Machiara National Park

Machiara National Park is a mountainous protected area in the western Himalayas spanning more than 13,000 hectares with a mix of evergreen and deciduous forests. The terrain rises and falls with forested slopes and natural clearings that form the backbone of the landscape.

Pakistan established this protected area in 1996 to safeguard the wildlife and natural ecosystems found in the region. The designation reflected growing conservation efforts in the Himalayan zone.

Local communities near the park maintain traditional practices and share knowledge about indigenous plant species used in regional medicine and daily activities.

The park sits at higher Himalayan elevations, so sturdy footwear and layered clothing are essential since conditions can shift quickly. The warmer months offer the best visiting conditions when trails are more accessible and weather is more stable.

The area harbors rare animals like snow leopards and Kashmir musk deer that roam the mountain forests. Several bird species also call these forests home and are tracked by international conservation groups.

Location: Muzaffarabad District

Inception: 1996

GPS coordinates: 34.56086,73.60896

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:02