Ayub National Park Beckons City Dwellers

Ishtiaq Ahmed 

Gujar Khan: There is a saying that is often spoken out to British Pakistanis and others: ‘Do as the Romans do’. Interestingly, the British never did as the Indians did.

The Ayub National Park is a gateway to Rawalpindi if one is travelling from Lahore, Jhelum, or my hometown of Gujar Khan.

The park covers an area of 313 acres and is claimed to be one of the largest in Asia. It was used by the British before the partition as Topi Rakh Park, a picnic spot tucked away no doubt from the hustle, bustle, and noise of the city.

Interestingly, the British loved ruling but did not really mix with the locals. They had their own hospitals, schools, holiday resorts, and picnic spots.

The park has become a significant national treasure and the most cherished landmark in Rawalpindi.

In 1959, it was converted into a national park during the reign of Field Marshal Ayub Khan, the former President of Pakistan, and bears his name.

At one time, the park was home to the open theatre and hosted top cultural and social events. However, it was neglected over the years and almost fell into disuse in the early 1990s.

In 2001, President Pervez Musharaf, another military ruler, handed over its control to the Army Heritage Foundation, which oversaw extensive development work there, including establishing play areas, jogging tracks, and lawns; a flood-lit cricket ground and practice nets; an AstroTurf hockey ground; Jungle Barracks, which can be rented for overnight stays; and a zoo that houses 130 species of animals and more than 200 birds. 

In addition, the park houses an army museum, playgrounds, a funfair for children, a substantial water lake, and food facilities.

In short, Ayub National Park offers something for the entire family and those who wish to escape from the noise and pollution of the city. It certainly deserves a visit.

A few random clicks of the facilities for your interest, especially that of the army museum.