Deosai Plains Ski Expedition

The Deosai Plains, situated in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, are renowned for their expansive high-altitude plateaus rather than prominent towering peaks. However, the region's undulating terrain and surrounding elevations offer opportunities for ski mountaineering, especially during the winter months when the area is blanketed in snow.​

Ski Mountaineering in the Deosai Region:

In 2007, a team of skiers undertook a crossing of the Deosai Plains from Astore to Skardu. Their journey involved ascending to the Chhachor Pass at approximately 4,300 meters, followed by descents towards Sheosar Lake and across the plains. They reported encountering several ridges and saddles that provided enjoyable powder runs, highlighting the area's potential for ski mountaineering.

Additionally, the Deosai Ski Traverse is a winter adventure tour that offers skiing experiences across the snow-covered landscapes of the Deosai Plateau, providing participants with thrilling skiing opportunities amidst breathtaking mountain views.

While specific peaks for ski descents are not widely documented, the surrounding Deosai Mountains, with elevations exceeding 5,500 meters (18,000 feet), may offer suitable terrains for experienced ski mountaineers. It's essential to conduct thorough research and consult with local guides or tour operators familiar with the region's topography and conditions before planning such expeditions.

Here are some notable mountains in the vicinity that, when climbed, offer potential for skiing descents:​

1. Shatung Peak (5,260 meters): Situated within the Deosai Plateau, Shatung Peak stands as a prominent summit accessible to climbers. The ascent involves traversing scree slopes and snowy ridges, culminating in a panoramic view that includes Nanga Parbat and other towering peaks. While specific accounts of skiing down Shatung Peak are limited, its snow-covered slopes suggest potential for ski descents, provided conditions are favorable and the skier possesses the requisite skills.

2. Nanga Parbat (8,126 meters): Visible from the Deosai Plateau, Nanga Parbat is the ninth-highest mountain globally and is renowned for its challenging climbing routes. Due to its technical difficulty and high risk, it is generally not considered suitable for ski descents, especially for those without extensive high-altitude mountaineering and skiing experience.

3. Sirwali Peak (6,326 meters): Located at the end of the Shaunter Valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sirwali Peak lies approximately 25 to 30 kilometers from the Deosai region. While the peak's proximity to Deosai makes it a point of interest, current access restrictions due to its location near the line of control may limit opportunities for climbing and skiing.

It's important to note that the Deosai Plains themselves are characterized by rolling, grassy terrain rather than steep mountainous slopes, making them less suitable for traditional skiing activities. However, the surrounding peaks offer potential for ski mountaineering adventures. Before planning such excursions, thorough research into current access regulations, local conditions, and necessary permits is essential. Additionally, consulting with local guides experienced in the region's mountaineering and skiing conditions can provide valuable insights and enhance safety.

Day 1. Islamabad – Arrival & Pre-Expedition Briefing

Arrive in Islamabad and check in to your hotel. Tonight, meet your ski mountaineering team, review expedition logistics, get your gear organized, and receive essential briefings on high-altitude winter safety.

Day 2. Islamabad → Astore (Flight & Drive)

Fly to Gilgit (weather permitting), then drive onward to Astore for acclimatization. Use this day to fine-tune your ski touring gear and adjust to the altitude near Chilum/Astore—a critical start for your high-mountain adaptation.

Day 3. Astore → Chilm (Chilim)

Continue by jeep to Chilum (Chilem), the last settlement before Deosai. Finalize equipment checks, ski tuning, and prepare mentally and physically for the trail ahead. This quiet village marks your jump-off point into the snowy expanse.

Day 4. Chilum → Sheosar Lake (Camp)

Set out on snow-covered terrain toward Sheosar Lake, ascending saddles and ridges en route. Pitch camp near the lake and enjoy panoramic views at 4,250 m. Consider practicing ski descents from nearby gentle slopes to warm up your ski mountaineering technique.

Day 5. Sheosar Lake → Kala Pani (Camp)

Depart from the lake area, climbing modest undulations toward Kala Pani. This segment offers your first real taste of the climb-and-ski rhythm: ascend snowy rises, pause to savor views, then swoosh down across the plateau.

Day 6. Kala Pani → Bara Pani (Camp)

Continue traversing the plateau, striking camp by Bara Pani. Tackle gentle peaks around camp for additional ski runs—a perfect blend of upward passion and downward adrenaline.

