Sheosar Lake
Sheosar Lake, often called The Heart of Deosai, is one of the most beautiful and peaceful lakes in northern Pakistan. It is located in the stunning Skardu Valley at an elevation of 4,142 meters (13,589 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world.
The word Sheosar comes from the Shina language, where “Sheo” means blind and “Sar” means lake. This high-altitude lake lies near the border of the Karakoram and Himalaya ranges, offering a magical view of the majestic Nanga Parbat Mountain in the background.
Sheosar Lake is surrounded by beautiful green plains, colorful flowers, and unique wildlife such as brown bears, golden marmots, and markhors, which is Pakistan’s national animal. The area is also home to many rare plants and birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Location of Sheosar Lake
Sheosar Lake is located in Deosai National Park, about 65 kilometers from Skardu city and 16 kilometers from Astore village. The park is famous for its wide green plains and peaceful environment, often called the “Land of Giants.”
The lake’s surroundings change colors with the seasons — green in summer, golden in autumn, and completely white during winter when it’s covered with snow.
Climate of Sheosar Lake
The weather at Sheosar Lake is unpredictable. The best time to visit is from June to August, when the weather is pleasant, butterflies fly around, and flowers bloom in many colors. During this time, you can enjoy clear blue skies and calm weather.
In winter (November to May), the lake remains frozen, and temperatures can drop to -27°C. Snow covers the entire area, and the surroundings turn completely white. Autumn brings a golden-brown touch to the grasslands around the lake.
How to Reach Sheosar Lake
To visit Sheosar Lake, travelers must first reach Deosai National Park, which lies between Skardu and Astore Valley.
There are two main routes to reach Deosai:
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From Skardu City – about 40 km drive
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From Astore Valley – a longer but scenic route
From Skardu Bazaar, you travel through Sadpara Village and Sadpara Lake on a zigzag mountain road. The road passes through beautiful but steep areas with tall mountains on one side and deep valleys on the other. Though the drive can be challenging, the views are worth it.
From Deosai, Sheosar Lake is about 22 km away. Jeeps are easily available in Skardu for around Rs. 18,000, but it is not recommended to take your own car because of the rough terrain.
Things to Do at Sheosar Lake
Boating
During summer and spring, boating in Sheosar Lake is a favorite activity. The cool blue water and colorful boats floating in the lake make a beautiful view. Visitors can also see fish swimming under the clear surface of the water.
Camping
With roaming clouds, green meadows, and snow-capped mountains all around, camping near Sheosar Lake is an unforgettable experience. Visitors often enjoy bonfires, BBQs, and singing around the camp. However, camping is recommended only in summer because the weather is more stable and there’s less chance of rain.
Fishing
Fishing is another popular activity at Sheosar Lake. The local people often help tourists with fishing and can even cook the fish in their traditional style. Many visitors prefer to catch and cook fish themselves, adding more fun to the adventure.
Hiking
Many tourists enjoy hiking from Deosai Plains to Sheosar Lake. A 5 to 6-day trek from Skardu through Ali Malik Mar, Barah Pani, and Chota Pani leads to the lake. The final part of the trail from Barah Pani to Sheosar Lake is about 15 km. This route is full of adventure and scenic beauty.
Sightseeing
The journey to Sheosar Lake is filled with stunning natural beauty — mountains, clear streams, green plains, and wildflowers. During sunset and moonrise, the view becomes even more magical as the lake reflects the changing colors of the sky.
Night Stay at Sheosar Lake
There are no hotels or guest houses near Sheosar Lake, so tourists who wish to stay overnight can camp near the lake. For those who prefer comfort, staying in Astore Village or Skardu city is a good option, as both are within driving distance.
Major Attractions Near Sheosar Lake
Deosai National Park
Known as the “Land of Giants,” Deosai National Park is one of the world’s highest plateaus. It’s home to a variety of animals, birds, and flowers. The park was originally created to protect the Brown Bear, but now it also supports many rare species. During spring, the plains are filled with colorful flowers and butterflies, making it a photographer’s dream.
Barah Pani
Located about 5 km from Sheosar Lake, Barah Pani is a small freshwater lake known for its calm water and beautiful sunset views.
Chota Pani (Kala Pani)
Just next to Barah Pani, Chota Pani or Kala Pani is another lovely freshwater stream. Its peaceful surroundings make it a great stop for visitors exploring the area.
Best Time to Visit Sheosar Lake
The best time to visit Sheosar Lake is from June to September, when the weather is clear and the roads are open. The summer months offer the most comfortable conditions for camping, boating, and hiking.
In late September, the lake and nearby plains turn golden, giving visitors a whole new view of Deosai’s natural beauty.
Contact Us to Visit the Place
We are RepeaTrip Tours, and we offer guided tours to Sheosar Lake, Deosai National Park, and other famous spots in Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan.
If you wish to explore this peaceful and heavenly place, contact us to visit the place and plan your journey with our local travel experts.