Must-Try Foods In Deosai National Park (Skardu) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Deosai National Park, Skardu, Pakistan

The cuisine around Deosai National Park is heavily influenced by Balti culture, reflecting a blend of Tibetan, Central Asian, and South Asian flavors. Traditional Balti food is known for its uniqueness and aromatic spices, with a significant emphasis on barley, wheat, and meat dishes. While Deosai itself is a high-altitude national park largely uninhabited and lacking in vegetation, the surrounding areas like Skardu provide the cultural backdrop for the food scene. The diet in these regions has been shaped by the harsh climate and the need for high-energy foods that provide warmth and sustenance.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Deosai National Park, Skardu, Pakistan

1. Chapshoro (Non-Veg): A savory pastry filled with minced meat (commonly yak or chicken), onions, and local spices.
2. Skardu Bread (Veg): A dense, whole wheat bread that is a staple in the local diet.
3. Apricot Walnut Cake (Veg): A traditional cake made with the locally grown apricots and walnuts.
4. Butter Tea (Veg): A warm beverage made from tea leaves, yak butter, and salt.
5. Balti Curry (Non-Veg): A spicy curry usually made with chicken or mutton, cooked with a special blend of Balti spices.
6. Mantu (Non-Veg): Dumplings stuffed with minced meat and onions, steamed and served with yogurt or soup.
7. Thukpa (Non-Veg): A noodle soup originated from Tibet, often made with meat and vegetables.
8. Gyal (Veg): A whole wheat bread baked in a pan with a unique taste and texture, torched on the fire before eating.
9. Dal with Tandoori Roti (Veg): Lentils cooked with local spices and served with freshly baked tandoori roti.
10. Grilled Trout (Non-Veg): Freshwater trout, a local specialty, seasoned with herbs and grilled to perfection.

Top Famous Restaurants in Deosai National Park, Skardu, Pakistan

Deosai National Park itself is a protected area with no restaurants or permanent structures within its boundaries to conserve the natural environment. However, nearby towns such as Skardu offer a variety of dining options. Here are a few picks:

Concordia Motel & Restaurant

Address: Airport Road, Skardu

Famous Food: Skardu Bread (Veg) and Balti Curry (Non-Veg)

Shangrila Resort Restaurant

Address: Lower Kachura Lake, Skardu

Famous Food: Grilled Trout (Non-Veg)

Mountain Lodge

Address: Khaplu, Skardu

Famous Food: Mantu (Non-Veg) and Apricot Walnut Cake (Veg)

Karakoram Café

Address: Skardu City Centre

Famous Food: Dal with Tandoori Roti (Veg)

One Pound Steak & Grill

Address: Skardu Gilgit Road

Famous Food: Thukpa (Non-Veg)

Dewaan Khana

Address: Alamdar Road, Skardu

Famous Food: Butter Tea (Veg)

It is important for visitors to note that due to the remote nature of Deosai Plains, local eateries may not always be easily accessible, and it's advisable to plan meals in advance when heading into the park. Tourists are also encouraged to try local delicacies in the surrounding towns to enjoy authentic Balti cuisine.