Have you ever heard about Deosai National Park? If not, you are missing a lot of information that you should not!
Deosai Park is not as small as you think. It is a part of the Deosai Plains of Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, a region of Pakistan. These plains are considered the second highest plateau in the world, as the first one is the Changtang Tibetan Plateau.
This park contains a variety of vastness that many people are unaware of. In this guide, we will discuss all the amazing facts about this amazing and adventurous park from A to Z.
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Deosai National Park | What is it?
Wide, open, dazzling meadows and untamed wildlife thrive in the exceptional beauty and ecological worth of Deosai National Park. Deosai is the name for the Giants’ land in Urdu. The Balti people have named this site Ghabiarsa, which means summer’s place, since it is available only during the summer season. It is a unique alpine plateau found in the western Himalayan massif. Furthermore, in the east of Nanga Parbat Peak and close to the Central Karakoram Range. Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is the location of its presence, between the Skardu District and Astore District.
At an altitude of 3500 to 5200 m., the plateau is 358,4 km² in area and is characterized by undulating plains interspersed with gently rolling hills and encircled by mountains. Its location is a sharp contrast from most of the surrounding scenery, which features tight valleys between high mountain ranges.
History of the Deosai National Park
The establishment of Deosai National Park in 1993 was to protect both the habitat and the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear. Once a favoured target for poachers and hunters, the bear can now find hope for survival in Deosai, where its population has escalated from 19 in 1993 to 40 in 2005 and subsequently reached 78 in 2022.
The Himalayan Wildlife Foundation (HWF) was central to turning Deosai into a National Park in 1993. They ran the park for close to ten years, conducting research and recording its wildlife. The Northern Areas Forest Department took over the control of park management in 2006. Even though hunting and poaching have reduced, brown bears still face dangers from climate change and lack of nutrition.
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Deosai National Park | Its Climate
You can never rely on the weather in Deosai. Even though the place is open only during the summer, tourists often see snow during that season as well. In one instant, you could appreciate the impressive vistas of sunlight and clouds, playing hide-and-seek games in the sky. The sky might be dreary next time, with chilly winds and thunderstorms beginning. Being situated facing the outer Himalayas, Deosai receives more rainfall than the surrounding northern and northeastern valleys of Baltistan. Winter typically receives 350 to 550 mm of precipitation each year.
In addition to its beautiful landscapes and unpredictable weather, Deosai is famous for its booming silence. While many people have tried to explain it, experiencing it is the only way to understand it.
Geographical Significance of Deosai National Park
The Deosai National Park, which spans the Himalayan and Karakorum-Pamir highlands, is located right where two biogeographical areas converge. Biodiversity reaches great heights in this landscape because numerous species pass through the Karakorum range while being influenced by the main back dale of the Himalayas and the Zanskar range.
These factors create high-altitude wetlands characterized by Sheosar Lake, which rises to 4,250 meters. They exist uniquely in the Himalayas Hindukush and Karakoram mountain ranges. The plateau is highly important regarding its watershed function. Deosai National Park gives rise to three crucial rivers, Shatung, Kala Pani, and the Shigar River, which serves as a key branch of the Indus River.
Also, read Karakoram Range -All You Need To Know
Rich Diversity of Wildlife.
The former abundance of the Himalayan brown bear in the mountains has reduced its population to living exclusively in the Deosai Plains. At present, the park contains twenty to twenty-eight Brown bears. This park has been designed to safeguard vulnerable bears. A project began this year to monitor the brown bear numbers in Deosai Plains and safeguard their population with help from WFH and the Northern Areas Forest division. Numerous birds and the snow leopard live in this terrain, with the ibex and golden marmot. Currently, the park has between 20 and 28 Brown bears. The establishment intended to defend these at-risk bears in this park.
HWF is known for its work in the region.
In the past few months, the Himalayan Wildlife Foundation (HWF), together with the Northern Areas Forests Parks and Wildlife Department, initiated a study to preserve the brown bears in the Deosai Plains and track their numbers. The Brown bear and Snow leopard represent the park’s mammals, along with the Himalayan Musk deer, Golden marmot, Pika, and Migratory hamster.
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How to Get to Deosai National Park?
If you want to access Deosai Park, the following are the routes that you should consider.
Originating in Skardu
To reach the Deosai National Park in 30 kilometres, you should go to Skardu City. The plateau is reachable in under an hour from the city.
