Overview
Sheosar Lake lies on the Deosai plateau at about 4,100 m, one of the highest lakes in the world. Its name, often said to mean blind lake, comes from the fact that it seems to have no visible outlet. The water is calm and a deep blue in the sun, and the lake is surrounded by open grassland that turns green and gold in summer, with low brown hills and snow peaks on the horizon.
The lake is the main sight of Deosai National Park and the usual goal of a long jeep day or a night in a tent. Visitors walk along the shore, watch for marmots and birds, and take in the huge sky. There is no shelter and no town for many kilometres, so the place feels remote and still.
Highlights
- The still blue water against the open plateau
- Wildflower meadows in July and August
- Marmots, birds and big skies
- Camping beside the lake under a star-filled sky
Best time to visit
The road to the plateau is normally open from about June to September, and July and August are the best months for flowers and green grass. Weather can change quickly, and nights are cold even in summer. In winter the plateau is deep in snow.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Good
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Good
- OctOctober: Not ideal
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Islamabad (ISB), then to Skardu (KDU), and take a jeep from Skardu via Satpara Lake onto the plateau, about three to four hours to the lake. A second track comes up from Astore via Chilam. Use a local driver who knows the tracks.
What to expect
The ride is bumpy, and altitude is the main challenge: at over 4,000 m, headaches and tiredness are common. There are no hotels or shops, only a few basic campsites, so bring food, water and warm layers even in July.
Practical tips
- Spend a night in Skardu first to adjust to the altitude before going above 4,000 m.
- Bring a warm jacket, hat and rain layer: the weather changes quickly.
- Do not feed or approach wildlife, and take all rubbish away.
- Check entry fees and park rules with your operator before you go.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Sheosar Lake?
About 4,100 m above sea level, which is why the air is thin and the nights are cold.
Can I camp at the lake?
Yes, at the campsites near the shore, with tents and gear from Skardu. Follow the park rules and take all rubbish with you.
How long does it take to get there?
About three to four hours by jeep from Skardu, so most people spend a night on the plateau.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Uzair889 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Sareerhm (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Muhammad Ishaq (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
