Malakandi National Park

Malakandi Overview

Malakandi National Park, locally known as ملاکنڈی نیشنل پارک, is a newly established protected area in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Covering approximately 254 square miles (660 square kilometers), the park lies near the Kaghan Valley and stretches across the western Himalayan foothills.

Officially declared a national park in 2022, Malakandi was created to preserve its rich forest ecosystems and diverse wildlife while promoting sustainable tourism and conservation in the region. Its elevation, forest cover, and proximity to major valleys make it a key area for ecological preservation.

The terrain of Malakandi National Park consists of steep hills, deep ravines, and forested slopes that descend into narrow valleys and stream-fed gorges. Elevations vary, creating a mix of ecological zones ranging from sub-tropical pine forests to temperate broadleaf woodlands.

These forests are primarily composed of chir pine, oak, and other hardwood species that support a dense understory of shrubs and herbs. Seasonal flowering plants and moss-covered rocks give the park a rich, vibrant appearance during spring and summer, while snow in higher regions adds a serene quality in winter.

Wildlife in Malakandi National Park is diverse and includes several significant species native to the western Himalayan region. Key mammals include the common leopard, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, rhesus macaque, and yellow-throated marten.

These species find refuge in the thick forest canopy and steep terrain. Birdlife is equally notable, with species such as the kalij pheasant, Himalayan monal, chakor, and a variety of thrushes and warblers found throughout the park. Reptiles, amphibians, and numerous invertebrates also thrive in the damp forest floor and stream corridors, making the park a haven for biodiversity.

Though still under development, Malakandi National Park offers scenic views, quiet forest trails, and the promise of becoming a premier eco-tourism destination. Its proximity to the popular Kaghan Valley enhances its appeal, and visitors drawn to the region’s natural beauty may find in Malakandi a quieter, less-traveled alternative.

Cascading streams, waterfalls, and mossy rocks offer photographic opportunities, while the dense woods provide ideal settings for wildlife observation and nature appreciation.

Visitors can engage with the park through hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching, with local guides enhancing the experience through knowledge of flora and fauna. As infrastructure improves, additional trails and visitor facilities are expected to become available, encouraging low-impact tourism.

Educational tours and conservation outreach programs are also part of the long-term vision for the park, aimed at fostering awareness and respect for the area’s natural resources.

Malakandi National Park was established in response to increasing threats to forest cover, wildlife habitat, and biodiversity in the region. Conservation goals include the protection of critical species and the restoration of degraded forest zones.

One of the challenges the park faces is balancing development and tourism with habitat preservation. However, its recent designation has sparked new interest from environmental organizations and government agencies.

Through active management, community engagement, and continued support, the park has the potential to emerge as a successful model for conservation in northern Pakistan.

Park Map

Malakandi National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

The mixed forests, hilly slopes, and river valleys of Malakandi National Park offer critical habitat for a wide variety of bird species. Both resident and migratory birds are drawn to the park’s lush vegetation and natural water sources.

Himalayan Monal
This brightly colored pheasant is one of the most spectacular birds in the park. Males shine with iridescent blues, greens, and reds, while females are camouflaged brown for nesting protection.

Koklass Pheasant
Shy and well-camouflaged, the koklass pheasant forages on the forest floor. It is more often heard than seen, emitting sharp whistles from dense undergrowth.

Slaty-headed Parakeet
This sleek green parrot with a slate-colored head is a noisy and social species, flying in small flocks and feeding on fruit, seeds, and tree buds.

Himalayan Woodpecker
A black, white, and red woodpecker that drills into tree bark in search of insects. Its rhythmic tapping is often heard before the bird is seen.

Verditer Flycatcher
This small, eye-catching songbird is coated in bright turquoise plumage. It frequents open forest patches, perching on low branches to sally after flying insects.

White-throated Laughingthrush
This forest-loving bird travels in chattering flocks, rummaging through leaf litter for insects and seeds. Its brown back and white throat make it easy to recognize.

Blue Whistling Thrush
A deep blue bird known for its strong, melodious call, the blue whistling thrush prefers rocky streams and forest edges, where it feeds on invertebrates and snails.

Grey-hooded Warbler
A small, energetic warbler with a yellow body and grey cap, it is usually seen flitting through low branches in search of insects.

Crested Kingfisher
A striking, black-and-white kingfisher with a shaggy crest, it is often seen near rivers and streams where it dives to catch fish and aquatic insects.

Oriental Turtle Dove
With its soft coo and scaly feather pattern, the oriental turtle dove is commonly seen foraging on the ground in open areas and forest edges, feeding on seeds and grains.

Malakandi National Park, located in the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is a recently declared protected area known for its diverse terrain of dense forests, valleys, and high-altitude slopes. This richly biodiverse park supports a range of iconic Himalayan and sub-Himalayan wildlife, many of which depend on its forest cover and steep landscapes.

Leopard
The apex predator of the park, the leopard is stealthy and territorial, often hunting deer, wild boar, and smaller mammals. Though rarely seen, its presence is indicated by tracks and claw marks on trees.

Himalayan Black Bear
Recognizable by its white chest patch, the Himalayan black bear is a powerful omnivore that feeds on berries, roots, and insects. It roams forested slopes and hibernates during the harsh winter months.

Rhesus Macaque
This adaptable primate lives in social troops and is often seen near water sources or human settlements. It feeds on fruits, seeds, insects, and occasionally crops.

Yellow-throated Marten
With its striking yellow underside and agile movement, the yellow-throated marten is a skilled predator of birds, small mammals, and eggs. It is frequently active during the day and moves easily through trees.

Indian Crested Porcupine
A nocturnal rodent with sharp quills used for defense, the Indian crested porcupine forages at night for roots, fruits, and bulbs, leaving visible signs of its digging in soft ground.

Wild Boar
Strong and hardy, wild boars move in small groups through dense undergrowth. They root around in the soil for tubers, insects, and other food, playing a significant role in soil turnover.

Red Fox
This intelligent and opportunistic predator has a thick reddish coat and a bushy tail. It feeds on rodents, birds, fruits, and occasionally scavenges near villages.

Himalayan Weasel
A fast, slender-bodied carnivore, the Himalayan weasel hunts small prey such as rodents and reptiles. It is agile and active, often seen darting through rocks and underbrush.

Jungle Cat
This wild cat prefers dense cover and wetlands within the park. It hunts birds, rodents, and amphibians, usually during twilight hours.

Indian Pangolin
Nocturnal and covered in armored scales, the Indian pangolin feeds primarily on ants and termites. Its digging ability and secretive habits make it difficult to observe in the wild.