Sheosar Lake
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Lake
Location
Skardu, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Sheosar Lake is a big, clear lake found in the Deosai National Park in Skardu. It sits high up in the mountains. The lake is known for its deep blue water and the wide green fields that surround it. Many people visit this lake to see its calm beauty. It offers a very peaceful experience away from cities.
What To Do
- Walk along the edges of the lake.
- Take many photos of the lake and the high mountains around it.
- Look for different kinds of birds and small animals.
- Have a simple picnic with friends or family by the water.
- Spend some time quietly enjoying the natural views.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Handmade items like wooden bowls and traditional tools from Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Pattu (Wool Fabric): Warm, thick wool cloth often used for local clothing. Available at shops in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Dried Apricots: Locally grown and dried apricots, a famous fruit of the region. Find them in general stores in Skardu. Get Directions
- Precious Stones: Raw or polished local stones like aquamarine and topaz. Look for specialized stone shops in Skardu. Get Directions
- Traditional Balti Caps: Hand-stitched woolen caps, good for keeping warm and as souvenirs. Sold in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Respect the natural environment; do not litter inside Deosai National Park or around the lake.
- Follow all rules set by the Deosai National Park authorities.
- It is good to wear modest clothing out of respect for local customs.
- Photography is generally allowed for personal use.
- Always carry your identification documents.
Health & Safety
- Be ready for high altitude. Take it easy the first day to avoid altitude sickness.
- Wear warm layers of clothing even in summer, as the weather can change quickly.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the dry mountain air.
- Wear strong, comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
- Inform someone about your travel plans, especially if going into remote areas.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (April-May): The weather starts to warm up, but roads may still have some snow. The area slowly becomes green. It is a good time for those who like cold weather and fewer people.
Summer: (June-August): This is the best time to visit. The weather is mild and clear. All roads are open, and the grasslands around the lake are fully green. It is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy (July-August): Skardu and Deosai generally get less heavy rain compared to other parts of Pakistan. Still, some rain can happen, which might make roads a bit muddy. The views remain clear on non-rainy days.
Autumn: (September-October): The weather becomes cold again. The grasslands turn into golden and brown colors. Roads might start closing by late October due to snow. It offers a different, quiet beauty.
Winter: (November-March): The lake and surrounding areas are covered in very heavy snow. Roads to Deosai National Park are fully closed. It is not possible to visit the lake during these months.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu International Airport (KDU). It is located in Skardu city. From Skardu, you need to travel by road to reach the lake.
- By Road: You first travel to Skardu city. From Skardu, you must hire a 4x4 jeep to go through the Deosai National Park. The lake is inside the park. The road is rough and high up.
- By Train: The nearest active major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). Rawalpindi is about 15-20 hours drive by road from Skardu. From Rawalpindi, you would take a bus or flight to Skardu, then a jeep to the lake.
- By Public Transport: From Skardu, you can find shared jeeps or vans going towards the entrance of Deosai National Park. From there, you will need to arrange specific transport or a tour to reach Sheosar Lake inside the park.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- The Hunza Inn Restaurant: Near Skardu Bazaar, Skardu. Contact: +92 345 5000000. Get Directions
- Dewan-e-Khaas Restaurant: Main Karga Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 454747. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Shangrila Resort Skardu: Lower Kachura Lake, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 462100. Website: www.shangrilaresorts.com.pk. Get Directions
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Astana Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 457102. Website: www.serenahotels.com/skardu. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital Skardu: Hospital Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 920002. Get Directions
- Ambulances:
- Rescue 1122 (National Emergency Service): Phone: 1122.
- Police Station:
- Police Station Skardu: Skardu Bypass Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 920005. Get Directions