Ayubia National Park: Hiking, Wildlife & Adventure

Ayubia National Park is a protected area in Pakistan’s Himalayan temperate forest near Nathia Gali. This national park covers an area of 3,312 hectares and is home to various bird and animal species. It is named after former President Ayub Khan and is known for its stunning natural beauty, scenic hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.

Seven villages and three towns surround Ayubia National Park, and it offers visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. This blog will provide readers with a detailed account of the park, including its history, management, picnic spots, and variety of wildlife. Let’s dive into it.

What is Ayubia National Park like?

One of the interesting things about Ayubia National Park is that it is found 8,000 feet above sea level. The park’s natural forest offers a pristine view of the lush green plains set against the backdrop of tall pine trees and steep mountain slopes. Exotic birds’ chirping echoes across the forest, giving visitors goosebumps as they trail through the park.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) designated Ayubia National Park as a national park in 1984, which continues to surprise visitors with its natural beauty. The park fulfills the IUCN’s criteria for a national park, which includes a land area of at least 1,000 hectares and non-exploitation of natural resources.

The park covers an area of 3,312 hectares and is managed by the KPK, aka Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department. The primary function of a national park is to conserve wildlife, flora, and fauna in its natural setting and habitat, which the national park has been doing since 1984.

Best Time To Visit Ayubia National Park

The best time to visit Ayubia National Park is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, also other outdoor activities in a not-so-harsh temperature. However, it is important to note that the park can be crowded during peak season, especially on weekends and public holidays.

You can also visit the park during the autumn and winter months. However, please note that the park is closed during the winter months from November to March due to heavy snowfall, which makes some trails inaccessible.

Things to Do In Ayubia National Park

Here are some of the things you can do while in Ayubia National Park:

1. Hiking

One of the main attractions of Ayubia National Park is hiking.  Ayubia National Park has a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult, offering something for hikers and for all skill levels. The park has several well-marked trails of varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

The most popular trail is the Pipeline Track, which is a 4 km walk along a water pipeline that runs through the park. The track offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a must-do for anyone visiting the park also, the Ayubia to Donga Gali trail, the Khanspur to Changla Gali trail, also the Mukshpuri Peak trail.

2. Wildlife Watching:

The Ayubia National Park is home to a variety of wildlife in it, Which includes Himalayan black bears, leopards, and monkeys. This park is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 100 species of birds found here, including the Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, White-cheeked bulbul, Himalayan monal, Kalij pheasant, and the White-throated Tit.

The best time to visit the park for wildlife watching is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the animals are most active.

• Himalayan black bears
• Leopards
• Monkeys
• Golden Eagle.
• Himalayan Griffon Vulture.
• White-cheeked Bulbul.
• Himalayan monal.
• Kalij pheasant.
• White-throated Tit.

3. Picnicking:

Picnicking in Ayubia National Park is a delightful experience that combines the joy of outdoor dining with natural beauty. The park offers a to much of picturesque spots for picnics and from lush meadows to chitchatting brooks and serene lakes. With its perfect surrounding and the cool breeze, Ayubia National Park is the perfect destination for spending quality time with loved ones while enjoying a picnic.

Visitors can also explore the park’s scenic hiking trails before settling down. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, picnicking in Ayubia National Park is an experience that you won’t want to miss.

Top picnic places:

• Dunga Gali Pipe Line Track..
• Mukshpuri Peak. Lookouts.
• Miranjani. Mountains.
• Kashmir Point.
• Thandiani. 
• Scenic Drives.
• Patriata Chair Lift.

4. Chairlift Ride:

A chairlift ride in Ayubia National Park is an activity for any nature lover who visiting the park. The chairlift takes its visitors on a scenic ride up the mountainside, which offers spectacular views of the park’s lush greenery also towering trees. As you will glide through the air, you’ll feel the cool breeze and the peacefulness of nature all around you.

The chairlift ride is a thrilling way to experience Ayubia National Park’s natural beauty and to make it a memorable highlight of any trip. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, a chairlift ride in Ayubia National Park experience will stay with you forever.

5. Camping:

Camping in Ayubia National Park is an unforgettable experience for those who love nature and the outdoors. The park offers a variety of camping, from designated campsites to backcountry camping in the wilderness.

Visitors can pitch their tents amidst the park’s scenic environment. listen to the sounds of nature and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The park’s serene atmosphere makes it the ideal place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Camping in the national park is an exciting way to experience the park’s natural beauty and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Adventure Activities

In addition to hiking and wildlife watching, the Ayubia National Park offers several adventure activities for its visitors. The park has a chairlift that takes visitors from one end of the park to the other end, offering wide views of the surrounding mountains.

There is a zipline that takes visitors on thrilling rides over the park’s forests and valleys. For those people who prefer water activities, There’s a small lake name Khurdopin located in the park where visitors can rent a paddle boat for a leisurely ride on the water. 

Accommodation

There are several accommodation options available in and around Ayubia National Park, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. The park also has several campsites where visitors can pitch their tents and spend the night under the stars.

Entry Requirements

Visitors to Ayubia National Park must obtain a permit from the park’s administration office, which is located at the park’s entrance. The permit fee is nominal to maintain the park’s facilities and wildlife.

• Take a Permit from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife.
• Follow the park’s rules and regulations.
• Carry appropriate gear.

In conclusion, Ayubia National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Pakistan. With its beautiful hiking trails, abundant wildlife, and thrilling adventure activities, the park offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore one of Pakistan’s most beautiful natural wonders!