Flora & Fauna

Flora & Fauna

The diverse plant life that sustains the ecosystems of the Karakoram highlands.

Plant Species

Mountain Flora

The high-altitude botanical diversity of Khunjrab, from medicinal herbs to ancient trees.

Tumuru

Tumuru

Tumuru

A hardy mountain shrub with medicinal properties, found across the high-altitude pastures of Khunjrab.

Spandar (Wild Rue)

Spandar

Spandar (Wild Rue)

Sacred plant burned as incense during cultural ceremonies, believed to ward off negative energy.

Ambar

Ambar

Ambar

Aromatic mountain herb valued for its traditional uses in local medicine and cultural practices.

Sea Buckthorn

Chharma

Sea Buckthorn

Nutritious orange berry shrub growing along river banks, rich in vitamins and used in traditional medicine.

Photo coming soon

Bozlanj

Bozlanj

Traditional plant species used by Wakhi communities for centuries, thriving in the harsh mountain climate.

Photo coming soon

Archa

Juniper

Ancient juniper trees that dot the mountain slopes, some estimated to be several hundred years old.

Ecosystems

Ecological Zones

Khunjrab spans multiple altitude zones, each with distinct botanical communities.

3,500 - 4,500m

Alpine Meadows

High-altitude grasslands home to wildflowers, medicinal herbs, and seasonal grazing pastures.

2,800 - 3,500m

Subalpine Scrub

Juniper woodlands and hardy shrubs providing critical habitat for wildlife and watershed protection.

2,400 - 2,800m

Valley Floor

Irrigated agricultural lands, willow groves, and traditional orchards sustaining village life.