For most of Gilgit-Baltistan, no. Since March 2019 foreigners do not need an NOC to visit Hunza, Gilgit, Skardu, Deosai, Astore and other main valleys. Areas within 10 miles of the China and Afghan borders and 5 miles of the Line of Control remain closed, and restricted-zone treks and peaks above 6,500 m need permits through a licensed operator.
- Hunza, SkarduNo NOC
- Deosai, AstoreNo NOC
- SinceMarch 2019
- China border belt10 miles
- LoC belt5 miles
- Restricted treksPermit needed
What Changed in 2019
In March 2019 the Ministry of Interior ended the NOC requirement for foreign tourists in Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Chitral, making these areas non-restricted, with exceptions for sensitive border belts:
| Border belt | Off-limits distance |
|---|---|
| Pakistan–China border | 10 miles |
| Afghanistan / Wakhan border | 10 miles |
| Line of Control (AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan) | 5 miles |
| Siachen line | 10 miles |
Where You Do Not Need an NOC
Popular places you can visit on a valid Pakistan visa without an NOC include Hunza, Nagar, Gilgit, Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, Deosai, Astore and Fairy Meadows. The Karakoram Highway up to the Khunjerab Pass is also open, within the road corridor.
Where Permits Still Apply
- Restricted-zone treks such as K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La, Masherbrum Pass, Panmah, Lukpe La and Snow Lake, Hushe treks, Chapursan, and Shimshal pass treks.
- All peaks above 6,500 m need an expedition permit.
- National parks such as Deosai and Khunjerab charge entry fees.
Check Posts and Registration
You will pass police and army check posts on the Karakoram Highway and other roads, where officers note passport details. Carry several photocopies of your passport and visa to save time. Travel advice from your government may differ by district, so read it before you go; see our Is Pakistan safe? guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners need an NOC for Hunza?
No. Hunza has not needed an NOC since 2019.
Do I need a permit for Skardu and Deosai?
No NOC is needed. Deosai National Park charges an entry fee.
Which parts of Gilgit-Baltistan are closed to foreigners?
Belts within 10 miles of the China and Afghan borders, 5 miles of the Line of Control and 10 miles of the Siachen line.
Do I need a permit to trek in Gilgit-Baltistan?
Only for restricted-zone treks and peaks above 6,500 m.
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.
