They call it the Land of Giants — a vast, treeless high plateau where the sky feels enormous, brown bears roam, and in summer the ground erupts in wildflowers. Here's how to experience Deosai National Park.
What is Deosai?
Deosai is a national park straddling the boundary between Skardu and Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan, sitting at around 4,000 m — the second-highest plateau on earth. It was established to protect the endangered Himalayan brown bear. For most of the year it's under snow; for a few short summer months it becomes one of the most extraordinary landscapes in Asia.
When is it open?
| Period | Status |
|---|---|
| Late Jun – Sep | Open (snow melted) |
| Oct – early Jun | Closed (snow-bound) |
The plateau's short season is the main thing to plan around — aim for July to August for peak wildflowers and the most reliable access.
How do you get there?
Deosai is crossed by 4x4 jeep. The two common approaches:
- From Skardu via Sadpara Lake — the usual day trip.
- Crossing to/from Astore — part of a bigger loop (as on our Minimarg & Astore tour).
The tracks are rough and high, so a capable jeep and an experienced driver matter.
What to see
- Sheosar Lake — a serene high-altitude lake, often mirror-still, framed by distant peaks.
- Wildflower plains — in July–August the plateau blooms in colour.
- Kala Pani & Bara Pani — the "black water" and "big water" river crossings.
- Wildlife — golden marmots are common; brown bears are the rare prize.
Altitude & comfort
At 4,000 m, Deosai is cold and exposed even in summer. Bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves, sun protection, and take it easy if you feel the altitude. Days can be sunny and pleasant; the moment clouds roll in, the temperature drops fast.
See it on a tour
Deosai is the centrepiece of our Skardu & Deosai tour, and features on the rugged Minimarg & Astore adventure. Both handle the jeeps, timing and high-altitude logistics for you.