Chillum

Chillum, or Chilam, is the last village in Astore District and is the gateway to start the next journey toward the world highest plain known as Deosai. It is also known as Chillum Chowki due to police check post there. It is a lush green area with grazing fields and crops, and number of running streams.

Gateway to Deosai National Park

Chillum is an high-altitude village at an elevation of 12,696 feet. It has cold weather due to several snow-capped peaks around it. So, travelers must prepare themselves to face cold winds and lower oxygen level. In the winter season, it receives heavy snow and it becomes difficult to access it in winter. So, the road from Astore to Skardu via Deosai National Park is only available in summer season from mid of June to October. Road from Astore side is not in good condition, but still suitable to continue journey using 4x4 vehicle. The trek has sharp ascends and descends on the winding road, so extra care is required while driving there. 4x4 vehicle is recommended to explore the Deosai National Park due to unpaved and rocky terrains as well as deep river crossings in the Deosai Plains.

Registration at Chillum Check Post

From Astore main bazaar, one need to drive 53 kilometers in southeast side along the Astore River through ascending terraced pastures. You need to stop at the security check post to register yourself and vehicle details. It is mandatory to register oneself at the check post to enter Deosai National Park, or going toward Minimarg, Burzil Pass, or Rainbow Lake on the south side.

For Minimarg side, you have to clear the special security checks. Only Pakistan tourists are allowed, no foreigners is allowed without special permission. Travelers must have their valid CNIC or passport for this purpose. You also have to pay the required entry fee for Deosai National Park. For one person, the entry fee is 1,000 rupee.

Night Stay at Chillum Village

In Chillum, small size hotels and rest houses are available to spend night before continue your journey. Camping sites are also available if want to enjoy the freezing night at Chillum as weather conditions are mostly cool and cold in night there.

Driving past Chillum onto the world's highest plateau and wildlife? Explore our detailed Deosai National Park & Sheosar Lake Guide.

About Astore

Astore is district in the Gilgit-Baltistan and located at an altitude of 8,500 feet on the eastern side of Mount Nanga Parbat in front of the Rupal Face, at the distance of 60 km from Gilgit main city. Astore region ascends from the Indus River from Jaglot toward the opposite side of the Diamer district.