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Cascade Resorts • Skardu • Ghanche

Deosai Plains: The Land of Giants Above Skardu

One of the world’s highest plateaus, with wildflower meadows, Sheosar Lake and Himalayan brown bears.

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99 KMFrom Resort

3 HOURSDrive Time

4,114 MAvg Elevation

JUN to SEPBest Season

Stay near Deosai PlainsCascade Resorts, 99 km awayBook Now

About the Plains

Discover Deosai Plains in Deosai National Park

Deosai Plains, whose name means Land of Giants, is a vast high altitude plateau in Gilgit Baltistan with an average elevation of about 4,114 metres (13,497 feet), often described as one of the highest plateaus in the world. It was declared Deosai National Park in 1993 to protect the endangered Himalayan brown bear.

From our resort it is about 99 km, roughly 3 hours by road. From Skardu, the route climbs past Sadpara Lake onto the Deosai Road, a jeep track across the plateau, so plan it as a full day trip.

In July and August the grasslands burst into wildflowers, earning the plateau the nickname Roof of Flowers. The brown bear population, which had fallen to about 19 before the park was created, has since recovered to more than 70. At the western end lies Sheosar Lake, about 2.3 km long, where Nanga Parbat can be seen on clear days.

Getting There

How to Get There from Cascade Resorts

Start very early

Travel about 99 km, around 3 hours by road, from Cascade Resorts. Leave at first light.

Go via Sadpara Lake

From Skardu, drive past Sadpara Lake and join the road onto the plateau.

Use a 4x4 jeep

The road across the plateau is a jeep track, so a 4x4 is recommended.

Get your permit

An entry permit is required at the park checkposts.

Return before dark

Weather on the plateau changes quickly, so leave plenty of time for the drive back.

Experiences

6 Things to Do on the Plains

Wildflower Meadows

See the plateau covered in wildflowers in July and August, the famous Roof of Flowers.

Sheosar Lake

Visit the high alpine lake at the western end of the park and look for Nanga Parbat on clear days.

Wildlife Watching

Look for Himalayan brown bears, marmots, foxes and wolves from a safe distance.

Bara Pani

Stop at Bara Pani, known for wildlife sightings along the stream.

Camping

Camp at designated sites such as Kala Pani and Sheosar Lake, which have basic facilities.

Big Sky Photography

Wide open plains, snowy ridges and huge skies make the plateau a photographer's dream.

Plan Your Visit

Visiting Deosai Plains? Stay 99 km away.

Return each evening to riverside rooms, fresh meals and mountain views at Cascade Resorts.

Check Availability

Seasons

Best Time to Visit Deosai Plains

June to September is the season. The plateau is usually snowbound from November to May, so check the road before you go.

JuneRoad usually opens, snow melting

July to AugustWildflowers and peak season

SeptemberClear skies, fewer visitors

October to MayClosed or snowbound, avoid

Be Prepared

Tips Before You Go

Carry warm layers and rain protection, as the weather changes fast at over 4,000 metres.
Use a 4x4 jeep and an experienced local driver.
Keep a safe distance from bears and all wildlife, and never feed them.
Do not pick wildflowers or leave any litter on the plateau.
Ask our team to check the road status and arrange an early start.

In Focus

A Closer Look

Deosai Plains grassland and Sheosar Lake with snowy ridges, Deosai National Park, Gilgit Baltistan — Deosai Plains, Gilgit Baltistan

Keep Exploring

More Places to Visit Near Cascade Resorts

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Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Deosai Plains from Cascade Resorts?

It is about 99 km, around 3 hours by road, so plan it as a full day trip.

What does Deosai mean?

Deosai means Land of Giants.

When is the plateau open?

June to September is the best time. The plateau is usually snowbound from November to May, and visits outside the season are not advised.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. An entry permit is required at the park checkposts.

Can I see bears there?

The park is home to more than 70 Himalayan brown bears. Sightings are possible, but always keep a safe distance.

Plan Your Stay

Visit the Land of Giants, Then Rest by the River

Make Cascade Resorts your base for Skardu and Ghanche, with warm rooms, fresh meals and mountain views.

Explore

Cascade Resorts Ghawari

Shyok River Valley Road, Ghawari, Ghanche District, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan

Cascade Resorts Thorgu

Sunset Grill

Thorgu, Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan

Call us: +92 315 555 4648
Call us: +92 355 555 4648

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