Chitral has not needed a federal NOC since 2019. Instead, foreigners should complete Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's online Foreign Tourist Registration (launched July 2025) and expect to register with police at check posts such as the Lowari Tunnel. Broghil is open but lies near the Wakhan border belt, so check locally before going. Some governments advise against travel on parts of the road to Chitral.
- Federal NOCNot needed since 2019
- KP registrationOnline form
- Police registrationAt check posts
- Kalash valleysBumburet, Rumbur, Birir
- BroghilCheck with DC office
- HelplineKP tourism 1422
KP Foreign Tourist Registration
In July 2025 the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture & Tourism Authority launched an online Foreign Tourist Registration form. According to KP officials it replaces separate permissions for northern districts such as Chitral, Upper Dir and Swat. Register before you travel and keep the confirmation on your phone. The KP tourist helpline is 1422.
Police Registration and Check Posts
- Foreigners are registered by the Foreigner Registration Branch of the District Police, and forms are often handed out at the Lowari Tunnel or after Shandur Pass.
- Carry passport and visa copies for each check post.
- Police escorts were dropped for the Kalash valleys some years ago, but local arrangements can change.
Visiting the Kalash Valleys
Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir are home to the Kalash people, famous for festivals such as Chilam Joshi in May and Chaumos in December. A small local entry fee is usually charged for foreigners. Ask before photographing people, especially women, and respect sacred places.
Broghil and Upper Chitral
The old NOC for Broghil was dropped around 2019, and an army post at Ishkarwaz checks IDs. Broghil sits close to the Wakhan corridor and the 10-mile Afghan border belt, so check with the Deputy Commissioner's office in Chitral before you set off.
Travel Advice for the Road to Chitral
Some governments, including the UK, advise against travel on parts of the N45 road between Mardan and Chitral. Reaching Chitral by air from Islamabad, or by road from Gilgit over Shandur Pass, avoids that stretch. Check your own government's advice and our safety guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners need an NOC for the Kalash Valleys?
No federal NOC has been needed since 2019, but complete the KP foreign tourist registration and expect police registration.
Is there an entry fee for the Kalash Valleys?
A small local fee is usually charged for foreigners.
Can foreigners visit Broghil?
Yes, but it is close to the Afghan border belt, so confirm with the Deputy Commissioner in Chitral first.
Please note: NOC and permit rules in Pakistan change often and are applied locally, sometimes at short notice. Treat this guide as general information and confirm current requirements for your exact route before you travel. We check every route for our guests when we plan the trip.
