4 jeeps or high-clearance 4WD vehicles.
Accommodation
Day-trip destination with primary hotel stays in Chitral Town. Forest rest houses and eco-lodges are available near the park entrance with advance Wildlife Department booking.
Food & Cuisine
Pack day snacks and water from Chitral Town. Enjoy traditional Chitrali meals green tea and fresh flatbread back in Chitral Town hotels.
Safety Information
Strict wildlife sanctuary rules apply. Maintain safe distance from wild animals, stay on marked trails, and obtain required permits at the Wildlife Checkpost.
Travel Tips
Hire a local wildlife guide and carry binoculars or a telephoto lens for Markhor spotting, wear sturdy hiking boots, and pack warm layers as high-altitude winds can drop temperatures quickly.