Travel Guide to Deosai National Park
Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Deosai National Park, one of the world's highest plateaus, nestled in the heart of Pakistan's majestic mountains.
The Enchanting Plains of Deosai National Park
Nestled in the heart of Pakistan, Deosai National Park is a vast and breathtaking plateau that stretches over 3,000 square kilometers. Known as the 'Land of Giants,' this park is situated at an average altitude of 4,114 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest plateaus in the world. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, from lush green meadows to snow-capped peaks, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan brown bear, golden marmots, and colorful wildflowers. Deosai National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The park's pristine environment provides an ideal setting for activities such as trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting. The Sheosar Lake, located within the park, is one of the highest lakes in the world and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Nanga Parbat. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the azure sky, creating a picture-perfect scene that is a photographer's dream. Visiting Deosai National Park is a journey into the heart of nature, where the air is pure and the landscapes are untouched by modern development. The park is accessible from the towns of Skardu and Astore, and the best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is most favorable. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the plains or seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Deosai National Park promises an unforgettable experience.
Local tips in Deosai National Park
- Best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is most favorable.
- Carry warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer.
- Hire a local guide for an enriched experience and to navigate the park safely.
- Bring your own camping gear if you plan to stay overnight in the park.
- Ensure you have a reliable vehicle, preferably a 4x4, as the terrain can be challenging.
Popular Attractions in Deosai National Park
Deosai National Park offers visitors a breathtaking landscape of vast meadows, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear streams. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including brown bears, Himalayan ibex, and snow leopards, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy camping under the starry skies, trekking through stunning trails, and witnessing the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this high-altitude region. The park also holds cultural significance, with ancient petroglyphs and historical sites waiting to be explored. A visit to Deosai National Park promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Pakistan's wilderness.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Manthokha Waterfall, a natural wonder in Kharmang, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
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Explore the mesmerizing Katpana Desert in Skardu, Pakistan, a stunning blend of golden sands and majestic mountains, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
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Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Basho Valley, a hidden gem in Skardu, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Khamosh Waterfall, a hidden gem in Gilgit-Baltistan, where nature's splendor awaits in serene surroundings.
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Discover the ancient allure of Manthal Buddha Rock, a historical landmark and hiking paradise in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Deosai National Park, a true gem of Pakistan's natural heritage.
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Discover the breathtaking Sarfaranga Cold Desert, a unique blend of stunning landscapes and tranquil beauty in Skardu, Pakistan.
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Discover the stunning beauty of Sheosar Lake, a serene oasis in Deosai National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Blind Lake Shigar, a natural paradise in Skardu, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Discover the stunning beauty of Sadpara Lake Viewpoint in Gilgit-Baltistan, where breathtaking landscapes and serene waters await every traveler.
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Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Hussainabad Waterfall, an unforgettable natural gem in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chunda Valley, a hidden paradise in Skardu, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the unspoiled beauty of Chota Pani in Deosai National Park, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await your discovery.
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich wildlife of Deosai Top, a high-altitude paradise in Pakistan, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
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Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Marsur Rock, a must-visit tourist attraction near Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Experience the serene beauty and thrilling adventures at Cold Desert Villas, your gateway to the majestic landscapes of Skardu.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chunda, the Switzerland of Gilgit Baltistan, where lush valleys and majestic mountains await every traveler.
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Halma Ranga, a serene tourist attraction in Skardu, Pakistan, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
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Experience the majestic landscapes of Skardu on horseback and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Baltistan.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Malturo Rock Castle in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, a hidden gem for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
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Explore the breathtaking K2 Base Camp, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Karakoram range.
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Explore the surreal beauty of Chocolate Rocks in Skardu, where nature's artistry creates stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
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Discover the stunning serenity of Sheosar Lake, a hidden gem in the breathtaking Deosai National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Explore the Hidden View Point Ghasing: A breathtaking destination offering stunning vistas and a tranquil escape into nature's wonders.
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Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Skardu with Local Tourist Guide Hiker Bashovi, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Deosai Camping, nestled in the heart of Deosai National Park, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Experience the breathtaking vistas of Ringchan Rock in Skardu, a must-visit viewpoint showcasing the majestic beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Discover the stunning Chumik Hotong Dunes in Skardu, a mesmerizing desert landscape perfect for adventure and tranquility in Pakistan's majestic mountains.
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Explore the Balti Museum in Skardu to uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Baltistan through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of River Indus in Skardu, where nature's serenity meets stunning mountain vistas.
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Discover the breathtaking tranquility of Rexheer Meadows, a hidden paradise in Skardu, where nature’s beauty awaits every traveler.
