30-meter-high tribute to Pakistan’s national wild goat rises at Shah Daoud Palace
In a historic opening, Kaghan Valley has become home to the world’s largest sculpture of the Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, installed near the Shah Dawood Palace site in Batakundi area.
The imposing statue was created by engineer Muhammad Shehzad, who dedicated five years to the project. The sculpture measures 105 feet tall and 38 feet wide, making it the largest representation of Markhor ever created. Its scale, intricate details and realistic stance reflect both artistic dedication and a deep appreciation for Pakistan’s wildlife.
The world’s largest sculpture of the markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, has been unveiled in the country’s Kaghan Valley. The 105-foot-tall, 38-foot-wide structure took five years to complete. pic.twitter.com/LGUlFJle1h
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The Markhor, recognized for its spiral horns and its ability to navigate steep mountain ranges, is widely seen as a symbol of Pakistan’s high-altitude wildlife. Project organizers say the sculpture is partly intended to highlight the importance of conserving the species, which inhabits areas such as Chitral, Kohistan, Kalam, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan and parts of Azad Kashmir.
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Local authorities and tourism stakeholders say they hope the sculpture will attract visitors, which could boost tourism and cultural interest in the region. They believe the landmark complements the valley’s natural landscape while promoting environmental awareness.
The project highlights the growing effort to combine art with environmental awareness in Pakistan. By creating a monument that celebrates native wildlife, the initiative encourages both locals and tourists to get involved and protect the country’s mountain ecosystems.
As the Kaghan Valley welcomes travelers to Markhor’s new sculpture, the monument stands as a combination of artistic vision, national pride and ecological message, and serves as a lasting tribute to the beauty and importance of Pakistan’s natural heritage.