From the Astore Valley
An alternative path through Chilam in the Astore Valley is frequently used. While there are several additional ways to get to the park, locals mostly prefer them; tourists must stay away if they do not understand the area’s topography and routes.
Places to stay at Deosai Park
Visit these camps for lodging if you want to explore Deosai National Park.
Bara Pani
Among the stays in Deosai National Park, Bara Pani is most renowned and may truly be top-tier. This location provides the highest number of services and magnificent vistas. A hill is located right behind the campground, which gives spectacular views of the surrounding plains and Nanga Parbat. It shines especially at dawn.
You can stay at Bara Pani’s communal tents, but I prefer a private tent for my own space. Set up a campsite at a distance from where you are camping. You will enjoy more silence in that spot and still enjoy meals from your campsite.
Kala Pani
Although Kala Pani is narrower and calmer than Bara Pani, its scenic charm is diminished. It takes around 45 minutes to reach Bara Pani from here.
Sheosar
The facilities at Sheosar are the least developed of the three and may be unavailable throughout certain years. Before camping at this location, ensure you take your belongings.
Also, Read Luxury Camping in Skardu- Gilgit Baltistan
Things to do at the Deosai National Park
During spring in Deosai, Nature is adorned with wildflowers that attract fluttering butterflies. Check out these highlights about Deosai during pleasant weather.
- Stargazing
- Visit Sheosar Lake
- Cross the bridge at Bara Pani
- Fish for trout
- Trekking
Stargazing
If you intend to camp once you get to the park, plan your journey to Bara Pani or Sheosar Lake, where lush landscapes await. Deosai’s dark skies provide an excellent chance for stargazing if you’ve journeyed from a crowded place in Pakistan.
Visit the Sheosar Lake
Numerous water reservoirs spread across the park; nevertheless, Sheosar Lake is the most extensive. The lake is the biggest in the park and among the world’s highest at nearly 13,600 feet. The lake is in a backdrop of wildflowers; on a clear day, you’ll spot the Nanga Parbat behind it.
Cross the bridge at Bara Pani
Several water bodies residing in Deosai include Bara Pani and Kaala Pani, along with two streams you must ford to arrive at the lake. A jeep can easily drive Kaala Pani through easily; however, a wooden bridge helps traverse Bara Pani. Since the bridge supports a limited load weight, you must drive across it without any passengers in the vehicle.
Fishing
Numerous trout exist in the region; however, snow trout stands out as the dominant species. One can typically secure a license from park representatives for money if you are eager to fish for trout. Bara Pani offers the top spot for fishing.
Trekking
Several routes navigate into and out of Deosai; foot exploration of the landscape can be facilitated by a nearby guide. Trekking should not be done by yourself in that area.
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An Easy Travel Guide for Excursions to Deosai National Park
During the year’s cold months, high elevation causes chilly temperatures, while summers can also bring snowy patches in the park. If you intend to stay overnight, you must be prepared by wearing warm clothing and providing ample food and water since it takes an hour to reach the closest village.
When heading to Deosai, Maintain the environment just as you discovered it while being polite and organizing your space to allow others to appreciate it, too.
Final thoughts on Deosai National Park
Situated amid Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region is Deosai National Park, which displays an impressive balance of natural wonder and fun activities. This high-altitude mountainous area is celebrated for its beautiful meadows and wealth of diverse wildlife and must be a priority for anyone interested in nature.
If you want excitement or tranquillity, this park is a great choice for your travel plans. Secure your luggage and start your adventure to this untouched wonderland filled with remarkable landscapes.
Make sure to express which aspect of the above dialogue appealed to you the most. It matters!
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Questions and Answers related to Deosai Park
What is Deosai Park known for?
Known for its magnificent vistas and diverse ecosystems, this Park makes a notable impression. It stands at number two among the highest plateaus present on Earth.
When is the ideal moment to explore Deosai?
You should come during summer if you prefer a warm climate for your stay. Expect unexpected weather conditions.
What route leads to Deosai National Park?
There are two main routes to reach Deosai National Park:
- A 30-kilometer trip from Skardu City is the preferred route among visitors.
- Chilam lies on an alternate route in the Astore Valley. Tourists find this route harder to reach.
What are the hotel alternatives within Deosai National Park?
Deosai National Park offers limited camping options like Bara Pani and Kala Pani.
What can I indulge in at Deosai National Park?
Opportunities exist in Deosai National Park for camping, trekking, fishing, wildlife observation, and stargazing, among other activities.
