Ondra Poygah Gulmit Trek
Ondra Poygah is a famous historic community built wooden stair trek in Gulmit Gojal offering panoramic views of Attabad Lake Passu Cones and Gulmit Village.
ExploreDeosai Plains Entrance Astore
Astore Chilam, Gilgit-Baltistan
Overview
Situated in Astore District near the high alpine hamlet of Chilam the Astore entrance to Deosai National Park serves as the dramatic western gateway to the worlds second highest alpine plateau. Sitting at an elevation exceeding 3800 meters above sea level this entry point marks the boundary where the steep mountain gorges of Astore open up into vast rolling high altitude grasslands wild flower pastures and glacial melt streams. Regulated by the Gilgit Baltistan Wildlife Department the entrance point manages eco tourism conservation and entry permits for travelers heading across the plateau toward Sheosar Lake Bara Pani and Skardu. Frame by towering Himalayan ridges and lush summer vegetation the Astore side entrance offers visitors an immediate entry into untouched alpine wilderness thriving Himalayan brown bear habitats and scenic 4x4 mountain drives.
Highlights
- Official western entry gate and ranger check post for Deosai National Park via Astore
- Scenic transition point from steep Astore river gorges to vast alpine plateau grasslands
- Gateway route leading directly toward high altitude landmarks including Sheosar Lake
- Thriving habitat region for protected Himalayan brown bears marmots and endemic birds
- Breathtaking high altitude vantage views of surrounding snow capped Himalayan peaks
Things To Do
- Obtain park entry permits and register at the Gilgit Baltistan Wildlife Department check post
- Photograph the dramatic transition from rugged mountain gorges to vast rolling plateaus
- Spot high altitude alpine wildlife including Himalayan golden marmots and wild birds
- Begin high altitude 4x4 jeep safaris across the plateau toward Sheosar Lake and Bara Pani
- Enjoy a short rest stop and take in sweeping mountain views before entering the national park
Local Transportation
Accessible via a scenic 2.5 to 3 hour 4x4 jeep drive heading east from main Astore bazaar through Gorikot and Chilam.
Accommodation
Wildlife department guest rooms at Chilam, basic local tourist camps, or continue to eco camping sites at Sheosar Lake and Bara Pani.
Food & Cuisine
Roadside tea stalls and eateries at Chilam offer hot green tea, local chapshuro, dal lentils, hot soup, and simple travel meals.
Safety Information
High altitude location over 3800 meters. Stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness and avoid straying alone into wilderness bear habitats.
Travel Tips
Keep original CNIC or passport ready for ranger registration, bring warm windproof thermal jackets, and carry extra cash as payment facilities are non existent.