Since 2019 Azad Jammu & Kashmir has been non-restricted for foreigners, so no general NOC is needed. However, the area within 5 miles of the Line of Control is off-limits, and much of the upper Neelum Valley runs close to the LoC. The valley has also been closed to tourists at times, most recently in mid-2026. Confirm access for your exact route before travelling.
- General NOCNot needed since 2019
- LoC belt5 miles, off-limits
- Recent closureJune – Aug 2026
- Entry pointMuzaffarabad
- Travel adviceOften restrictive
- PlanConfirm route first
The Rules for Foreigners
The March 2019 Ministry of Interior decision removed the NOC requirement for AJK, except within 5 miles of the Line of Control. Some foreign governments still describe advance permission as necessary for several AJK districts, and local authorities can tell you whether an NOC is needed for a particular place. In practice, the closer your route goes to the LoC, the more likely you are to be stopped or asked for permission.
The Neelum Valley
The Neelum Valley runs north-east from Muzaffarabad past Keran, Sharda and Kel towards Taobat, with side valleys such as Arang Kel and Ratti Gali Lake. Large parts of the road run near the LoC. Which villages fall inside the 5-mile belt is decided locally, so check with the district administration before travelling beyond the lower valley.
Recent Closures
- From 1 May 2025, tourists were stopped at the Marbal check post during India–Pakistan tensions.
- A two-month ban on tourists in Neelum from June 2026 was lifted by the Neelum Deputy Commissioner on 10 August 2026.
Closures can come at short notice, so keep plans flexible.
Travel Advice and Insurance
The UK advises against all but essential travel to AJK and against all travel within 10 miles of the LoC; other governments have similar warnings. Check whether your travel insurance covers the area. Our safety guide explains how we plan around official advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners need an NOC for the Neelum Valley?
No general NOC since 2019, but areas within 5 miles of the Line of Control are off-limits, and access can be restricted locally.
Is the Neelum Valley open to tourists?
A tourist ban from June 2026 was lifted on 10 August 2026. Check the latest status before you travel.
Who decides access near the LoC?
Local district administrations and security authorities.
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.
