The World's Highest Plateau and Himalayan Brown Bear Sanctuary
Deosai National Park, often called the "Roof of the World," is a breathtaking high-altitude plateau located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. At an average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 feet) above sea level, it stands as one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Spanning approximately 3,000 square kilometers, this magnificent landscape transforms from a snow-covered wilderness in winter to a vibrant carpet of wildflowers in summer.
The park is renowned as the last remaining sanctuary of the Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus) in Pakistan, with an estimated population of 20-28 bears. This unique ecosystem supports diverse flora and fauna adapted to extreme high-altitude conditions. During summer months, Deosai blooms with over 350 species of alpine flowers, creating a stunning natural mosaic that attracts botanists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Deosai's landscape features rolling hills, crystal-clear streams, and numerous lakes, with Sheosar Lake being the most famous. The park offers some of the most spectacular stargazing opportunities in Pakistan, with minimal light pollution and clear mountain skies revealing the Milky Way in all its glory.
The name "Deosai" translates to "The Land of Giants" in the local Balti language, reflecting both the massive scale of the plateau and the legendary tales associated with it. According to local folklore, Deosai was once inhabited by giants, and the landscape still holds an aura of ancient mystery and grandeur.
Historically, Deosai served as a seasonal grazing ground for nomadic herders from surrounding valleys. The plateau remained largely inaccessible and mysterious to outsiders until the mid-20th century when improved infrastructure began opening the region to exploration. In 1993, recognizing its unique ecological significance, the Government of Pakistan declared Deosai a National Park to protect the endangered Himalayan brown bear and preserve the fragile alpine ecosystem.
The establishment of the park followed extensive research by the Himalayan Wildlife Project, which documented the critical status of the brown bear population. International conservation organizations, including the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), have since collaborated with local authorities to implement conservation programs, community-based tourism initiatives, and sustainable management practices.
Average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 ft), making it one of the world's highest plateaus. Features rolling hills, expansive meadows, and unique rock formations shaped by glacial activity.
Primary habitat of the endangered Himalayan brown bear. Also home to snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, red foxes, golden marmots, and over 30 species of resident and migratory birds.
Over 350 species of alpine flowers including edelweiss, gentians, and primulas. The summer bloom creates a spectacular "flower carpet" across the plateau from July to August.
June to September when snow melts and roads are accessible. July-August for wildflower blooms. Early September for autumn colors. The park is inaccessible from November to May due to heavy snowfall.
Entry fee: ₨500-800 for foreigners, ₨200-300 for Pakistanis. Guided tours: $80-150/day. Camping equipment: $30-60/day. Food supplies: $20-40/day. Total budget: $130-250/day.
Summer temperatures: 5-15°C during day, dropping below freezing at night. Strong winds common. Rapid weather changes with possible snow even in summer. Winter temperatures: -20 to -40°C.
Explore numerous trails across the plateau, ranging from day hikes to multi-day treks. Popular routes include Sheosar Lake trek, Bara Pani to Chilim, and cross-plateau expeditions.
Capture Himalayan brown bears (with guides at safe distance), golden marmots, migratory birds, and stunning landscapes. Early morning and late afternoon offer best lighting for photography.
Experience some of Pakistan's clearest night skies with minimal light pollution. The Milky Way is visible to naked eye, perfect for astrophotography and celestial observation.
From Skardu: 2-3 hours to Deosai entrance via Sadpara Lake road. 4WD vehicles essential. From Astore: 3-4 hours via Chilim route. Roads are rough and seasonally accessible only from June to October.
Local jeeps available from Skardu and Astore to park entrance. Chartered vehicles recommended for flexibility. No regular public transport inside the park. Advance booking essential during peak season.
Skardu Airport (KDU) with flights from Islamabad. Alternatively, Gilgit Airport (GIL) with flights from Islamabad, then 5-6 hour drive to Skardu and onward to Deosai.
Stunning high-altitude lake within Deosai, famous for its crystal-clear waters reflecting surrounding mountains. Perfect for photography and peaceful contemplation.
Beautiful lake near Skardu offering boating facilities and scenic views. Serves as main water source for Skardu town with historical significance.
Also known as Shangrila Lake, famous for its deep blue waters and luxury resort. Popular tourist destination with boating and accommodation facilities.
Google AdSense Advertisement
(Ad code will be implemented here)
Spend 1-2 days in Skardu (2,228m) before ascending to Deosai (4,114m) to prevent altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and ascend gradually.
