Sheosar Lake – The Shimmering Jewel of Deosai Plains!
Sitting at an altitude of 4,142 meters (13,589 ft) in the heart of Deosai National Park, Sheosar Lake is a breathtaking alpine lake that reflects the towering snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and Karakoram. Surrounded by grassy plains, wildflowers, and untouched skies, the lake is considered one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in the world.
“Sheosar” means ‘blind lake’ in the local Shina language — a name that hints at its deep stillness and mystery.
Why Visit Sheosar Lake?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 💧 Glacial Blue Waters | Deep, clear, and pristine — perfect reflections |
| 🏔️ Mountain Views | On clear days, see Nanga Parbat towering in the distance |
| 🌸 Wildflowers | Thousands of species bloom mid-July |
| 📷 Photography Paradise | Stunning light, color, and symmetry |
| 🦅 Wildlife Spotting | Birds, marmots, and even brown bears (from afar) |
| 🌌 Stargazing & Silence | Ideal for night sky photography and peaceful camping |
Routes to Sheosar Lake
Location & Accessibility
Region: Deosai National Park, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: ~4,142 meters
Access Routes:From Astore via Chilum → Sheosar (3–4 hours by jeep)
From Skardu via Sadpara → Bara Pani → Sheosar (4–5 hours by jeep)
Vehicle Type: 4×4 Jeep required (unpaved roads, high altitude)
Open Season: Mid-June to Early October (closed in winter due to snow)
The Astore route is smoother; Skardu route is longer but passes through scenic Deosai meadows.
Things to Do at Sheosar Lake
| Activity | Experience |
|---|---|
| 📸 Photography | Morning reflections, golden hour, and mirror views |
| 🧘 Relax by the Water | Meditate, reflect, or write in silence |
| 🥾 Trekking Nearby | Hike around the lake or into Deosai’s flower plains |
| 🐦 Birdwatching | Spot migratory birds and Deosai wetland species |
| 🏕️ Picnic or Camp | Day picnics or tent stays in designated safe areas |
| 🌌 Astrophotography | Milky Way and clear night skies with no light pollution |
Best Time to Visit
| Month | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Mid-June to July | Wildflowers begin to bloom, lake melts fully |
| August | Clear skies, vibrant colors, best visibility |
| September – Early October | Golden grasses, peaceful atmosphere |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov–May) | Closed due to snow and inaccessibility |
Things to Do in Golaghmuli Valley
Attend Shandur Polo Festival (Early July)
Trout Fishing in Phander River & Lake
Trekking to Shandur Top or nearby alpine meadows
Photography – Landscapes, starry nights, village life
Camping – Near lakes or open meadows
Horse Riding (offered by locals during festivals)
Cultural Experience – Interact with Wakhi-speaking villagers and enjoy local food like chapshuro, qeymaq, and shelanchay (butter tea)
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually