Among many, Mushkpuri Top, a beautiful hiking trek in Pakistan, sees the most tourists every year. The Mushkpuri is derived from the Sanskrit language and has the literal meaning of “place of peace and tranquility”.
Just like the name, the place is a peacekeeping site with greenery and scenery pleasing to any eye that sees it. At an altitude of 9200 feet, this top is an amazing holiday destination for all hiking and trekking lovers.
The hiking tracks are surrounded by immense pine trees that add to the beauty of the place. Being a site of attraction, it is a great tourism source in Pakistan.
Planning a trip to Mushkpuri Top? Here is everything you need to know before you go there.
Location of Mushkpuri Top
Being the second-highest peak in Galiyat, finding Mushkpuri top is not a hard task. It is situated 90 kilometers north of Islamabad. When in Ayubia National Park’s Nathia Gali section, you can find the route to Mushkpuri top near Dunga Gali.
The top lies in the Abbottabad district and is considered the beauty of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Tourists from all over the country travel to Mushkpuri Top-A beautiful hiking trek in Pakistan, and enjoy the adventure that comes along with it.
Mushkpuri Top Height
The top is the second-highest peak in Galiyat. The estimated height of the mountain is said to be 9452 m/3150 m above sea level.
Being at the height, the trekkers get to see the top view of the entire region. The path is lined with wildflowers and trees, making the journey more interesting.
The Mushkpuri Hiking Trek
The hike to Mushkpuri top begins near Nathiagali. It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to reach the point of trekking/hiking. There is only a single road that goes straight to Mushkpuri.
If you are a healthy and fast-paced hiker, the trek will take approximately 1.5 hours for you to reach the top. However, the time varies, depending on the path you choose or the speed you choose.
Note: There are several rest points on your way to the top too. So if you get tired, you can rest.
Main Approaches
3 major routes will take you to the Mushkpuroi top-A beautiful hiking trek in Pakistan. Each route will take a different time, with varying levels of difficulty.
- Dunga Gali Hiking Trek
- Ayubia Hiking Trek
- Lalazar Hiking Trek
Dunga Gali Hiking Trek
The hiking trek that starts from the Dunga Gali is the most famous one. It is the shortest among the three. The entire path is covered in deep pine trees. You will also encounter several meadows on your way to the top.
Moreover, you can see the thrilling views of the Jehlum River, Azad Kashmir, and more on the top.
Distance
From Dunga Gali Bazar, it takes two hours to hike
Ayubia Hiking Trek
Ayubia is another path from where you can reach the top. The path is full of breathtaking sites to see and wildlife to cherish. You might encounter different kinds of birds on your way too.
The trees and flowers here will make the surroundings refresh you. Since it is a comparatively long track, you will find many rest points on your way.
Distance
From Ayubia Hiking Trek, it takes approximately 3 hours to reach the top.
Lalazar Hiking Trek
People love this track as you reach Lalazar park on your way and get can get yourself some snacks. This track is however said to be a little hard. Although adventure seekers go on this track throughout the year.
When here, you can rest in the park and see some wildlife. This park is also good for your kids, if you are traveling with your family.
Distance
From Lalazar Hiking Trek, it takes approximately 3.5 hours to reach the top.
Distance Of Mushkpuri Top From Different Cities
Islamabad
The total distance between Mushkpuri from Islamabad is 85 kilometers. You can reach here in approximately 2.5 hours.
The distance shortens if you are traveling through Kashmir road (81.6 km). You can expect to reach Mushkpuri in about 2h 23 minutes via this route.
Lahore
The total distance between Mushkpuri from Lahore is 453.8 kilometers. You can reach here in approximately 6h 34 min. The best route is through Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M-2)
Tip: It is better to come to Islamabad a day before so you don’t spend your entire day traveling.
Rawalpindi
The total distance between Mushkpuri from Rawalpindi is 94.1 kilometers. You can reach here in approximately 2h 53 min if you are traveling via Kashmir road.
Peshawar
The total distance between Mushkpuri from Peshawar is 241.5 kilometers. You can reach here in approximately 3h 53 min if you are traveling via Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1).
(Note: The time might differ depending on your speed and traffic conditions.)
Pipeline Track Route
A track from Dunga Gali to Ayubia is called Pipeline Track. This track leads to the Mushkpuri top as well. It is known as the pipeline track because there is a pipeline under the track that is the source of water supply to Ayubia and Dunga Gali.
The total distance of this track is almost 4 km and takes around 50 minutes to complete. Being at a height of 8,200 feet, the track is best to enjoy sunsets.
It is a straight track with no hike thus many people love walking on it. The path from here which leads to the Mushkpuri top is however steep.
Enjoy the rain, clouds, and fog on the mesmerizing pipeline track.
Common Birds In Sight
- Yellow Beaked Magpie
- Red Blood
- Yellow Body Bees
- White Forest
- Crested Gray Finch
Mushkpuri Top Weather
Mushkpuri top-A beautiful hiking trek in Pakistan is blessed with all four seasons and gloom differently in every season. The top is hot during summer.
Being at a high altitude, the sun’s rays are hitting the surface directly and cause head. Winters are however different. The entire peak is covered in snow.
Autumn and spring are comparatively pleasant seasons. Neither heat nor cold is hard to bear.
Average Temperature: Mushkpuri’s average temperature ranges from 20 degrees to -6 degrees.
Best Time To Visit Mushkpuri Top
Although people visit the top throughout the year, the best time to visit is summer and spring. The weather during this time is pleasant.
Snow starts falling here in December and January. Depending on the density of snow, the track is sometimes closed for hikes.
(Note: Summer is the peak time so book your hotels before coming.)
Additional Activities To Do
If you are not a fan of hiking, Travel Guide Ideas has a list of the best things to do in Mushkpuri.
Visit Lalazar Park
The park is the best way to spend your time in Mushkpuri. You might not want to do all the hike but you can still feel close to nature via this park.
There are small shops from where you can buy refreshments things while your family plays around.
Explore The Galiyat
While your family is hiking, you can spend your time exploring the nearby areas. The best thing to explore is nearby Galiyat (eg; Nathia Gali, Dunga Gali).
Visit The Markert
No need to hike to the top when you can go to the market. There are plenty of shops in the main markets of the nearby areas which you can explore instead of hiking.
Mushkpuri Top Trek In Snow
Winter season is not completely recommended for hiking as the path is slippery. Because of the heavy snow, it may be dangerous for you to go on the path. However, it is not completely prohibited.
The professionals can still go up the path (at their own risk). Being covered in snow and slippery, the travel time makes increases. You may need to travel for two to two and a half hours to reach the top of the mountain.
Although a little risky, the majestic view is worth it. You can see the snow-covered mountains and trees on your way. The cinematic view of foggy peaks is worth the extra effort.
(Tip: When hiking in snow, keep a hiking stick for support)
Read more: TOP PLACES TO SEE SNOWFALL IN PAKISTAN
Things To Carry On Trek
Hiking Sticks
Hiking sticks are an important support for hiking. It is easy to get these sticks from your hometown. They are also available near the roadside. They come in handy for downward trekking and in snow.
Food
Since the hike is long and tiring, it is wise to carry some snacks with you on the way. It will allow you to keep your energy levels normal.
(Tip: Carry chocolate or an energy drink for the energy booster.)
Shoes
Having comfortable shoes is a really important part of your trip. You can not expect your feet to give comfort on a bumpy track if you are not wearing appropriate shoes.
Warm Clothes
Being at a height, the weather might be cold for you. The nights are especially cold so keep something warm yourself.
Umbrella
The weather here is unpredictable and might start raining anytime. Therefore it is wise to keep an umbrella with you. It will also save you from the harmful rays of the sun if you are sensitive to it.
Water bottle
While going upwards, it is natural you will get tired and feel thirsty. Therefore it is suggested to keep a water bottle with you. You won’t find any canteens on your way.
(Tips: Do not drink too much water. It will affect your climbing capacity.)
Where To Stay And Eat
Mentioned below are a few places where you can stay if you are traveling for more than a day. You can also find good food here.
- Alpine Hotel & Resort
- Hotel Elites Nathia Gali
- Summer Retreat Hotel
- Lemon Lodges
Final Words
Mushkpuri Top is one of the most loved hiking tracks due to being close and easy to approach. The hiking might be difficult for some people but due to the rest point, it is not impossible. You will even find kids doing the hike on your way.
Due to the spectacular scenery and views, the hike is refreshing no matter how tired are you. The vacation to this top is good for you will get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Galiyat too.
FAQs
How difficult is Mushkpuri hiking?
A distance of almost four kilometers separates Mushkpuri Top from Nathia Gali. The difficulty level differs from easy to difficult. However, it does not require only professionals to do the hike.
What is the height of the Mushkpuri Top?
The approximate height of the Mushkpuri top is 9200 feet in the Abbottabad District.
Which is the shortest route to Mushklpuri Top?
The shortest hiking track to Mushkpuri top is Dunga Gali Track. It takes approximately 2 hours to reach the top from here.
Is it safe to travel to Mushkpuri in snowfall?
The track during snowfall is a little dangerous. Due to the heavy snowfall, it turns slippery. However, if you take precautions, reaching the top is not impossible.
What are the ways to reach the Mushkpuri top?
You can reach Mushkpuri top either through a hike. If hiking is not your thing, you can take a horse ride to the top.
Is Mushkpuri a good place for camping?
If you want to camp on Mushkpuri and admire the night view from the top, it is allowed. You might have to carry the camping gear with you to the top.
Can cars go to Mushkpuri Top?
No vehicles can go to Mushkpuir Top. You can take your cars to Dunga Gali/Nathia Gali. From there you will have to walk to Mushkpuri top.