Chitral Gol National Park – Our Family Adventure to Birmoghlasht
There are certain journeys that stay with you forever—not because of how far you travel, but because of the memories you make along the way. One such trip for us was to Chitral Gol National Park in September 2024.
It was a weekend, and all the kids in our family were home. On a pleasant morning, we decided to escape into nature and visit the famous Birmoghlasht, a place known not only for its wildlife but also for its breathtaking views of the Hindukush mountains.
This blog post shares both our personal travel experience and useful travel information about Chitral Gol National Park—so you can plan your own visit with confidence.
About Chitral Gol National Park
Location and Geography
Chitral Gol National Park lies in the Chitral District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Covering an area of around 7,750 hectares, the park stretches between an elevation of 1,450 meters (4,760 ft) to 4,500 meters (14,800 ft) above sea level.
It is only a short drive (about 11 km) from the town of Chitral, yet it feels like a completely different world—a world of mountains, forests, and silence broken only by the sounds of nature.
Historical and Cultural Importance
The park also carries cultural significance. Birmoghlasht once housed the summer residence of the Mehtar of Chitral (the local ruler). From there, the royal family used to overlook the valley below. Today, those ruins remind visitors of the rich history tied to this land.
Why Chitral Gol National Park is Famous
Wildlife Sanctuary
The park is most renowned for being a safe haven for the Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal. Visitors often come in hopes of spotting these majestic wild goats climbing the rocky cliffs.
Besides markhors, the park is home to:
- Snow Leopards (rare but present)
- Ibex
- Himalayan Wolves
- Red Foxes
- Various bird species like snow partridge, chukar, and golden eagles
Scenic Beauty
The real charm lies in its views—lush green meadows, pine forests, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. Every season transforms the park:
- Spring brings blooming flowers.
- Summer offers lush greenery.
- Autumn paints the mountains in golden hues.
- Winter covers it in snow, giving it a serene silence.
Beginning Our Family Journey
Setting Out from Dolomuch
On that September morning, the weather was moderate—neither too hot nor too cold. We set out from Dolomuch, carrying the excitement of adventure. Our group included more than 10 family members, kids buzzing with energy and adults eager for some fresh air.
From the Chitral main bazaar, the road begins its steep climb toward Birmoghlasht. And here’s where the adventure truly began.
The road to Chitral Gol National Park is narrow, rough, and steep. As much as I love driving, I wasn’t confident about handling such tricky terrain. Luckily, my cousin brother, an expert driver with plenty of experience on mountain roads, took the wheel.
Our Vehicle – The Old Toyota FJ Cruiser
Why It Was the Perfect Fit
We traveled in an old Toyota FJ Cruiser—a rugged vehicle that seemed like it was built for roads like these. While it might not look glamorous, its power and durability made the journey possible. On such steep roads, a strong vehicle isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
Before climbing, we picked up food and snacks from Chitral Bazaar. Trust me, when you’re traveling with kids, snacks are lifesavers. We had chips, biscuits, fruit, and plenty of water, which later proved very handy when we took breaks along the way.
The Challenging Drive
One-Hour Climb
The journey took about one hour of continuous climbing. The kids kept pointing out trees, rocks, and the winding views of Chitral Valley below.
We kept scanning the cliffs in hopes of spotting markhors. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on our side that day. Still, the anticipation made the drive more exciting—every turn felt like it might reveal one.
Rain, Mud, and My Cousin’s Driving Skills
Halfway through, the weather shifted. Clouds gathered, and soon it began to rain. The road quickly turned muddy and slippery, making the drive nerve-wracking.
Keeping Control on Slippery Roads
At some points, the vehicle swayed slightly, but my cousin’s driving skills shone through. He carefully kept the heavy FJ Cruiser steady, navigating every dangerous curve until we reached the end point safely.
Weather Turns Magical
From Cold Shivers to Sunshine
As we stepped out, the rain poured harder, and a cold breeze left us shivering. Just when we thought our picnic might be ruined, the rain stopped, and the sun broke through the clouds. The valley lit up, and the air felt fresh and alive.
Kids’ Joy in Nature
The kids wasted no time—climbing trees, running around, and laughing freely. Their joy reminded me of the true purpose of family trips: to create shared memories away from screens and routine life.
An Unexpected Musical Surprise
The Sound of Music in the Mountains
Just when we were about to leave, I heard faint musical sounds echoing across the hills. Intrigued, I followed the direction, and to my surprise, stumbled upon the Qashqarian Band, the famous band from Chitral, casually jamming in the park!\
A Short but Memorable Jam Session
I spent some time with them, soaking in the music that blended beautifully with the natural surroundings. I managed to record a short video, but unfortunately, my phone battery died, leaving me with just one clip. Even so, that video is now a cherished memory uploaded to my YouTube channel.
Returning Home
The Journey Back
After enjoying the music and weather, we decided to head back. The drive downhill took about one and a half hours. While the road was the same, the feeling was different—relaxed and reflective.
Carrying Memories
Back home, the kids were tired but happy, and the adults shared laughs about the rain, the drive, and the surprise concert. It was a day of challenges, joy, and unexpected blessings—a perfect mix for a family adventure.
Travel Tips for Visiting Chitral Gol National Park
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–May): Blooming flowers and pleasant weather
- Summer (June–August): Greenery at its peak
- Autumn (September–October): Crisp air and golden landscapes
- Winter (November–March): Cold and snowy, only for adventurous travelers
Safety Tips
- Always travel with an experienced driver.
- Use a 4×4 or strong vehicle.
- Carry extra food, water, and warm clothes.
- Keep your phone fully charged (power banks are a must).
What to Pack
- Snacks for kids
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jackets (weather can change quickly)
- Binoculars (for spotting markhors and birds)
FAQs About Chitral Gol National Park
Final Thoughts
Our trip to Chitral Gol National Park was more than just a family picnic—it was an adventure through rough roads, unexpected weather, and magical surprises. From the excitement of the kids to the skillful driving of my cousin, and the unexpected music of the Qashqarian Band, every moment made it special.
If you’re visiting Chitral, make sure you don’t miss this gem. Pack wisely, travel safely, and be ready for surprises—you never know what memories you’ll take back from the mountains of Chitral.
