Gurez National Park

Gurez Overview

Gurez National Park, also known as Musk Deer National Park, is a protected area located in the Neelum District of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Established in 2007, the park spans approximately 528.15 square kilometers (203.9 square miles) and is nestled within the high Himalayan foothills, characterized by rugged mountainous terrain reaching elevations up to 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) above sea level.

The landscape is dominated by Western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests, featuring tree species such as blue pine, deodar cedar, Betula utilis (Himalayan birch), Picea smithiana (Himalayan spruce), Abies pindrow (West Himalayan fir), and the endangered Taxus wallichiana (Himalayan yew). The park’s diverse flora also includes flowering plants like Rosa moschata (musk rose) and various herbs and grasses, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region.

The park was primarily established to protect the endangered Himalayan musk deer (Moschus leucogaster), with the population within the park estimated to exceed 50 individuals. In total, Gurez National Park is home to 19 mammal species, 100 bird species, and a few reptiles.

Notable mammals include the Indian leopard (Panthera pardus millardi), snow leopard (Panthera uncia), leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis bengalensis), Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus), Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger), Himalayan wolf (Canis lupus chanco), yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula flavigula), beech marten (Martes foina), red giant flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista albiventer), long-tailed marmot (Marmota caudata aurea), and Kashmir stag (Cervus elaphus hanglu).

Bird species observed in the park include the Himalayan snowcock (Tetraogallus himalayensis), Himalayan monal (Lophophorus impejanus), koklass pheasant (Pucrasia macrolopha), and Himalayan vulture (Gyps himalayensis). Reptiles such as Laudakia agrorensis and Laudakia tuberculata are also present.

Visitors to Gurez National Park can engage in various activities to experience its natural beauty. Trekking through the diverse landscapes offers opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding due to the variety of avian species present. The park’s scenic vistas and tranquil environment also make it an ideal spot for nature photography and peaceful retreats.

Conservation efforts in Gurez National Park have seen both challenges and successes. The park was established to protect the endangered musk deer, and ongoing initiatives aim to preserve its habitat and biodiversity.

However, challenges such as human-wildlife conflict and habitat degradation persist, necessitating continuous efforts to mitigate these issues and promote sustainable conservation practices.

Park Map

Gurez National Park Highlights

Wildlife

The Gurez National Park, also known as Musk Deer National Park, is a protected area located in the Neelum District of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Nestled in the high Himalayan and Pir Panjal ranges, the park encompasses rugged mountain terrains and dense forests, providing a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Below are some of the more prominent species that inhabit Gurez National Park.

Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus chrysogaster)
The park’s namesake, 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 the park offers a sanctuary for its conservation.

Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca)
A versatile predator, the Indian leopard inhabits various terrains within the park, preying on species ranging from small mammals to larger ungulates.

Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)
An elusive and endangered predator, the snow leopard roams 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 Brown Bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus)
A threatened species, the Himalayan brown bear is one of the park’s significant inhabitants. The park provides a connected habitat for these bears, linking populations across northern Pakistan.

Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger)
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 Wolf (Canis lupus chanco)
A subspecies of the gray wolf, the Himalayan wolf is adapted to the high-altitude environments of the park, preying on ungulates and small mammals.

Yellow-throated Marten (Martes flavigula)
A colorful and agile carnivore, the yellow-throated marten is found in the park’s forests, feeding on small mammals, birds, and fruits.

Beech Marten (Martes foina)
Also known as the stone marten, this species inhabits the park’s woodlands, preying on small animals and scavenging for food.

Red Giant Flying Squirrel (Petaurista petaurista)
A nocturnal gliding mammal, the red giant flying squirrel is found in the park’s forests, feeding on leaves, fruits, and nuts.

Long-tailed 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.

Birds

Gurez 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 Snowcock (Tetraogallus himalayensis)
A high-altitude resident, the Himalayan snowcock is commonly seen in the park’s rocky slopes, blending into its surroundings.

Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus)
A brilliantly colored pheasant, the Himalayan monal is found in the park’s high-altitude forests and meadows, 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.

Himalayan Vulture (Gyps himalayensis)
A massive scavenger, the Himalayan vulture plays a crucial role in cleaning up carcasses in the park’s high-altitude areas.

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.

Lammergeier (Gypaetus barbatus)
Also known as the bearded vulture, the lammergeier soars over the park’s peaks, feeding on bones and carrion.

Himalayan Griffon (Gyps himalayensis)
A massive scavenger, the Himalayan griffon vulture plays a crucial role in cleaning up carcasses in the park’s high-altitude areas.

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)
This rare vulture species is distinctive for its beard-like feathers and is known to feed on bone marrow.

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.

Gurez 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.