Mukshpuri is about 2800m (9200ft) mountain in Nathia Gali and is the second highest peak in the region after Mirajani (3000m, 9800ft). When I was in my high school in late 90s one of my uncle and his friends went to Mukshpuri. Ever since then I was planning to go there as well but due to study and work abroad I never had an opportunity to hike around thick pine forest of Galiyaat. Recently, I saw several social media blogs and Facebook posts and tweets about Mukshpuri. Being local and climatized for several weeks in Abbottabad and Biran Gali, I finally decided to go there.

Ariel view of Mukshpuri peak. Downhill Dunga Gali bazar can be seen. Picture taken with DJI Spark.

How and when to go:

Whole Galiyat generally and Nathia Gali and surroundings particularly are accessible throughout the year though recommended season for Mukshpuri is between April and October. Galiyat receives massive snow during peak winters and therefor I would avoid trekking during December-March. My favourite time is either May-June or Sep-Oct. During July-August you may have poor visibility due to clouds. If you are traveling with your own car it takes about 2 hours from Abbottabad, road is in excellent condition but often gets slippery due to rain and have dangerous turns. Some turns between Abbottabad and Nathia Gali are very notorious and have taken several lives. Drive carefully without burning your butts! You can also drive directly from Islamabad, leave early morning, park in Dunga Gali. There is a newly built road (about 1 Km) upwards from Dunga Gali, you should drive up there.  This will save your calories. There is no free parking but you can get one with Rs 200-250. At the start of trek you need to pay small entry fee.

This trek is very well maintained and track is not very steep. Total one way distance is 3 Km. Depending on your speed and stamina trekking time varies. We hiked up in 70mins with two 5min breaks. Taking small children is not recommended unless you can carry them up. We dared to take our 2 year old daughter with us!!! I recommend starting the trek no later than 1:00 PM, earlier is better.

What to take with:

1. Water at least 1 litter per person.
2. Food and snakes
3. Sunglasses and sun protection lotion
4. Sun hat.
5. I highly recommend trekking sticks, your can bring your own or take on rent at the gate (Rent is Rs 50). 
6. Camera and related gears
7. Pain killers
8. Mosquito repellent spray or lotion.
9. Hiking shoes

What to do there:

Mukshpuri is very photogenic place. On a clear day (usually in May-June) you can spot several villages of districts Abbottabad, Nathia Gali, Ayubia, Mirajani, Muree, Kahota, and even AJK including river Jhelum. Place is spectacular for photography and even walk (if you can do it after long hike). Camping is possible but I am not sure if it is allowed by wildlife department as the area is surrounded by thick forest and there is risk of wild animals. If you plan to camp at the top take at least 8-10 people and double check the forecast.

Final word:

This is a highly recommended place for young people, groups, families and couples. The peak is very similar to Seri-Paye in the Shogran region of KPK with much more convenient and accessible track. KPK tourism and wildlife department has maintained the whole region very well. There are several litter boxes and even staff taking care of plastic and food waste. Chacha Bashir is one of the locals hired by the wildlife department to keep Mukshpuri clean for you. I hope you will maintain the civic sense and responsibility and protect the environment for your coming generations. Have a wonderful trek!!!!