The Crown Jewel Of Galiyat—Mushkpuri Top

You’ve been scouring the depths of northern areas in Pakistan, from picturesque Hunza to captivating Skardu, to satiate your wandering soul. Yet, if you haven’t explored the serene Mushkpuri Top trail, then you are missing out—big time!

It’s time to add Mushkpuri Top to your bucket list and discover the crowning jewel of Galiyat Region. However, before you embark on any adventure, you must acquaint and orient yourself with the area’s geography, access, possible routes and so much more.

What To Expect On The Mushkpuri Trek

Hidden in the backyard of Capital City Islamabad, Mushkpuri Trail encompasses the wholesome vibe of the northern landscape. Mushkpuri Top in the Galiyat Region offers explorers a slice of heaven, with a glorious birds-eye view of Ayubia National Park, snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests. The floral meadows throughout the trail and lush greenery make for a breathtaking experience.

Mushkpuri Trek: The Basics

The trek to Mushkpuri Top can also be your first step to traveling and exploring Pakistan. Mushkpuri Top is located 2500 meters above sea level in the Abbottabad Region. It’s the second highest hill top of the Galiyat Region after Miranjani, with a three kilometer trek, depending on the route.

Who Should Opt For Mushkpuri Top?

Well, everyone should trek to Mushkpuri Top once in their lifetime. It’s a beginner friendly trail with both short and long routes.

So, depending on your preference and whether you are an adventurous soul, or an explorer looking for calm and serene views, you can opt for either a short or long hike.

The Hike To Mushkpuri Top

Now that you have gotten acquainted with the Mushkpuri Top basics, let’s get down to business. This section covers the two different routes available for hiking to Mushkpuri Top.

Nathia Gali Trek Route For Mushkpuri

The Mushkpuri Top distance from Nathia Gali is almost 4 kilometers. This is the easiest hiking route you can take to reach the hilltop, with an easy to moderate difficulty level.

The Nathia Gali is a bit long. But the natural surroundings, interesting flora, fauna, and easy to walk hiking trek makes the whole experience an extremely enjoyable affair.

The Mushkpuri trek that starts from Nathia Gali goes through the Lalazar Wildlife National Park. This trek is particularly easy to climb and recommended for beginners. The duration of your hike to the mountaintop depends on your pace. However, the average duration for the Nathia Gali-Mushkpuri Top is about 3-4 hours.

Dunga Gali Trek To Mushkpuri Top

The Dunga Gali-Mushkpuri Top hike is the perfect getaway for those who seek a thrill and adrenaline rush. This trek is 2.8 kilometers, very steep, with metal or cobblestone pathways and slippery patches.

If you want to save time, the Dunga Gali trek is the one for you. Depending on your pace, you can make it to the top in about 2.5 hours.

A word of advice!

No matter which hiking route to Mushkpuri Top you take, do not pace through it. You are hiking to the top, not racing towards it. So take breaks when you are short of breath.

Weather At The Mushkpuri Top

Many people wonder which weather conditions are better for hiking to the Mushkpuri Top. The good news is, you can hike to Mushkpuri in both winter and summer. Interestingly, the landscape completely transforms in both seasons, offering a diverse and unique experience.

What Should Be The Gear For Mushkpuri Hike?

Being prepared is half the battle when you are out hiking Mushkpuri Top. However, since the trek is of moderate difficulty level, you do not need advanced or professional gear. All you need for this trek is a good pair of non-slippery hiking boots and a portable hiking stick.

Especially in winters, these two objects are hiking essentials to keep you safe from possible injuries and falls. Additionally, it’s a great idea to carry an extra pair of socks to keep your feet dry throughout the hike.

Essential tip!

Since it’s a day trip, avoid carrying extra kilos on your shoulders and pack light.

What’s The View From Mushkpuri Top

The hike towards the Mushkpuri Top is picturesque, but the view from the hill is absolutely mesmerizing. Mushkpuri Top exposes the eastern view of KPK region. You can get a bird’s-eye view of Ayubia National Park, Bagh Valley in Azad Kashmir, Jhelum River and some parts of Murree City. Additionally, the Mushkpuri hill offers an extremely serene and peaceful environment. The area becomes even more magical when covered in snow, like fantasy land!

Is Camping At Mushkpuri Top Possible?

Mushkpuri hike is essentially a day trip. According to the latest policies, night camping at Mushkpuri Top is not allowed. If you head out early in the morning from Islamabad or Nathia Gali, you can make a perfect leisure trip throughout the day and get back before nightfall.

Additionally, other factors that discourage camping on Mushkpuri is the lack of water supply, restroom facilities on the top, and absence of any authorities.

What Can You Do At Mushkpuri Top? (If not camp)

At the end of Mushkpuri hike, you have access to the beautiful meadows and snow capped hills. The sooner you start the expedition from Dunga Gali or Nathia Gali, the more time you can spend on the top. In summers you can spend hours soaking in the naturesque views and marvelous blue skies. Plus, a cup of hot tea makes the whole experience all the more delightful!

The Mushkpuri Top also attracts tourists and groups for its snowfall and snow covered meadows. So, if you are on a budget, a day trip to Mushkpuri Top to experience the snow is a great idea.

Frequently Ask Questions