Detail	Information
Height	~2,800 m (9,200 ft)
Route Taken	Dunga Gali to Mukshpuri
Distance	~4.5 km
Difficulty Level	Moderate (steep sections + uneven trail)
Time to Reach Top	1.5 – 2.5 hours
Time to Descend	1 – 1.5 hours
Best Season	April–October (avoid peak weekends)
Alternative Route	Nathia Gali – longer but easier and much more scenic

Starting Point: A Coaster Full of Women & High Spirits

We assembled at the DHA Phase 2 roundabout early morning. One coaster, all women, different ages and professions — and amazingly, everyone was on time. By 8 a.m., we were on the way to Dunga Gali, excited, fresh.

Breakfast at Dunga Gali was classic desi comfort: parathas, omelettes, chanay, halwa, and chai. With our stomachs full, we hopped into open-air Suzukis — ten women per vehicle — to reach the start of the actual trail.

The Trail: Where the Paved Path Ends & the Challenge Begins

Mukshpuri Hike Difficulty — What to Expect

The first 15–20 minutes get you lulled into a false sense of ease. The path is wide, paved, and ideal for a warmup. Then suddenly it disappears — and the real hike begins: steep incline, rocky stretches, and slippery dusty surfaces.

Crowds on the Mukshpuri Trail

This was the biggest shock.

The trail was packed to full capacity — mainly university and college groups. We hit many bottlenecks where we literally had to stand and wait for the crowd to pass. At various points, the trail narrowed enough to accommodate only two people passing at one time.

If you are envisioning some quiet, meditative mountain walk — forget it.

The Horse Problem — A Safety Hazard That Needs Attention

Let’s talk about the horses.

They were constantly blocking the path, slipping on dust, and causing people to fall. It’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously injured.
There should be a strict rule about:

• limiting crowds

• restricting horses

• enforcing basic hiking etiquette

Some young people also showed up in block heels (yes, heels!), and many turned back midway, calling the experience “bakwas.” The lack of awareness about mountain safety was concerning.

Trash, Dust & the Sad Reality of Tourism

The biggest heartbreak was the trash — plastic bottles, wrappers, cups — thrown carelessly along the trail.

The dust wasn’t just natural; it rose because hundreds of feet were kicking up a trail that is already worn out.

And depressing as it is, most of this littering was done by educated young people. We have a long way to go in developing a sense of responsibility toward our landscape.

Reaching the Top — Wide, Windy & Overwhelming

Despite the chaos, most of us made it to the top, breathless and proud.

What do you see at Mukshpuri Top?

• Endless stretches of Ayubia National Park
• Pine forests
• Miranjani peaks on one side

• Crisp, sharp winds brushing your face

• Open space perfect for photography-if you can manage a shot without the crowds

But even the top was full of people. Some groups were doing full BBQ setups — amusing and chaotic,. One hopes they carried their trash down with them.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, meditative summit, this is not the route.

The Descent — Easier but Hard on the Knees

Coming down was faster and smoother, though steep sections can strain your knees.

Thank God we brought hiking sticks — and for anybody trying this trail, I highly recommend renting or buying one, which is available for Rs. 200.

And yes, along the way, there were food stalls, but we wanted to make it back.

Late Lunch, Cold Breeze &Homeward Bound

We drove to the Hotel Amore for a late lunch upon returning to Dunga Gali, and the moment the sun dipped, this November chill was sharp, refreshing, and a reminder that mountains do not forgive tardiness.

We reached back home around 9 p.m. —exhausted, dusty, but oddly satisfied.

Was the Mukshpuri Hike Worth It?

Yes — because of the people.
Despite the dust, crowds, waits, and horses, the companionship made it memorable. Sometimes the journey matters more than the destination.

Will I do it again?

Most probably not. Not unless they introduce proper crowd control and restrict horses.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Thanks to Haris( 03455369969) for the smooth organization and to Maria (@ artilious studio) for getting together just the right combination of women – supportive, warm, adventurous, and fun.

Overcrowded and dusty, this hike may be, but the memories are golden.

FAQs About the Mukshpuri Hike

1. Is the Mukshpuri hike difficult?

It’s rated moderate, but beginners may find the Dunga Gali route tough due to steep inclines and dusty, uneven patches.

2. How long does it take to complete the Mukshpuri hike?

• Up: 1.5 to 2.5 hours

• Down: 1 to 1.5 hours

Times vary depending on fitness and crowd levels.

3. Which is the easier route to Mukshpuri?

The Nathia Gali route is easier, greener, wider, and significantly less crowded.

4. Is the trail suitable for solo hikers?

Yes, but weekends can be overwhelming. If you want quiet, go on a weekday.

5. What should I take with me?

Water, hiking stick, good shoes, a light jacket, and a small backpack. Avoid heels — this is a mountain, not a mall.

Other Hiking Routes You May Enjoy

Dunga Gali pipeline Hike

Miranjani Hike

Mukshpuri Hike in Winters

Hike to Dagri Bangla