Always travel with experienced guides in bear areas. Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, store food properly, and never approach or feed wild bears.
Pack for all conditions: warm layers, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves. Weather changes rapidly - be prepared for sun, rain, wind, and possible snow even in summer.
Food options within Deosai are limited due to remote location. Most visitors bring supplies or rely on camp meals prepared by guides:
Simple but nourishing meals including daal, rice, chapati, and vegetable dishes prepared by tour operators. High-energy snacks essential for cold conditions.
Local butter tea (salted tea with butter), traditional green tea (qehwa), and instant coffee help maintain body temperature in cold mountain environment.
Dry fruits (apricots, walnuts), energy bars, chocolate, and nuts provide quick energy for hiking in high-altitude conditions.
The chances of spotting Himalayan brown bears in Deosai National Park vary depending on season, time of day, and specific location within the park. During summer months (July-August), bears are most active around dawn and dusk when they forage for food. The western and central parts of the plateau, particularly near water sources and berry patches, offer better viewing opportunities. However, sightings are never guaranteed as these are wild animals with large territories. Hiring experienced local guides significantly improves chances as they know favored bear locations and understand bear behavior. Always maintain safe distances (minimum 300 meters) and use binoculars or telephoto lenses for observation. The park authorities estimate approximately 20-28 bears in the entire protected area, making each sighting a special and rare experience.
Camping facilities in Deosai National Park are basic due to its protected status and remote location. There are no permanent lodges or hotels within the park boundaries. Visitors typically camp in designated camping areas with tents. Most tour operators provide camping equipment including weather-resistant tents, sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures, sleeping mats, and basic camping gear. Some established campsites have simple toilet facilities, but these are minimal. Visitors must be prepared for primitive conditions. All waste must be carried out of the park - practice "Leave No Trace" principles strictly. Cooking is done on portable stoves as open fires are generally prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem. It's essential to book through reputable tour operators who provide proper equipment and experienced guides familiar with the challenging high-altitude environment.
Visiting Deosai National Park requires several permits and adherence to specific regulations. All foreign visitors must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Interior in Islamabad or through their tour operator. Entry permits are issued at the park entrance checkpoints where fees are collected (approximately ₨500-800 for foreigners, ₨200-300 for Pakistanis). Additional regulations include mandatory hiring of local guides for trekking, restrictions on camping locations to designated areas only, strict prohibitions against littering (all waste must be carried out), bans on hunting or disturbing wildlife, and limitations on group sizes to minimize environmental impact. Drones require special permission from park authorities. The park is typically closed from November to May due to heavy snowfall. Always check current regulations with your tour operator or the Gilgit-Baltistan Wildlife Department before planning your visit.
Trekking in Deosai National Park ranges from moderately challenging to difficult, primarily due to high altitude rather than technical difficulty. The plateau itself is relatively flat, but the elevation (4,114 meters/13,497 feet) presents significant challenges. Most visitors experience some effects of altitude, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches. Proper acclimatization in Skardu (2,228m) for 1-2 days before ascending is crucial. Day hikes from established campsites are manageable for average hikers with reasonable fitness levels, but multi-day treks crossing the plateau require good physical condition and prior high-altitude experience. Weather conditions can change rapidly, adding to the challenge. The lack of marked trails means navigation skills or guides are essential. While not technically difficult like mountain climbing, the combination of altitude, weather, and remoteness makes Deosai trekking suitable for prepared adventurers rather than casual day hikers.
Deosai National Park offers exceptional photography opportunities across multiple categories. Landscape photographers will find breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, wildflower meadows (particularly spectacular in July-August), crystal-clear lakes like Sheosar, and dramatic cloud formations. Wildlife photography focuses on the endangered Himalayan brown bear (requiring long lenses and ethical distancing), golden marmots, various bird species, and if extremely lucky, snow leopards. Macro photography enthusiasts can capture the park's diverse alpine flowers, including rare species like edelweiss. Astrophotography is outstanding due to minimal light pollution - the Milky Way is clearly visible, and northern lights are occasionally seen. The golden hours (sunrise and sunset) paint the plateau in magical light, while midday offers stark contrasts. Seasonal changes provide varied backdrops from spring snowmelt patterns to autumn's golden hues. Always respect wildlife and environment while photographing.