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UNESCO Biosphere Reserve · 2023
Gallies Biosphere Reserve
The Galiyat hills, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The forested ridges of the Galiyat, from subtropical pine to moist-temperate forest and subalpine meadows, recognised by UNESCO in 2023.
Forests
Subtropical pine covers the lower slopes, moist-temperate forest runs along the ridges, and subalpine meadows crown the highest ground. Blue pine, yew, horse chestnut and native oaks are among its trees.
Wildlife
The reserve shelters the leopard, koklass and kalij pheasants, and both the giant and the small Kashmir flying squirrel.
Why it is protected
Its purpose is to conserve and sustainably manage these forests while leaving room for research, education and recreation — balancing use and protection through zoning and the involvement of local communities.