Yes, foreigners need a separate NOC to travel in most of Balochistan, applied for through the Balochistan government. Police escorts are commonly provided or required, and some areas stay closed even with an NOC. Several governments, including the UK, advise against all travel to Balochistan, so most travel insurance will not cover it.
- NOCRequired
- EscortCommon / required
- Closed areasYes, even with NOC
- UK adviceAgainst all travel
- InsuranceOften not covered
- Our approachCase by case
The Balochistan NOC
Unlike Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, Balochistan was not included in the 2019 NOC relaxation. Foreigners need a No Objection Certificate before travelling outside the main cities, and the application goes through the provincial government. Processing times are not published and can be long. Approval is not guaranteed, and some districts are not open to foreigners at all.
Police Escorts and Check Posts
- Police or Levies escorts are often assigned to foreigners on highways, and you may change escorts at district boundaries.
- Expect frequent check posts; carry many copies of your passport, visa and NOC.
- Travel only in daylight and keep your route agreed with the authorities.
Gwadar, Hingol and the Makran Coast
The Makran Coastal Highway from Karachi passes Hingol National Park, with its mud volcanoes and the Hinglaj Mata temple, towards Ormara and Gwadar. These are among the places most often asked about. Security arrangements here are strict and can change quickly, so plan only with up-to-date permission. Hinglaj is part of our Hindu pilgrimage tours when access allows.
Official Travel Advice
The UK advises against all travel to Balochistan, and other governments give similar warnings. We advise honestly and will tell you if a route is not sensible. For most visitors, Sindh's coast and heritage sites, or the northern areas, are better alternatives. See our safety guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners need an NOC for Balochistan?
Yes, a separate NOC through the Balochistan government for most travel outside main cities.
Can foreigners visit Gwadar?
Only with up-to-date permission and security arrangements; access can change quickly.
Will I have a police escort in Balochistan?
Escorts are commonly provided or required for foreigners.
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.
