Spotting Brown Bears at Deosai Plains
A wildlife lover's guide to exploring the Land of Giants and Sheosar Lake.
The Deosai Plains — the 'Land of Giants' — form one of the highest plateaus on earth and a protected national park famous for the Himalayan brown bear. This guide covers when to go, what wildlife you'll see, and how to visit Sheosar Lake.
The Himalayan brown bear & other wildlife
Deosai National Park was created largely to protect the endangered Himalayan brown bear, and the plateau is one of its last strongholds. Sightings are never guaranteed and bears keep their distance, but you are very likely to see golden marmots, foxes, and a rich variety of high-altitude birds.
Sheosar Lake
The centrepiece of any Deosai trip is Sheosar Lake, a high-altitude lake that mirrors the surrounding peaks on a still day. In summer the plains around it erupt with wildflowers, creating one of the most striking landscapes in Pakistan.
How & when to visit Deosai
Deosai is reached by 4x4 jeep, most commonly from Skardu (and also from the Astore side). It is only accessible when snow-free, usually from around July to September. Most travellers visit on a full-day trip from Skardu, though keen photographers can camp overnight near the lake.
Tips for Deosai
The plateau sits at around 4,000 m and is cold and exposed even in summer, so pack warm layers and strong sun protection. There are no shops or fuel stations on Deosai — carry water, snacks and everything you need for the day.
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Anees Ahmad
Travel Expert
Resident travel expert sharing insights and tips for your journey.
