Deosai National Park Guide: The Land of Giants Above Skardu

Deosai National Park is a vast high-altitude plateau between Skardu and the Astore valley in Gilgit-Baltistan. Its name is often translated as the Land of Giants, and at an average height of over 4,000 metres it is one of the highest plateaus in the world. In summer it turns into a sea of grass and wildflowers crossed by clear streams.

Quick answer: visit Deosai from about late June to September, as a day trip by jeep from Skardu or on the way between Skardu and Astore. The highlights are Sheosar Lake, the Bara Pani stream and a chance of seeing the Himalayan brown bear. Bring warm layers: it is cold even in summer.

Key facts about Deosai

• Location: between Skardu (Baltistan) and Astore, Gilgit-Baltistan.
• Altitude: averages over 4,000 m; Sheosar Lake lies at about 4,140 m.
• Protected: a national park since 1993, created to protect the Himalayan brown bear.
• Season: roughly June to September; snow closes the plateau for the rest of the year.
• Access: by 4x4 jeep from Skardu via Sadpara Lake, or from Astore via Chillam.
• Wildlife: Himalayan brown bear, golden marmot, Himalayan ibex, red fox and birds of prey including the golden eagle and lammergeier.

How to get to Deosai

From Skardu the road climbs past Sadpara Lake to the Ali Malik pass and onto the plateau, about 2 to 3 hours by jeep to the Bara Pani area. A full day trip continues to Sheosar Lake and back. Alternatively, cross the whole plateau from Skardu to Astore and continue to Gilgit or the Karakoram Highway. Ordinary cars are not suitable; hire a local 4x4 jeep.

What to see

Sheosar Lake

A deep blue lake near the Chillam end of the plateau, framed by snow peaks and, on clear days, views towards Nanga Parbat.

Bara Pani

The main stream crossing in the middle of the plateau, with a wooden bridge and the usual camping area.

Wildflowers and wildlife

July and August bring carpets of flowers. Marmots are everywhere; bears are shy, best looked for in the early morning or evening through binoculars, from a distance.

Camping in Deosai

Camping is possible at designated sites such as Bara Pani with a registered operator who brings tents, warm bedding and food. Nights drop close to freezing even in July. Do not camp alone, keep food sealed away from bears, and take all rubbish back with you.

Tips for visiting

• Start early: weather on the plateau changes fast and afternoons can be stormy.
• Pack a warm jacket, hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen.
• Expect altitude: move slowly and drink water.
• There is no mobile signal on most of the plateau and no shops.
• Pay the national park entry fee at the check post.

Frequently asked questions

When is Deosai open?

Usually from about late June to September. Snow closes the plateau from roughly October or November until June.

How high is Deosai?

The plateau averages over 4,000 metres; Sheosar Lake is at about 4,140 metres.

Can you see bears in Deosai?

Sometimes. Deosai protects one of the last populations of Himalayan brown bears in Pakistan, and sightings are possible early or late in the day, from a respectful distance.

Is Deosai a day trip from Skardu?

Yes. Most visitors go by jeep from Skardu in a long day, or camp a night at Bara Pani.

Visit Deosai with us

Deosai is part of many of our Skardu tour packages. See the Deosai region guide or plan a custom trip.