Deosai: The Land of Giants
Deosai, or the Land of Giants is a magic land, which is untouched and located high in the mountains of northern Pakistan. Gilgit-Baltistan is a big alpine plateau consisting of several mountains. In terms of altitude, it lies at an average of more than 4,000 (m) (13,000 ft) above sea level and thus the second-highest plateau after Tibet. Deosai is one of the most spectacular natural resources of Pakistan known to anyone well associated with its vast, open space, seldom found fauna and deadly fascinating sceneries.
A Landscape Like No Other
Deosai is an extreme world. Most of the year it is covered with a blanket of snow and anyone except the hardiest animals cannot reach it. But as the summer comes, –swift and fair–the snow is swept away to someplace, and in its place appear vast meadows green, and dotted with wildflowers. Deosai is its peculiar sights in all directions: panoramic views, skies so clear that the Milky Way is almost within reach.
Sheosar Lake: The Jewel of Deosai
The Sheosar Lake is beautiful and is at the centre of this plateau. This lake is named Sheosar because the name Sheo is a Shina word and is used to mean that the lake is blind: the word Sar means a lake therefore; Blind Lake. This beautiful and clear water lake extends to about 2.3 kilometers ( 1.4 miles ) long and 40 meters ( 130 foot ) deep. Sheosar Lake is surrounded by wildflowers and a snow-capped mountain ranges positioned behind; it is probably the most scenic location in the entire Pakistan.
Wildlife and Conservation
What makes Deosai a not-so-just scenic paradise in the region is that it is a vital habitat of the rarest of rare of its kind in the whole region. It is the best known the habitation of the almost extinct Himalayan brown bear as well. Because of conservation, the bear population is gradually increasing.
Other animals are snow leopards, ibex, Tibetan wolves, red fox and a wide range of birds like Himalayan monals, golden eagles and vultures. The high levels of biodiversity in Deosai translates into an important ecological zone and this has been guarded by the government as the Deosai National Park.
Cultural Significance and Local Legends
The Deosai name means land of giants and it is based on local Balti folklore which talks of supernatural creatures that used to roam the unending plains in the past. Isolation, huge spaces of land have made so many myths and stories making it a mystery and wonder experience of the trip.
In the past Deosai was a trade route between Skardu and the Astore Valley but seasonally in the summers because of the harshness of the climate.
How to Visit
The ideal season to visit Deosai is in late June to early September (after snow has melted) during which the meadows are at their blossom. These are accessed chiefly by this route through Skardu (via Sadpara Lake and Ali Malik Pass) and Astore (via Chilum and Burzil Pass).
The nature of the roads to the site has been upgraded, however to get to the site, a 4×4 vehicle is necessary and travellers should carry their necessary supplies as there are not very many facilities to be provided. Camping is an attraction and the calm atmosphere provides an unforgettable experience of spending a night under the stars.
Hotel Reego – A Great Base for Deosai Journey
Location: Hotel Reego is situated in the Skardu city so it is a comfortable place of residence before to and after the visit of Deosai.
Comfort: Has clean and spacious rooms that are modern and have traditional architecture.
Services: friendly staff and good hospitality.
Food: It has an in-house restaurant that offers local and continental food.
Parking & Safety: Secure parking and peaceful environment.
Plan Suggestions
Day1: Arrive in Skardu -> Check-in at Hotel Reego -> Visit Skardu city or the tourist hot-spots around it such as Shangrila or Satpara Lake.
Day2: Early morning departure for Deosai -> You will reach in destination after four hours and Spend the whole day exploring Deosai and Sheosar lake -> Return to Hotel Reego after spend the whole day in Deosai.
Conclusion
Deosai is not merely a tourist destination but it is an experience as you are exploring nature in its pure, unadulterated form. The magnificent meadows, the glittering Sheosar Lake and the exotic fauna makes Deosai a unique experience to its visitors. It is an area that will be remembered by those who want to experience adventure, being alone or be inspired by those giants. more read
