Bari La Lake Deosai is a breathtaking alpine lake nestled in the Deosai National Park in Pakistan. Deosai is one of the highest plateaus in the world, and Bari La Lake Deosai is situated at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level. Bari La Lake Deosai is surrounded by towering mountains and vast meadows, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Altitude of Bari La Lake Deosai
Bari La Lake Deosai is a high mountain pass at an altitude of 4,721 m (15,488 ft) above sea level, located in the North Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is one of the highest roads in the country.
Nestled within Deosai National Park, the Bari La Road leading to the summit is a rough, narrow, and notably nerve-wracking path. Reversing skills are a must; it’s exclusively for high-clearance 4×4 vehicles, although biking is an alternative. Commencing from Shigar, the trek spans 38 kilometers (23 miles).
Typically accessible for 2-3 months between July and September, this route links Deosai to the Gultari Sheno Shigar region. En route, an array of birds, plants, animals, and flowers offer a vibrant natural spectacle.
“La” is a Baltic word for a mountain pass and Bari La is a historical pass that connects Skardu and Shingo Shigar.
The journey to Bari La Lake Deosai is an adventure in itself. The road leading to the lake is narrow and winding, and the drive can be challenging. However, the stunning views of the landscape along the way are worth the effort.
Upon reaching the lake, visitors are greeted by crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding mountains. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and during the summer months, colorful wildflowers add to the beauty of the landscape. The serene atmosphere of the lake is perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility.
Complete the Travel Route to Bari la Deosai
A complete Deosai travel route for tourists and travelers that covers every corner of Deosai and its nearby hidden areas, Gultari, Minimarg, Rainbow Lake Domel, and Mini Deosai. After repelling the rough road from Skardu to Deosai, the road bifurcates at the top of Deosai. The road to the left is called ‘Bari Laa’ (locally middle/underwater road) which leads towards Gultari. Gultari is a 6-hour trek along the Bari La route from Deosai Peak.
Deosai to Bari La Lake
Bari Laa is the highest point of Deosai. Bari La Top is home to 5 mini lakes. More than 95% of tourists have never touched this area simply because of the lack of guidance and the harshness of the path.
Bari La via Dudial and Matial villages along the crystal clear river to Faranshat. Faranshat is a military area. Deosai to PWD Guesthouse of Faranshat is a free zone. Maneuvering in this area without entry clearance is not permitted. This path again splits into two branches, the left route goes to Gultari Shakma which is part of the Line of Control (LOC) with India and does not allow anyone to visit there. The right side of the route will connect you to Gultari Khas, locals and tourists who have entry permits can only go to Gultari Khas.
Deosai to Murtaza Top
The other way to Gultari is from Murtaza Peak. Follow Deosai road from Skardu to Kala Pani before reaching Sheosar Lake. The path splits into two, one leads to Murtaza peak which is a 2 to 2.5-hour journey from Deosai. The other name of Murtaza Peak is Mini Deosai, very famous for its amazing view of nature. From the Murtaza Top to move forward to Gultari or Minimarg requires an entry permit. A permit is required to enter these border areas.
At Murtaza Top, the two roads connecting Gultari and Minimurg diverge. A left turn leads to Gultari, about a 45-minute drive from Murtaza Peak. However, the right road leads to the Burzil Top intersecting with the route to Minimarg.
Deosai to Burzil Top
The recommended route is via Chilim, which involves an hour’s walk from Chilim to Burzil Peak. From Burzil top, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the 80 Brigade Headquarters at Minimarg. To access Domel Rainbow Lake, a permit from the headquarters is necessary. This scenic lake is a well-known tourist attraction in Domel Minimarg, just a 30-minute drive from the Minimarg headquarters.
It’s important to note that Minimarg Kamri, along with Gultari Shakma, lies within the LoC (Line of Control) and access is restricted to these areas.
After entering Deosai and crossing the Ali Malik Top traverse, you will continue winding dirt roads to reach this junction marked with the sign “GB-PWD Bari La” with distances to various Gultari villages.
Deosai lacks the features of a proper valley as it is a plateau, yet it carries some other features where cliffs appear quite often and sends down streams that give life to the many life forms below.
Our next stop was Bari La. A natural watershed draws the boundaries of Deosai and Shingo Shigar. Shingo Shigar has important historical value as it is one of the routes used by caravans and invading armies into Baltistan. It is said that in 1841 when Zorawar Singh died, the deposed ruler of Skardu, Raja Ahmed Shah, led a rebellion. Rulers from various fiefs of Baltistan united to arrest and imprison Bhawgwan Singh, the Dogra Thanedar of Skardu.
To quell this rebellion, Gulab Singh, the Maharaja of Kashmir, sent a well-equipped force of 3,000 under Wazir Lakhpat of Kishtwar. He reached Kargil and through Dras river he reached Baltistan through Shingo Shigar. He may have used the same route as us. After a brief skirmish at Shingo, Shigar marched into Baltistan and put down the rebellion. He arrested all the local rajas and also destroyed the fort of Kharpoche; many noblemen of Baltistan were hanged on his orders.
Bari La is mysterious in many ways. These passes were terrifying places that claimed countless lives. There are almost always dark clouds hovering here. As we entered its vicinity, we were met by a torrential downpour. Our wheels began to slide and the occasional creek crossing left us soaked in water that sent chills down our spines when combined with the bone-chilling wind. We collected twigs and cow dung on the way and hid in an overhanging stone by the road.
Hiking and Camping
Bari La Lake in Deosai is reputed to be a haven for apparitions and fairies, reputedly hindering entry for newcomers. This could serve as a deterrent against unwanted intrusion. It stands as an isolated and desolate location, devoid of any visible signs of life for kilometers in every direction.
Bari La Lake Deosai is also an ideal spot for hiking and camping. Visitors can set up camp near the lake and spend the night under the stars. The area is known for its wildlife, and visitors may be lucky enough to spot some of the rare species that call Deosai home.
Best Time to Visit Bari La Lake Deosai
The best time to visit Bari La Lake Deosai is between June and September, when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. During the winter months, the lake freezes over, creating a stunning winter wonderland.
In conclusion, Bari La Lake Deosai is a hidden gem in the Deosai National Park that should not be missed by nature enthusiasts. Its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an adventure in the great outdoors.
