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Gilgit-Baltistan · The Land of Giants

Deosai National Park | The Land of Giants

Wildflower meadows, glacial lakes and the rare Himalayan brown bear make Deosai one of Pakistan’s most extraordinary places, a vast alpine plateau above 4,000 metres between Skardu and Astore.

Avg. elevation: ~4,114 m ~30 km from Skardu Famous for: Himalayan Brown Bear

Region

Gilgit-Baltistan

Average elevation

~4,114 m (13,497 ft)

Area

~3,000 km²

From Skardu

~30 km via Sadpara

Open

July – September

⦿ Overview

A high-altitude wilderness above the clouds

Deosai National Park, whose name means “Land of Giants,” is one of the highest plateaus in the world, with an average elevation of about 4,114 metres. Spread across roughly 3,000 km² between the Skardu and Astore districts, it was declared a national park in 1993 to protect the Himalayan brown bear.

For a few short months each summer the snow melts and the plains turn into endless carpets of wildflowers, crossed by clear streams and ringed by snow peaks.

Wildlife

Deosai is one of the last strongholds of the Himalayan brown bear in Pakistan. Early mornings and evenings are the best time to spot them grazing across the open plains, along with golden marmots and red foxes.

How to reach Deosai

By road

From Skardu, a 4×4 jeep track climbs past Sadpara Lake onto the plateau (about 30 km). It can also be entered from Astore via Chilam.

By air

Fly from Islamabad to Skardu, then continue to Deosai by jeep. Skardu Airport is the main gateway to the park.

⦿ Good to know

Deosai at a glance

Best time

Jul – Sep (Aug for wildflowers)

Getting there

4×4 or motorcycle from Skardu

Base for exploring

Skardu, or camp at Bara Pani

Plan a Deosai trip →

⦿ Explore

Top attractions in Deosai

From Sheosar Lake to the brown bear plains, the places that make a Deosai crossing unforgettable.

01 · ~4,142 m

Sheosar Lake

One of the highest lakes in the world, its deep-blue water ringed by wildflowers. On a clear day Nanga Parbat is visible from its shores.

02 · Wildlife

Himalayan Brown Bear

Spot the rare brown bear grazing the open plains, along with golden marmots and red foxes.

03 · River crossing

Bara Pani

The main river crossing and camping spot in the middle of the plateau.

04 · Trout stream

Kala Pani

A clear stream known for trout and quiet campsites, a perfect overnight stop.

05 · Ride the plateau

Wildflower Plains

Late July and August turn the plains into a carpet of wildflowers, best seen on a jeep or motorcycle ride.

06 · High pass

Bari La

A high mountain pass on the edge of the plateau with wide views across Deosai.

⦿ Planning

Best time to visit Deosai

Deosai is snowbound for most of the year. The plateau opens in summer, when the snow melts, the roads clear and wildlife is most active.

Jul

Good

Late Jul – Aug

Wildflowers

Sep

Good

Oct – Jun

Closed

⦿ Location

Deosai National Park on the map

⦿ Frequently asked questions

Questions about visiting Deosai

Getting there, when it opens and what to expect on the plateau.

Planning a Deosai trip?

Talk to our team about routes, dates and group sizes for Deosai National Park.

How do I reach Deosai National Park?

Fly or drive to Skardu, then take a 4×4 jeep up the Sadpara track onto the plateau, about 30 km. Deosai can also be reached from Astore via Chilam.

What is Deosai famous for?

Deosai is known as the Land of Giants: one of the world’s highest plateaus, home to the Himalayan brown bear, Sheosar Lake and huge summer wildflower meadows.

What is the best time to visit Deosai?

July to September, when the snow has melted and the roads are open. Late July and August is peak wildflower season.

Is Deosai open all year?

No. Deosai is snowbound from around October to June and is only accessible in summer.

Can Spantik Tours arrange a trip to Deosai?

Yes. Spantik Tours runs motorcycle, 4×4, and group tours to Deosai, with routes, stays, permits and local guides arranged for you. Contact us to plan a route.

⦿ Plan your trip

Planning a trip to Deosai?

Tell us your dates, group size, and how you like to travel, we’ll recommend the best route through Deosai National Park and the valleys around it.

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Local guides & backup vehicles

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