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Experience the serene beauty and family-friendly atmosphere of Shalimar Park, a must-visit tourist attraction in Skardu's stunning landscape.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Burji la Lake, a serene oasis in Skardu, Pakistan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Experience the serene beauty of Skardu at White Palace Camping Site, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Explore the untouched beauty of Bari la Top, a stunning hiking area in Skardu, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
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Explore the majestic northern landscapes with North Explorers Treks & Tours - your gateway to adventure and culture in Skardu.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas with expert-guided treks and tours in Skardu, your adventure awaits with Himalaya Treks and Tours.
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Discover the breathtaking Thorgu Waterfall in Gilgit-Baltistan, a serene escape into nature's beauty with stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
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Discover the majestic Manthal Rock in Skardu, a historic natural wonder adorned with ancient carvings amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes.
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Discover the serene beauty of Ginyal Shingoshikar Gultari, a tranquil retreat in the majestic Skardu region of Pakistan, perfect for nature lovers and explorers.
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Explore the Deosai National Park Museum for an enriching experience of unique wildlife and cultural heritage in Astore, Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Experience the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature at Skardu Mountain Wheels in the heart of Skardu.
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Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of the Organic Village near Kharpocho Fort in Skardu, Pakistan, where nature and tradition unite.
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Discover the historic Manthal Tower in Skardu, a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Khantabsa Valley, a hidden gem in the heart of Skardu, Pakistan.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Skurdu Valley, a hidden gem in northern Pakistan, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and wildlife of the Deosai Plains at the Brown Bear Watch Tower, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Skardu from Twilight View Point, where breathtaking sunsets meet majestic mountain vistas.
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Explore the stunning natural beauty and serene tranquility of Wanderers Lake in Gamba Skardu, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Saher Viewpoint and Wooden Bridge in Skardu, where nature and culture intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Shabz Waterfall, a serene escape in the heart of Skardu's stunning landscapes.
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Experience the serene beauty of Northlanders Resort in Skardu, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Meer Villas Site, a hidden gem in Skardu's enchanting landscapes.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gamba View Point in Shigri Bala, where tranquility meets stunning mountain views in the heart of Skardu.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Deosai National Park
When is the best time to go to Deosai National Park?
Local Phrases about Deosai National Park
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- Helloسلام
[salaam] - Goodbyeخدا حافظ
[khuda hafiz] - Yesہاں
[haan] - Noنہیں
[nahin] - Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم
[baraah karam] - Thank youشکریہ
[shukriya] - Excuse me/Sorryمعذرت
[maazrat] - How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
[aap kaise hain?] - Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
[theek hoon. aap?] - Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
[kya aap angrezi boltay hain?] - I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آرہا
[mujhe samajh nahi araha]
- Helloسلام
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
[baraah karam menu dekhna chahta hoon] - I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
[mein gosht nahi khaata] - Cheers!خوش رہیں!
[khush rahain] - I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادا کرنا چاہتا ہوں
[baraah karam ada karna chahta hoon]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
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- Help!مدد!
[madad!] - Go away!چلے جاؤ!
[chale jao!] - Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
[police ko bulao!] - Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
[doctor ko bulao!] - I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
[mein gum ho gaya hoon] - I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
[mein bemar hoon]
- Help!مدد!
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- I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں۔۔۔
[mein khareedna chahta hoon...] - I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
[mein sirf dekh raha hoon] - How much is it?یہ کتنا ہے؟
[yeh kitna hai?] - That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
[yeh bohat mehnga hai] - Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
[kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں۔۔۔
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- What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
[waqt kya hua hai?] - It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
[aik bajay hain] - Half past (10)دس بج کر آدھا ہو گیا
[das baj kar aadha ho gaya] - Morningصبح
[subah] - Afternoonدوپہر
[dopehar] - Eveningشام
[shaam] - Yesterdayگزشتہ دن
[guzishta din] - Todayآج
[aaj] - Tomorrowکل
[kal] - 1ایک
[aik] - 2دو
[do] - 3تین
[teen] - 4چار
[chaar] - 5پانچ
[paanch] - 6چھے
[chhay] - 7سات
[saat] - 8آٹھ
[aath] - 9نو
[no] - 10دس
[das]
- What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
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- Where's a/the...?کہاں ہے...؟
[kahan hai...?] - What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
[pata kya hai?] - Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے (نقشہ پر) دکھا سکتے ہیں؟
[kya aap mujhe (naqsha par) dikhha sakte hain?] - When's the next (bus)?اگلا (باس) کب ہے؟
[agla (bus) kab hai?] - A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (سے ....)
