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Deosai National Park

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Deosai National Park (Pakistan)

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Deosai National Park is a high-altitude alpine plateau in northern Pakistan, often referred to as the 'Roof of the World' or 'Land of Giants.' It is situated at an average elevation of approximately 4,114 meters above sea level within the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Spanning an area of about 3,000 square kilometers, Deosai is one of the highest plateaus on Earth. The park was established in 1993 primarily to protect the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear, whose population has since seen a stable recovery. Geographically, the area is buried under deep snow for up to eight months of the year, while in the summer, it transforms into a vast meadow of colorful wildflowers. A central feature of the park is Sheosar Lake, one of the world's highest lakes, offering memorable views of Nanga Parbat. The flora includes numerous endemic plant species, and the fauna is home to snow leopards and Himalayan ibex alongside the bears. Due to its extreme altitude and pristine nature, the park is only accessible to tourists during the brief summer months.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-16-14-9-32610105-1-7-13
Rain mm455656553534364126152821

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The high-altitude plateau is usually accessed via Skardu or Astore using a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. The journey involves navigating rough, unpaved mountain roads that require an experienced local driver.
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Best season
The best time to visit is typically from mid-July to mid-August when the snow has melted and wildflowers are in full bloom. The park is completely inaccessible during winter due to heavy snowfall.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape is characterized by vast, undulating plains interspersed with rolling hills and alpine lakes. Walking paths are mostly informal dirt tracks across grassy meadows at very high altitudes.
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What to bring
Bring warm, windproof clothing even in summer, as weather changes rapidly at this altitude. Sun protection, sturdy hiking boots, and a reliable water filter or sufficient drinking water are essential.
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Parking
Visitors generally leave their vehicles at designated entry points or near major camping spots like Sheosar Lake. Parking facilities are extremely basic and often just consist of open, flat ground.
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Safety
Altitude sickness is a major risk, so proper acclimatization in Skardu is highly recommended before ascending. Be aware of your surroundings, as this is a known habitat for the Himalayan brown bear.
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Time needed
A typical visit ranges from a full-day excursion from Skardu to a multi-day camping trip. Plan to spend at least 6 to 8 hours to properly experience the vast landscapes and main alpine lakes.

Geography

Coordinates
35.03330, 75.41670

Facts

  • The average elevation of the plateau is 4,114 meters.
  • The park covers a protected area of approximately 3,000 km².
  • It was officially designated as a national park in 1993.
  • Deosai is home to the rare Himalayan brown bear population.
  • Sheosar Lake measures roughly 2.3 km in length and 1.8 km in width.
  • The plateau is typically inaccessible from November to May.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Shangrila (Lower Kachura Lake)Shangrila (Lower Kachura Lake)12 km · EExplore →
Sheosar LakeSheosar Lake18 km · SExplore →
SkarduSkardu23 km · NExplore →
SonamargSonamarg25 km · SWExplore →
Satpara LakeSatpara Lake25 km · NExplore →
PahalgamPahalgam31 km · WExplore →
Shigar ValleyShigar Valley33 km · NExplore →
Astore ValleyAstore Valley34 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Deosai National Park (1)

Deosai National Park🌿 nature

A famous high-altitude alpine plain and nature reserve in Pakistan, renowned for protecting the endangered Himalayan brown bear.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is Deosai National Park open?
The roads are usually only passable from June to September.
Are there bears there?
Yes, the park is known for the endangered brown bear.
Do you need a 4x4 vehicle for the park?
Absolutely, the terrain is very rough and requires a 4x4.
Are there accommodations in the park?
No, you must stay in nearby towns like Skardu.
What clothing should one pack?
Warm clothing is essential even in summer as it freezes at night.
Deosai National Park: where is it located?
Deosai National Park is located in Pakistan.
Deosai National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Deosai National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Deosai National Park is a high-altitude alpine plateau in northern Pakistan, often referred to as the 'Roof of the World' or 'Land of Giants.' It is situated at an average elevation of approximately 4,114 meters above sea level within the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
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Nature

Sheosar Lake — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Sheosar Lake
A scenic lake located in Deosai National Park, known for its deep blue water and surrounding meadows.
Satpara Lake — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Satpara Lake
A picturesque lake near Skardu, which is an important source of water for the city.
Attabad Lake — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Attabad Lake
A lake in the Hunza Valley that was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide dammed the Hunza River.

More places

Shigar Valley — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Shigar Valley
The Shigar Valley is the gateway to the gigantic peaks of the Karakoram in Baltistan.
Khunjerab National Park — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Khunjerab National Park
One of the highest altitude national parks in the world, located on the border with China and a habitat for the Marco Polo sheep.
Spantik — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Spantik
Spantik, often referred to as the 'Golden Peak', is a 7,027-meter-high mountain in the Rakaposhi massif.
Astore Valley — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Astore Valley
The Astore Valley separates the peaks of the western Himalayas from those of the Karakoram.
🗺️
Nangma Valley
A remote and pristine valley near Skardu, famous for its dramatic rock walls and climbing opportunities.
Baltit Fort — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Baltit Fort
An ancient fort in the Hunza valley, over 700 years old.
Fairy Meadows — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Fairy Meadows
A lush green plateau at the base of Nanga Parbat, named by German climbers.
Nanga Parbat — Deosai National Park (Pakistan)
Nanga Parbat
The ninth-highest mountain in the world, notorious for its immense, icy Rupal Face.