105-foot tribute to Pakistan’s national wild goat rises at Shah Daoud Palace
In a landmark unveiling, the 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 the Batakundi area.
The impressive statue was made by engineer Muhammad Shehzad, who dedicated five years to the project. The sculpture is 105 feet tall and spans 38 feet wide, making it the largest Markhor representation ever created. Its scale, intricate detail and lifelike 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 country’s Kaghan Valley. The 105-foot-tall and 38-foot-wide structure took five years to complete. pic.twitter.com/LGUlFJle1h
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) 3 December 2025
Recognized for its spiral horns and ability to navigate steep mountain ranges, the Markhor 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 lives in 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 expect the sculpture to attract visitors, potentially increasing tourism and cultural interest in the region. They believe landmarks complement the valley’s natural landscape while promoting environmental awareness.
The project highlights the growing efforts to combine art with environmental awareness in Pakistan. By creating a monument that celebrates native wildlife, the initiative encourages locals and tourists alike to engage with and protect the country’s mountainous 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 messages, serving as a lasting tribute to the beauty and significance of Pakistan’s natural heritage.