[aik ticket (se ....)]
- Where's a/the...?کہاں ہے...؟
History of Deosai National Park
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Deosai National Park, known as the 'Land of Giants,' is believed to have been a significant area during the ancient civilizations of the region. The vast plateau, situated at an average elevation of 4,114 meters above sea level, has been home to various nomadic tribes for centuries. The name 'Deosai' itself is derived from the Tibetan language, indicating the long-standing cultural exchanges in this high-altitude region.
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The Deosai Plains were part of the extensive trade routes known as the Silk Road, which connected the East and West. Traders and caravans traversed these high-altitude plains, contributing to the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures. The remnants of ancient trade routes and artifacts found in the area bear testament to Deosai's role in this historical network of commerce.
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During the British colonial period in the 19th century, Deosai attracted the attention of explorers and cartographers. Sir Martin Conway, a notable mountaineer and explorer, documented his journey through Deosai in the late 19th century. His accounts provide valuable insights into the geography, flora, and fauna of the region during that time.
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In 1993, the Government of Pakistan declared Deosai as a National Park to protect its unique ecosystem and biodiversity. This decision was driven by the need to conserve the habitat of the Himalayan brown bear, among other endangered species. The park spans an area of approximately 3,000 square kilometers and is one of the highest plateaus in the world.
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The Deosai Plains hold immense cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities. The Balti people, who reside in the surrounding areas, have numerous legends and folklore associated with Deosai. It is often considered a place of mystery and awe, with tales of supernatural occurrences and mythical creatures enriching the cultural tapestry of the region.
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In recent years, various national and international organizations have collaborated to enhance conservation efforts in Deosai National Park. Initiatives include wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement programs. These efforts aim to preserve the park's unique biodiversity while promoting sustainable tourism that benefits local communities.
Deosai National Park Essentials
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Deosai National Park is located in the northern region of Pakistan, spanning the districts of Skardu, Ghanche, and Astore. The nearest major city is Skardu, which has a small domestic airport, Skardu Airport, with flights from Islamabad. From Skardu, you can hire a 4x4 vehicle or join a guided tour to reach the park. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Islamabad to Skardu, a journey that takes around 20-24 hours. Another option is to drive from Gilgit to Deosai, which takes approximately 6-8 hours.
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Transportation within Deosai National Park is primarily by 4x4 vehicles due to the rugged terrain. Guided tours often include transportation, and renting a 4x4 with a driver is recommended for independent travelers. The park itself is vast and remote, so it is essential to have a reliable mode of transport. Public transport options are limited to the outskirts of the park, and most visitors rely on private vehicles or tour operators for access.
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The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). It is advisable to carry sufficient cash as ATMs and card payment facilities are scarce within and around Deosai National Park. Major cities like Skardu have ATMs, but it is best to withdraw cash before heading into the park. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments in Skardu, but smaller vendors and rural areas usually require cash payments.
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Deosai National Park is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. The park is remote, so ensure you have a reliable guide or travel with a reputable tour company. Avoid venturing alone, especially at night. Wildlife encounters, altitude sickness, and harsh weather conditions can pose risks, so come prepared. Always inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant.
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In case of emergency, the first point of contact should be your tour guide or driver. For medical emergencies, the nearest facilities are in Skardu. It is crucial to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuations and medical treatment. Carry a basic first-aid kit, and familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness. For immediate assistance, you can contact local authorities or the police at 15. Satellite phones are advisable for communication in remote areas.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers and bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Dress modestly, especially in villages and around religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Give up your seat for elders. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a 'Salaam' (peace). Handshakes are common for men; women may place their hand on their chest as a greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
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To experience Deosai National Park like a local, consider staying in guesthouses or homestays in nearby villages for an authentic experience. Engage with local guides, who can share insights into the park's history and wildlife. Visit during the summer months (June to September) for the best weather and blooming wildflowers. Pack out all trash and leave no trace to help preserve the park's natural beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the Milky Way in the clear night skies of Deosai.
Trending Landmarks in Deosai National Park
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Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park
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Passu Cones Viewpoint
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Shandur National Park
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Kharphocho Fort
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Katpana Desert
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Basho Valley (Sultanabad Medow)
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Sarfaranga Cold Desert Shigar
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Manthal Buddha Rock
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Shausar Lake
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Deosai Top & Sadpara Broque
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Blind Lake Shigar
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Soq Valley
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Hussainabad Waterfall
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Deosai Top
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Sheosar Lake
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