Foreigners can drive the Karakoram Highway to the Khunjerab Pass (about 4,700 m) without an NOC, but must stay within the road corridor, pay the Khunjerab National Park entry fee, and not photograph beyond the border gate. The border is usually closed in winter. Driving to Shimshal village needs no permit, but treks beyond it, such as Chapchingal Pass and Braldu–Snow Lake, are restricted.
- Khunjerab NOCNot needed
- Park feeYes, paid at gate
- Altitude~4,700 m
- WinterBorder usually closed
- Shimshal villageNo permit
- Shimshal passesRestricted
Visiting the Khunjerab Pass
- The road to the pass is open to foreign tourists without an NOC.
- Because the area is within 10 miles of the China border, you must stay on or beside the highway; hiking off into the park's border zone is not allowed.
- Do not take photos past the border gate or of security posts.
- The border crossing usually closes from about November to March, and the pass can be closed by snow.
Khunjerab National Park Fee
An entry fee is charged at the park gate near Sost. Foreigner rates have changed over the years and reports differ, so check the current fee at the gate or ask us. Altitude rises quickly from Sost (about 2,800 m) to the pass, so spend a night or two in Hunza first.
Crossing into China
If you continue into China you need a Chinese visa and, to return, a multiple-entry Pakistan visa. Our Pakistan & China Overland Tour crosses here.
Shimshal Valley and Its Treks
The jeep road to Shimshal village is open to foreigners. Beyond the village, treks such as Shimshal Pass, Chapchingal Pass and the route via the Braldu Glacier to Snow Lake are listed as restricted and need a permit through a licensed operator. See the Snow Lake guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners need a permit for the Khunjerab Pass?
No NOC is needed to drive to the pass, but you must stay in the road corridor and pay the park fee.
When is the Khunjerab Pass closed?
The border is usually closed from about November to March.
Do I need a permit for Shimshal?
Not to visit the village. Treks beyond it, such as Chapchingal Pass, are restricted.
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.
