Things to Do in Deosai Plains
Deosai Plains, پاکستان - Complete Travel Guide
Deosai Plains, known as the 'Land of Giants' or 'Roof of the World,' is one of the highest plateaus on Earth, situated at an elevation of over 4,000 meters in northern Pakistan. This breathtaking wilderness spans across 3,000 square kilometers between the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges, serving as a crucial habitat for the endangered Himalayan brown bear and offering some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in South Asia.
During the brief summer months from June to September, this barren winter landscape transforms into a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, earning it the nickname 'Land of Flowers.' The plains offer visitors an otherworldly experience with rolling hills, crystal-clear streams, pristine lakes like Sheosar Lake, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. As Pakistan's second-largest national park, Deosai provides unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography, camping under star-filled skies, and experiencing the raw beauty of high-altitude wilderness.
Top Things to Do in Deosai Plains
Wildlife Safari and Brown Bear Spotting
Embark on guided wildlife safaris across the plateau to spot the rare Himalayan brown bear, along with other wildlife like ibex, red foxes, and golden marmots. The early morning and late afternoon hours offer the best chances for wildlife sightings when animals are most active.
Booking Tip: Book through certified tour operators in Skardu for $80-150 per day including guide and 4WD vehicle. Best viewing months are July-August when bears are most active before hibernation.
Sheosar Lake Photography and Camping
Visit the stunning Sheosar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and reflecting the dramatic landscape. The lake offers incredible photography opportunities and serves as a perfect camping spot for overnight stays under the clearest night skies.
Booking Tip: Camping permits cost around $10-15 per person. Bring your own camping gear or rent from Skardu operators for $30-50 per day. Weather can change rapidly, so pack warm clothing even in summer.
Wildflower Meadow Trekking
Explore the vast meadows during peak blooming season when millions of wildflowers create a colorful carpet across the plateau. Trek through different sections of the plains to witness varying flower species and capture stunning landscape photography.
Booking Tip: Best time is mid-July to mid-August when flowers are in full bloom. Hire local guides for $25-40 per day who know the best flower viewing spots and can ensure safe navigation.
Astronomical Observation and Stargazing
Experience some of the world's clearest night skies due to minimal light pollution and high altitude. The plateau offers exceptional conditions for stargazing, astrophotography, and observing celestial phenomena with naked eyes or telescopes.
Booking Tip: Bring your own telescope or book with operators who provide equipment for $20-30 extra per night. New moon phases offer the darkest skies, while summer months have the most comfortable temperatures for overnight viewing.
High-Altitude Fishing and Stream Exploration
Try your hand at trout fishing in the pristine streams and lakes scattered across the plateau. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent fishing opportunities while providing a peaceful way to explore different areas of this vast wilderness.
Booking Tip: Fishing permits required and can be arranged through local tour operators for $15-25. Best fishing months are July-August when water levels are optimal. Bring or rent appropriate high-altitude fishing gear.
Getting There
Deosai Plains are accessible primarily through Skardu, which can be reached by a scenic but challenging flight from Islamabad (weather permitting) or a 8-10 hour drive via the Karakoram Highway. From Skardu, it's a 2-3 hour drive through rough mountain roads to reach the plateau, requiring a 4WD vehicle due to the terrain. Alternative access is possible from Astore via a longer but equally spectacular route. The roads to Deosai are typically open only from June to October due to heavy snowfall, and visitors should always check current conditions and travel with experienced local drivers familiar with the high-altitude routes.
Getting Around
Transportation within Deosai Plains requires 4WD vehicles due to the rough terrain and high altitude conditions. Most visitors arrange guided tours with local operators who provide experienced drivers familiar with the challenging roads and changing weather conditions. Walking and trekking are popular for shorter distances, but the high altitude (over 4,000m) requires acclimatization and proper preparation. There are no public transportation options within the plateau, making private vehicle arrangements essential. Motorbikes are sometimes used by experienced riders, but the altitude and weather conditions make this option suitable only for very experienced high-altitude riders.
Where to Stay
Skardu Hotels and Guesthouses
Deosai Camping Sites
Sheosar Lake Campground
Chilim Village Homestays
Astore Valley Accommodations
Mobile Camping with Tour Operators
Food & Dining
Dining options in Deosai Plains are extremely limited, with most visitors bringing packed meals or arranging food through tour operators. The nearest restaurants and food supplies are in Skardu town, where you can find traditional Pakistani cuisine, local Balti dishes, and basic international options. Most camping expeditions include meal preparation by guides who cook simple but hearty meals suitable for high-altitude conditions. It's essential to bring sufficient food supplies, snacks, and plenty of water, as there are no commercial food establishments within the plateau itself. Local tour operators typically provide traditional dal, rice, bread, and tea as part of camping packages.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Pakistan
Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)
When to Visit
The best time to visit Deosai Plains is during the brief summer season from late June to early September when the snow melts and the plateau becomes accessible. July and August are ideal months when wildflowers are in full bloom, creating spectacular colorful meadows, and wildlife is most active. The weather during this period is relatively mild during the day (15-20°C) but can drop significantly at night (0-5°C). September offers clearer skies and excellent visibility but with colder temperatures and the beginning of autumn colors. Winter visits are virtually impossible due to heavy snowfall and road closures, while spring arrives late with unpredictable weather and limited accessibility.
Insider Tips
Acclimatize in Skardu for at least one day before heading to Deosai to avoid altitude sickness, and bring altitude sickness medication as a precaution
Pack warm clothing even in summer as temperatures can drop dramatically at night, and weather conditions can change rapidly from sunny to stormy within hours
Bring extra batteries and power banks as the cold temperatures drain electronic devices quickly, and there's no electricity available in the plateau for charging