Gumot National Park

Gumot Overview

Ghamot National Park, also known as Gumot National Park, is located in the Neelum District of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Covering an area of approximately 105 square miles (272 square kilometers), the park is part of the western Himalayan ecosystem, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The terrain is rugged and mountainous, featuring deep valleys, alpine meadows, and dense forests of coniferous and broadleaf trees. Among the prominent plant species are West Himalayan spruce, Himalayan white pine, and Pashtun juniper, which contribute to the park’s lush, green scenery. The park’s varying elevations provide an incredible mix of habitats, from lower-elevation forests to high-altitude meadows that bloom with colorful wildflowers during the warmer months.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including several threatened and rare species. Among the most notable mammals found in Ghamot National Park are the Himalayan brown bear and the elusive musk deer, both of which are under conservation concern due to habitat loss and poaching. Other large mammals include the common leopard, Himalayan ibex, and Kashmir gray langur, while smaller species such as the red fox and yellow-throated marten also inhabit the region.

Birdwatchers can expect to see an array of fascinating avian species, including the golden eagle, Himalayan vulture, bearded vulture, and the pallid harrier. The park’s high-altitude environment makes it an important sanctuary for birds of prey and migratory species that rely on its undisturbed wilderness.

Visitors to Ghamot National Park can experience its natural beauty through several activities that highlight its diverse ecosystems. Trekking is one of the most popular ways to explore the park, as trails wind through thick forests, open meadows, and scenic ridges that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Birdwatching enthusiasts can take advantage of the park’s rich avifauna, while nature photography offers endless opportunities to capture the striking landscapes and wildlife in their natural habitats. For those seeking tranquility, the park’s remote setting provides an escape from urban life, with pristine air and peaceful surroundings.

Like many protected areas in the Himalayas, Ghamot National Park faces conservation challenges, particularly related to habitat degradation and illegal hunting. However, efforts have been made to strengthen conservation initiatives, including community engagement programs and habitat restoration projects.

The park is part of broader conservation efforts that aim to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and its biodiversity. Organizations working in the region have focused on promoting sustainable tourism and responsible wildlife management to ensure the park remains a thriving habitat for its native species.

Park Map

Gumot National Park Highlights

Wildlife

The Ghamot National Park, also spelled Gumot, is a high-altitude national park located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Established in 2004, the park plays a crucial role in conserving the region’s unique biodiversity, particularly species adapted to the Himalayan environment. Below are some of the more popular species that inhabit Ghamot National Park.

Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus)
A threatened species, the Himalayan brown bear is one of the park’s most significant inhabitants. The park provides a connected habitat for these bears, linking populations across northern Pakistan, including those in Deosai National Park and Musk Deer National Park.

Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus leucogaster)
This small, elusive deer is known for the musk gland found in males, which has been historically valuable in perfumery. The species is threatened due to poaching and habitat loss, and Ghamot National Park offers a sanctuary for its conservation.

Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)
An elusive and endangered predator, the snow leopard inhabits the park’s rugged terrains, preying on species like the Himalayan ibex and blue sheep. Conservation efforts within the park aim to protect this iconic big cat.

Himalayan Ibex (Capra sibirica)
A wild goat species adapted to mountainous terrains, the Himalayan ibex is commonly found in the park. Its presence supports the ecological balance, serving as prey for predators like the snow leopard.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A highly adaptable carnivore, the red fox thrives in the park’s diverse habitats, feeding on small mammals, birds, and fruits.

Golden Marmot (Marmota caudata)
This large rodent is native to the Himalayan region and is commonly seen in the park’s alpine meadows. It plays a vital role in soil aeration and serves as prey for larger predators.

Ladakh Urial (Ovis vignei vignei)
A subspecies of wild sheep, the Ladakh urial is adapted to the park’s steep and rugged terrains. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this species from poaching and habitat loss.

Common Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca)
A versatile predator, the common leopard is found in various habitats within the park, preying on a range of species from small mammals to larger ungulates.

Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)
Also known as the moon bear due to the distinctive white crescent on its chest, this species inhabits the park’s forested areas, feeding on fruits, insects, and small mammals.

Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus)
A large ungulate native to the Himalayas, the Himalayan tahr is well-adapted to the park’s steep terrains, grazing on grasses and shrubs.

Birds

The Ghamot National Park is home to a diverse array of bird species, including several rare and migratory birds. Here are some of the most notable bird species found in the park.

Himalayan Vulture (Gyps himalayensis)
A rare sight, the Himalayan vulture is a scavenger that feeds on carrion, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up animal remains.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
This majestic bird of prey is known for its powerful build and hunting prowess, often seen soaring above the park’s mountainous regions.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus)
A small bird of prey, the Eurasian sparrowhawk is known for its agility and speed, hunting primarily small birds.

Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus)
Also known as the lammergeier, this rare vulture species is distinctive for its beard-like feathers and is known to feed on bone marrow.

Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus)
A rare and colorful pheasant species, the Himalayan monal is the national bird of Nepal and is known for its iridescent plumage.

Koklass Pheasant (Pucrasia macrolopha)
This elusive pheasant species is native to the Himalayan forests and is known for its distinctive calls.

Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar)
A game bird, the chukar partridge is known for its distinctive call and is found in the park’s rocky terrains.

Himalayan Snowcock (Tetraogallus himalayensis)
This rare bird species is adapted to high altitudes and is known for its distinctive plumage and calls.

Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos)
A striking pheasant species, the Kalij pheasant is found in the park’s forested areas, feeding on seeds and insects.

Western Tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus)
Also known as the western horned tragopan, this rare and elusive bird is known for its vibrant plumage and is considered one of the world’s most beautiful pheasants.

Ghamot National Park remains one of Pakistan’s most ecologically significant protected areas, safeguarding its unique wildlife while preserving the breathtaking landscapes of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.