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The World’s Second-Highest Plateau and One of Pakistan’s Greatest Natural Wonders
Deosai National Park is one of the most extraordinary natural environments in Asia. Perched at an average elevation of 4,114 metres — the world’s second-highest plateau after the Tibetan Changtang — Deosai is a vast, treeless alpine wilderness of rolling hills, crystalline streams, and wildflower meadows stretching to every horizon. The Balti people call it Ghbiarsa — “Summer’s Place” — because it is only accessible during the brief warm months when the plateau’s snow cover retreats.
Deosai is accessed from Skardu (just 30km away) and is included in our Baltistan Cultural Tour.
Wildlife: The Himalayan Brown Bear
Deosai National Park was established in 1993 with a single primary purpose: to protect the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear. At the time of establishment, fewer than 19 bears remained in the entire region. Through sustained conservation efforts, the bear population has grown to approximately 78 individuals as of 2022 — a significant conservation success story.
The bears emerge from hibernation in April and remain active until October. July and August offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, when bears are visible foraging in the meadows. Maintain a safe distance of at least 300 metres and always trek with an experienced guide. Other notable wildlife includes Himalayan ibex, Tibetan wolf, golden marmot, snow leopard (rare), golden eagle, and the Lammergeier bearded vulture.
Sheosar Lake
The most iconic feature of Deosai National Park is Sheosar Lake — a pristine alpine lake at 4,142 metres that mirrors the surrounding snow-capped peaks in glassy stillness. Sheosar means “blind lake” in Shina — a reference to its lack of visible inlet and outlet streams. Brown bears are frequently seen fishing in the streams near the lake in summer. The lakeside at dawn, when mist rises from the still water and golden light hits the surrounding peaks, is one of the most beautiful natural scenes in Pakistan.
The Wildflowers
From June to August, Deosai transforms into a sea of colour. Over 342 plant species have been recorded in the park, many blooming simultaneously during the short alpine summer. Highlights include the rare Himalayan blue poppy, primroses, gentians, edelweiss, and numerous medicinal plants used by local communities for centuries. The sight of these wildflower meadows, stretching to the horizon under dramatic Karakoram skies, is genuinely overwhelming.
Best Time to Visit
Deosai National Park is open from mid-June to late September. The park officially opens on approximately June 10th each year when snow conditions allow vehicle access. July and August are the peak months — wildflowers are at their most spectacular, bears are most active, and weather is most stable. The park closes again in October as winter snow returns.
How to Get There
The most common route is from Skardu via Satpara Road (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by 4×4). A second route approaches from Astore Valley via the Chilim Pass, but this requires a longer drive through Astore District. A 4×4 vehicle is mandatory — the plateau road is rough, unpaved, and crosses several river fords.
Deosai is included in our Baltistan Cultural Tour. You can also explore all our Skardu-based packages or contact us to add Deosai to a custom itinerary.
