105-foot tribute to Pakistan’s national wild goat rises at Shah Daoud Palace
In a historic inauguration, the Kaghan Valley became home to the world’s largest sculpture of the Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, installed near the site of Shah Dawood Palace in the Batakundi region.
The imposing statue was created by engineer Muhammad Shehzad, who dedicated five years to the project. The sculpture measures 105 feet high and 38 feet wide, making it the largest representation of Markhor ever created. Its scale, intricate detail and realistic posture reflect both artistic dedication and a deep appreciation of Pakistan’s wildlife.
The world’s largest sculpture of the markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, has been unveiled in the Kaghan Valley. The 105-foot-tall, 38-foot-wide structure took five years to complete. pic.twitter.com/LGUlFJle1h
– Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) December 3, 2025
The Markhor, known for its spiral horns and ability to navigate rugged mountain ranges, is widely considered a symbol of Pakistan’s high-altitude wildlife. Project organizers say the sculpture is partly aimed at highlighting the importance of conservation of the species, which inhabits regions such as Chitral, Kohistan, Kalam, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan and parts of Azad Kashmir.
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Local authorities and tourism stakeholders say they expect the sculpture to attract visitors, potentially boosting tourism and cultural interest in the area. They believe this monument complements the natural landscape of the valley while promoting environmental awareness.
The project highlights growing efforts to combine art and environmental awareness in Pakistan. By creating a monument celebrating native wildlife, the initiative encourages locals and tourists to engage with and protect the country’s mountain ecosystems.
As the Kaghan Valley welcomes travelers to the new Markhor sculpture, the monument stands as a blend of artistic vision, national pride and ecological message, serving as a lasting tribute to the beauty and importance of Pakistan’s natural heritage.
