Ayubia National Park – A Perfect Wildlife Getaway In Pakistan

Location and Overview

Ayubia is a hill station located in the Hazara district of Pakistan. It is one of the most toured destinations in Pakistan. Easily accessible through road links, Ayubia is situated at a height of about 8,000 feet above sea level. It was declared a national park in 1984 with the primary purpose of preserving the temperate forests. It is managed by the Wildlife and Parks Department of the local, provincial government. Ayubia National Park is home to an exquisite variety of flora and fauna. The park’s main attractions are its incredible scenic beauty and a full resort complex with a myriad of facilities making it a perfect getaway destination.

History and Geography

The hill station and the adjoining areas were designated as a national park in 1984 with an initial area of a little under 17 square kilometers (officially reported figure: 16.84 km2). However, soon, considering the excellent results of the protection program, it was extended to include additional land almost doubling its expanse now totally at 33.12 square kilometers. The climate is cold throughout the year with conditions getting harsh in the months of fall and subsequently the most extreme in winter. A large variety of terrains can be found with mountains, hills, pastures, springs and streams all making this relatively small park a thorough hub of exploration.

Habitat and Biodiversity

Ayubia is home to tall trees of temperate pine and coniferous forests which are its prime species under protection. The flora further comprises of over a hundred recorded and protected species of plants which are also used for medicinal properties and their applications as safe biological pesticides. The park is also home to threatened species of mammals, like the black bear and endangered leopards, as well as some rare species like the yellow-throated martens and civets. Over 200 varieties of birds can also be found here including eagles, griffin vultures, falcons, kestrels, pigeons, and doves. The park offers many vantage points for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Threats and Conservation

The park does not have any major threats and is rather a very well protected and well-maintained tourist attraction. The wildlife department and the tourism development corporation of Pakistan regularly collaborates for the well-being and upkeep of not only the flora and fauna but also the facilities. The World Wildlife Fund for Nature recently kicked off an ethno-botanical project in the park to establish the sustainable use of herbal resources for preserving biodiversity. Other minor threats to the ecosystem are mountain degradation by livestock overgrazing and timber harvesting by locals. Uncontrolled tourism is also a major cause of pollution local authorities have responded by putting a large number of signboards requesting visitors to take ownership and refrain from polluting the natural landscape.

Tourism

Ayubia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Pakistan. The most common activities undertaken at the park are trekking, hiking, mountain climbing, tree climbing, poaching and also camping. An old chairlift project which is still running is also an attraction but concerns for its safety have been raised every now and then. Ayubia is a fantastic refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides a great respite in the heart of a magnificent display of nature at its pristine best.

Written By: Bilal A. Usman, Pakistan