ISLAMABAD – Deosai remains Pakistan’s most fragile natural treasures, and now Gilgit-Baltistan authorities decided complete ban on seasonal hotels, accommodation facilities, and all commercial activities within the boundaries of Deosai National Park starting from the upcoming tourist season.
The decision was confirmed through an official notification issued by the Office of Divisional Forest Officer, saying that the ban has been imposed under the direct orders of the Secretary of Forests, Wildlife, and Environment. According to notification, no seasonal hotel, lodging facility, or commercial setup of any kind will be allowed to operate or be established inside Deosai National Park.
Located at an extreme altitude above sea level, the world-famous Deosai Plains stretch across districts of Skardu, Kharmang, and Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan. The region is internationally known for its breathtaking landscape, rare biodiversity, and unique wildlife, all of which, authorities say, are under serious threat due to unchecked tourism activities.
The notification makes it clear that the ban has been imposed to safeguard Deosai’s natural environment, wildlife, and biological diversity. Officials warned that the presence of hotels and commercial ventures inside the park leads to environmental degradation, disruption of wildlife habitats, and violations of conservation laws.
In a strong warning to stakeholders, the Divisional Forest Officer has directed all hotel owners and operators to refrain from setting up any hotel, campsite, or new facility within park limits for the coming season. Authorities have emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found violating these orders.
This latest decision follows a series of safety and conservation concerns. Earlier in September this year, after a bear attack on renowned Pakistani singer Quratulain Balouch inside Deosai National Park, the provincial government had already imposed a ban on nighttime camping in the area, a restriction that remains in force for the current season.
With this sweeping ban, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has sent a clear message: Deosai’s survival comes before commercial interests, marking a turning point in how one of Pakistan’s most iconic natural landscapes will be protected in the future.
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