Deosai National Park: The Land of Giants

---

Exploring the Roof of the World — Deosai National Park, Pakistan

Deosai National Park (Urdu: دیوسائی نیشنل پارک) is a vast high-altitude alpine plain and protected area located between the Skardu and Astore districts in Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan. Situated to the east of Nanga Parbat in the western Himalayas, and surrounded by the Deosai Mountains, the park lies close to the central Karakoram Range. Deosai is currently listed on Pakistan’s tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With an average elevation of 4,114 metres (13,497 ft) above sea level, the Deosai Plains form the second-highest plateau in the world after the Changtang Plateau in Tibet.

---

Etymology

The word Deosai (Shina: دیوسای٘) derives from two Shina terms — deo meaning “giant” and sai meaning “shadow.” Together, they translate to “the Shadow of Giants” or “Land of Giants.”

In the Balti language, the region is called Ghbiarsa (غبیارسہ), meaning “summer’s place,” a name that reflects its accessibility only during the summer months when snow melts and the high passes open.

---

Geography

Deosai National Park covers an area of approximately 843 square kilometers (325 sq mi) and lies in the Western Himalayas of Gilgit–Baltistan. The plateau’s sweeping grasslands and rolling hills form part of the Karakoram–West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe eco-region, known for its exceptional biodiversity.

In spring and early summer, the plains burst into color with carpets of wildflowers and swarms of butterflies, creating one of the most breathtaking landscapes in northern Pakistan.

The Bara Pani River, the largest of several streams crossing the plateau, flows through the heart of the park, alongside other smaller rivers and lakes such as the Sheosar Lake, a picturesque alpine lake located in the park’s western section.

---

Access and Travel Routes

Deosai can be reached from multiple directions:

• From Skardu in the north (the shortest route, about 30 km / 19 mi).
• From Astore Valley in the west via Chilim.
• From Galtari Tehsil in the southeast.
• From Mehdiabad through the Mehdiabad–Dapa Road.
• Via Shila Valley and Burgy La (Burgy Nala) routes.

The Gujjar-Bakarwal pastoral communities traditionally travel long distances to graze their livestock on Deosai’s rich summer pastures.

---

Geology and Soil

The soils of Deosai are coarse, gravelly, and highly eroded, reflecting the harsh climatic and geological conditions of the plateau. In low-lying, flat regions between mountain ridges, deeper soils and marshy vegetation are common, providing important wetland habitats.

---

Flora and Fauna

Deosai National Park was officially established in 1993 with the primary goal of protecting the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus) and its habitat.

At the time of its establishment, only 19 bears were recorded in the area. Through conservation efforts led by the Himalayan Wildlife Foundation (HWF) and the government, the population has gradually increased—to 40 individuals by 2005 and 78 by 2022.

The Himalayan Wildlife Foundation, formerly known as the Himalayan Wildlife Project, played a key role in the park’s designation and initial management, operating checkpoints and a research camp for nearly a decade. Management was transferred to the Northern Areas Forest Department in 2006.

While poaching has largely declined since the 1990s, new challenges such as climate change and food scarcity continue to threaten the bear’s survival.

---

Wildlife Diversity

Beyond the brown bear, Deosai is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including:

• Siberian ibex
• Snow leopard
• Kashmir musk deer
• Himalayan wolf
• Himalayan marmot

The park also shelters more than 124 species of resident and migratory birds, such as:

• Golden eagle
• Lammergeier (bearded vulture)
• Himalayan vulture
• Peregrine and laggar falcons
• Eurasian kestrel
• Eurasian sparrowhawk
• Himalayan snowcock

Deosai is classified under IUCN Category Ib, designating it as a wilderness area with minimal human interference.

---

Plant Life

The plateau supports diverse alpine and subalpine vegetation, including the following notable plant species:

Polygonum affine, Thalictrum alpinum, Bromus oxyodon, Saxifraga flagellaris, Androsace mucronifolia, Aster flaccidus, Barbarea vulgaris, Artemisia maritima, Elymus longiaristatus, Nepeta connata, Carex cruenta, Ranunculus laetus, Arenaria neelgherrensis, Astragalus leucocephalus, Polygonum amplexinade, Echinops niveus, Senecio chrysanthemoides, Artemisia spp., Dracocephalum nutans, Taxus contorta, Chrysopogon gryllus subsp. echinulatus, and Dianthus crinitus.

