All peaks above 6,500 m in Pakistan need an expedition permit from the Gilgit-Baltistan authorities, applied for through a licensed tour operator. Under the fee structure revised in May 2025 and still reported for 2026, summer royalty is about US $3,500 per climber for K2 and US $2,500 for the other 8,000 m peaks, with lower rates in autumn and winter.
- Permit neededPeaks above 6,500 m
- K2 (summer)~US $3,500 / person
- Other 8,000 m~US $2,500 / person
- 7,000 m peaks~US $500
- Apply throughLicensed operator
- Issued byGB Tourism Dept
Which Peaks Need a Permit?
Every peak above 6,500 m needs an expedition permit, whether it lies in an open or a restricted zone. Lower peaks do not carry royalty, but the approach trek may still be in a restricted zone and need a trekking permit. Pakistan has five 8,000 m peaks: K2, Nanga Parbat, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II.
Peak Royalty Fees for 2026
In late 2024 Gilgit-Baltistan announced individual permits at much higher prices. After a legal challenge by tour operators, the GB cabinet revised the structure on 13 May 2025. Reported figures, still in use for the 2026 season:
| Peak | Summer royalty (per climber) |
|---|---|
| K2 (8,611 m) | About US $3,500 |
| Nanga Parbat, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II | About US $2,500 |
| 7,000 m peaks | About US $500 |
| High 6,000 m peaks | About US $600 |
Autumn and winter rates are lower. Fees are set by official notification, and in September 2026 Gilgit-Baltistan said it plans to revise its mountaineering rules, so we confirm the exact royalty when we quote your expedition.
Liaison Officers, Insurance and Other Costs
Expeditions to many peaks have traditionally required a liaison officer (LO), whose costs and insurance are paid by the team. The official GB Tourism Department fee page also lists liaison officer, environmental and helicopter-rescue insurance charges. Requirements vary by peak and are under review, so budget for:
- Peak royalty.
- Liaison officer fee or costs, where required.
- Environmental and waste fees for Central Karakoram National Park.
- Rescue insurance for climbers and high-altitude staff.
How to Apply
- Choose an operatorApplications go through a licensed Pakistani tour operator.
- Submit team detailsPassport copies, climbing CVs, route and dates.
- Pay royaltyThrough the operator, by the deadline set by the department.
- Get your visaUse the permit and the operator's invitation for your Pakistan visa.
- BriefingAttend any briefing required before you head to the mountains.
Apply as early as possible; many teams start months ahead of the summer season.
Expedition Support from TGA
We organise mountain expeditions on 7,000 m and 8,000 m peaks, handling permits, royalty payment, liaison arrangements, insurance and logistics from our base in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which peaks need a climbing permit in Pakistan?
All peaks above 6,500 m.
How much is the K2 climbing permit?
About US $3,500 per climber in summer under the fee structure revised in May 2025, with lower autumn and winter rates.
Who issues climbing permits in Pakistan?
The Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department, through a licensed tour operator.
Is a liaison officer required?
Many peaks have required one; requirements vary and are under review, so check for your peak.
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.
