Skardu Permits & NOC Guide
Everything foreign tourists need to know about permits for Gilgit-Baltistan in 2026.
First Concordia treks departing first week of June. Permits being issued now — book to reserve a guide.
The road from Skardu via Sadpara to Sheosar Lake is open. 4×4 required. Wildflowers peaking next 3 weeks.
Good news for most travelers
If your trip is to Skardu city, Shangrila, Khaplu, Shigar, Hunza or Deosai — no NOC or permit is needed. Just a valid Pakistani tourist visa. Permits only kick in for high-altitude treks (K2, Concordia), restricted border zones (Shimshal, Siachen), and serious climbing.
Where you can go without a permit
Where you need a permit
Permit Types Explained
Foreign tourists visiting open zones
No NOC required for Skardu, Hunza, Khaplu, Shigar, Shangrila or Deosai for most nationalities. Carry your passport at all times.
Trekkers above 5,000m in restricted areas
Issued by Gilgit-Baltistan Council. Must be applied through a licensed local tour operator (we handle this for you).
Visitors to Shimshal, Hushe upper valleys, Siachen frontier zones
Required for areas within 30km of the Line of Control or sensitive borders. We obtain this on your behalf when booking a tour to those areas.
Anyone summiting peaks above 6,500m (K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, Nanga Parbat)
Issued by Alpine Club of Pakistan. Mandatory liaison officer assigned. Royalty fees vary by altitude.
Commercial videographers, drone operators
Drones are heavily restricted near borders, airports, and military installations. Personal-use drones still need PCAA registration.
Documents You'll Need
- Passport copy (valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages)
- Pakistani visa copy
- Trip itinerary with dates
- 2 passport-sized photos
- Completed application form (we provide)
- Proof of trekking insurance (recommended)
- Tour operator authorization letter (we provide)
We handle the permit paperwork
When you book a K2 trek, Concordia, Shimshal or restricted-zone tour with us, all NOCs and permits are included. We submit applications, follow up with authorities, and have your paperwork ready before you arrive.