Several medicinal plants also grow here and are widely used in traditional healing, including:

• Thymus linearis (Reetumburuk)
• Saussurea lappa (Kuth)
• Ephedra gerardiana (Say)
• Viola pilosa (Skora-mindoq)
• Pleurospermum candollei (Shamdun)
• Artemisia brevifolia (Bursay)*

---

Conservation Significance

Today, Deosai National Park stands as one of Pakistan’s most vital ecosystems and a symbol of successful wildlife recovery. It represents not only a refuge for endangered species but also an essential part of the Himalayan biodiversity corridor, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 15—the protection of life on land.

Known for its striking beauty, unspoiled wilderness, and ecological importance, the Land of Giants continues to be both a scientific treasure and a breathtaking reminder of nature’s resilience.

---

How far is Deosai from Skardu city?

The distance from Skardu to Deosai is approximately 30-41 kilometers, depending on the specific route, with a driving time of about 1 to 1.5 hours for the first part of the journey. This route requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the rough road conditions.  

• Distance: The distance from Skardu City to Deosai varies by route, but it is around 30 km to 41 km for the initial approach. 
• Time: The drive can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours for the initial part of the trip. 
• Vehicle: A 4×4 vehicle is essential for this route, as the road is rugged and not suitable for smaller cars. 
• Note: The total distance and travel time will be longer if you continue to explore the Deosai Plains after reaching the entrance, as the plains are extensive. 

What is the best time to visit Deosai?

The best time to visit is during July, when the plateau is in full bloom, showcasing lush meadows, wildflowers, and a vibrant display of wildlife. If you’re in the Skardu area, Deosai is easily accessible and can be explored as a day trip.

What animals are in the Deosai National Park?

Deosai National Park is home to several mammals, including the Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, Tibetan wolf, red fox, Himalayan marmot, and Kashmir musk deer. It is also a crucial breeding ground for over 124 species of resident and migratory birds, such as the golden eagle, lammergeier, and Laggar falcon. The park’s waterways contain snow trout.

Can a car go to Deosai National Park?

It is via Skardu City, which is just 30 KM. So, if you are in Skardu city, and you have a 4×4 vehicle, then you can visit Deosai on it. However, if you’re in Gilgit or on the Karakorum highway, it is better to go to Deosai via Astore Valley if you have a smaller car.

Which month is cherry blossom in Skardu?

The best months for Cherry Blossom Skardu are from mid-March to mid-April every year. The best time to visit Skardu Valley for Cherry Blossom also depends upon the altitude and the places you want to see. Where can you witness the cherry blossoms in Pakistan?

Why is Karakoram famous?

The Central Karakorum National Park is a place of superlatives: the highest park in the world, containing within its borders sixty peaks over 7,000 m. and ten of the world’s highest and most famous mountains including four peaks more than 8000 m.a.s.l. and K2, the second highest peak in the world.

What is Deosai famous for?

Deosai Plains are considered as the second highest plateau in the world. The park is famous for its diverse wild life dominated by Himalayan Marmots and Brown Bear. The vast expanse of ground is carpeted with wild flowers.

In Which country is Deosai national park?

Deosai National Park is in Pakistan. It is a high-altitude alpine plain and national park located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, between the Skardu and Astore districts. 

• Region: Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
• Location: Situated in the northern part of Pakistan, east of the Nanga Parbat peak
• Details: The park is known for being a large, high-altitude plateau and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered Himalayan brown bear. 

Deosai National Park distance from Islamabad

The driving distance from Islamabad to Deosai is approximately 600 kilometers, and it can take around 12 hours to reach the nearest entry points like Skardu or Astore. The total journey will likely involve traveling to either Skardu or Astore first, from which you would then drive to the Deosai Plains, which is a further 58 km and 152 km respectively.  

Deosai National Park height

Deosai National Park has an average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 feet) above sea level. It is considered the second-highest alpine plain or plateau in the world, with some areas and lakes reaching even higher altitudes. 

• Average elevation: The average height of the Deosai Plains is 4,114 meters (13,497 feet).
• Sheosar Lake: One of the park’s main features, Sheosar Lake, is located at an average height of 4,250 meters (13,944 feet).
• Global ranking: The Deosai Plateau is the second-highest plateau in the world, after the Changtang Tibetan Plateau.