Day 7. Bara Pani → Ali / Malik Top (Camp)

Climb toward higher ridgelines—Ali or Malik Top—seeking stable snowpack for thrilling descents. This day epitomizes ski mountaineering: summit, enjoy the panoramic vantage, then ski down into pristine valleys.

Day 8. Ali/Malik Top → Deosai Top → Satpara → Skardu (Camp/Hotel)

Reach Deosai Top—the plateau’s highest stretch—then descend toward Satpara Valley. Ski transitions merge with jeep travel en route to Skardu’s warmth and rest, a cushioned welcome after several alpine camps.

Day 9. Skardu (Rest & Maintenance Day)

A well-earned rest day in Skardu. Tune and repair your skis, review route planning, and recharge while out of the snow zone.

Day 10. Skardu → Islamabad (Flight) / Chilas (Drive, Contingency)

Fly back to Islamabad—or if flights are delayed, drive to Chilas. Transition out of mountaineering mode but stay alert to potential itinerary shifts due to weather.

Day 11. Chilas → Islamabad (Drive)

Complete your return journey to Islamabad, allowing for flexible travel and contingency due to mountain weather. Unpack gear and reflect on your alpine adventure.

Day 12. Islamabad – Wrap-Up & Departure

Use this spare day for sightseeing or final debriefing before your flight home. Celebrate the completion of a demanding—and rewarding—20-day ski mountaineering expedition.

Day 1. Arrival in Islamabad

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Transfer to hotel and rest after your journey. Final gear check and expedition briefing.

Day 2. Islamabad – Gear Prep & City Exploration

Spare day for any last-minute gear shopping or rental. Explore Islamabad’s key attractions like Faisal Mosque or Margalla Hills. Overnight in Islamabad.

Day 3. Islamabad to Astore

Early morning domestic flight to Gilgit (weather dependent). Drive to Astore via Jaglot. Overnight stay in Astore to begin acclimatization.

Day 4. Acclimatization in Astore

Spend a full day acclimatizing at altitude. Optional short hikes in the surrounding hills. Final preparations for entering Deosai.

Day 5. Astore to Deosai Entry Point – Base Camp Setup

Travel via 4x4 jeeps into Deosai National Park. Establish a base camp at a strategic location. Light skiing activities to test equipment and get familiar with snow conditions.

Day 6–9. Skiing in Deosai Plains – Exploration Phase 1

Begin extended skiing sessions across Deosai’s snowfields. Explore vast backcountry trails, wildlife sightings, and frozen rivers. Set up temporary camps as needed for deeper access. Routes may include areas toward Bara Pani and Kala Pani.

Day 10. Rest & Weather Buffer Day

Use this day for rest or in case of inclement weather. Stay at a safe base camp, perform gear maintenance, or do light skiing.

Day 11–13. Skiing Expedition – Exploration Phase 2

Continue skiing deeper into the plains, possibly reaching Sheosar Lake if conditions permit. Camp along the route. Focus on photography, snowpack studies, and deep powder exploration.

Day 14. Ski Traverse to Thale La / Descent Begins

Begin the descent from Deosai towards Thale Khor, using a mix of skiing and 4x4 transport. Establish camp or use homestays (if accessible). Enjoy a lower-altitude rest.

Day 15. Thale Khor – Cultural Day & Relaxation

Interact with local communities. Cultural immersion and storytelling from Baltistan. Optional light hiking/skiing in the area.

Day 16. Thale Khor to Skardu

Drive to Skardu city. Check into hotel, enjoy a warm shower, and resupply. Explore Skardu bazaar and local sights.

Day 17. Rest Day in Skardu

Leisure day in Skardu for rest, gear cleaning, and sightseeing (Shangrila Lake, Shigar Fort). Optional: local ski session near Satpara area.

Day 18. Weather Buffer or Optional Day Tour

Spare day in case of flight delays or further exploration. Optional day trip to Khaplu or Hushe Valley (road conditions permitting).

Day 19. Flight to Islamabad

Morning flight from Skardu to Islamabad (weather dependent). Transfer to hotel and celebrate the completion of the expedition. Debriefing and farewell dinner.

Day 20. Departure from Islamabad

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport. Depart with unforgettable memories and a camera full of frozen adventures.