Deosai National Park
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
National Park
Location
Skardu, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Deosai National Park is a high-altitude plateau in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is one of the highest plateaus in the world. The park is known for its wide open grasslands and unique wildlife. It was made a national park to protect the Himalayan brown bear. Deosai means 'Land of Giants' in the local language. It offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and clear blue skies.
What To Do
- Spot Himalayan brown bears in their natural home.
- Visit Sheosar Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake known for its clear waters.
- Go camping under the stars, but remember to bring your own gear.
- Enjoy photography of the vast plains and mountain views.
- Walk around the park to see different kinds of plants and flowers.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Small items made by local people, often found in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Fresh apricots, almonds, and walnuts from local farms. Get Directions
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm shawls made from goat wool, good for cold weather. Get Directions
- Balti Caps: Traditional woollen caps worn by men in the region. Get Directions
- Herbal Teas: Local herbs used for teas, often sold by small shops. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Always carry a permit from the wildlife department or park authority before entering.
- Do not litter; carry all your trash out of the park.
- Stay on marked trails and do not disturb wildlife or plants.
- Camping is allowed only in designated areas.
- Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of wildlife.
Health & Safety
- The park is at a very high altitude, so watch out for altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and move slowly.
- Weather can change very fast, so bring warm clothes even in summer.
- The roads are rough; make sure your vehicle is in good condition and driven by an experienced driver.
- Carry basic first-aid supplies, as medical help is far away.
- Be aware of wild animals and do not approach them.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: The park is usually still closed in early spring due to heavy snow. Late spring (May) may see some access, but much of the park is covered in snow, making travel difficult. Temperatures are very cold.
Summer: This is the best time to visit, from June to September. The snow melts, revealing green plains and wildflowers. Temperatures are cool and pleasant during the day, but cold at night. Wildlife viewing is best during this season.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Deosai does not get heavy monsoon rains like other parts of Pakistan. However, occasional showers can occur in summer months. Roads can become muddy and tricky, but generally, it is manageable.
Autumn: The park starts to get very cold from October onwards. The green plains turn brown, and snow begins to fall. Access becomes difficult, and the park prepares forWinter: closure. Wildlife may be less visible as they prepare for winter.
Winter: The park is completely closed and covered in several feet of snow, making it impossible to access. Temperatures drop well below freezing. It is not possible to visit Deosai in winter.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu International Airport (KDE), located in Skardu city. From Skardu, you need to take a jeep to reach Deosai National Park.
- By Road: Deosai National Park is reached by road from Skardu or Astore. The roads are rough and unpaved, requiring a 4x4 vehicle. The journey from Skardu to Deosai takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). From Rawalpindi, you would need to travel by bus or flight to Skardu, which is a long journey of over 500 kilometers.
- By Public Transport: From Skardu city, you can hire private jeeps or shared vans (when available) that go towards Deosai National Park during the open season. There is no direct public bus service into the park itself.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Baltistan Cuisine Restaurant: Hussainabad Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 345 5432101. Get Directions
- The Concordia Restaurant: Main K2 Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 333 5123456. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Airport Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 458900. Website: www.serenahotels.com/skardu. Get Directions
- Hotel One Skardu: College Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 454500. Website: www.hotelone.com.pk/skardu. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- District Headquarters Hospital Skardu, Airport Road, Skardu. Phone Number: +92 5811 920101. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122, official emergency number for Pakistan)
- Police Station: Skardu Police Station, Main K2 Road, Skardu. Phone Number: +92 5811 920202. Get Directions