Visa & Permit
Support
Alpine Karakoram Adventure handles the paperwork for Pakistan trekking tours so you can focus on the climb. With decades of experience in tourism in Pakistan, we've mastered the logistics for everything from 8,000m expeditions on K2 to cultural tours Hunza Skardu.
As a licensed travel agency, whether you need a restricted zone permit for the Baltoro or standard tourist entry for a jeep safari, we ensure your legal paperwork is solid as your gear.
Which One Do You Need?
Pakistan runs everything through NADRA Online Portal at visa.nadra.gov.pk, accessible to nationals of the 191 Countries who are residing in the same countries. As per the instructions of Government of Pakistan, from 1st January, 2021 ALL VISA APPLICATIONS are to be submitted via Pakistan Online Visa System.
Choosing the right category prevents getting turned back at military checkpoints.
Tourist Visa
For open zones—city tours in Lahore, Islamabad, cultural tours in Hunza and Skardu valleys. A Tourist Visa allows the foreigners to visit Pakistan for tourism purposes.
Mountaineering & Trekking Visa
Pakistan is regarded as one of the most sought after destinations for undertaking "Mountaineering and Trekking" expeditions around the world. Under "Mountaineering and Trekking" category, all foreigners can apply online visa who wish to explore Pakistan. Mandatory for any expedition targeting peaks (6,000m to 8,000m) and all restricted zone treks like K2 Base Camp, Gondogoro La, Snow Lake.
Please Note: If the application is Sent Back for Review to the Applicant, the set processing time will be applicable again. Apply at least two months before your trip.
Visa on Arrival (ETA)
Available for select "Tourist Friendly" countries. Still need to apply for intent-to-travel authorization online at least 48–72 hours before flying.
Important Note
You need a Trekking Visa only to visit the K2 and Baltoro region, including Gondogoro la. You do not need a trekking visa for the rest of the areas. You can go trekking or visit the rest of the country with a standard tourist visa.
Permits for Gilgit-Baltistan & the Karakoram
In Pakistan, visa gets you into the country, but permit gets you onto the mountain. Many iconic adventure travel Karakoram routes are in restricted areas.
Restricted Area Permits
Required for Baltoro region, including K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La. All foreign and Pakistani nationals required to obtain a trekking permit to enter the restricted zone in the Karakoram range of Gilgit Baltistan.
CKNP Permits
Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) in 1993 and today it is the largest protected area in Pakistan, covering over 10,557.73 km². Any activity within CKNP requires specific environmental and entry permits. Fees vary based on group size and duration.
Climbing Permits
All Peaks above 6500 Meters require a Permit from GB Council whether in an Open Area or a Restricted Area. All permits are obtained through the Gilgit Baltistan tourism department.
Environmental & Waste Fees
Environment and waste management fees apply for all mountaineering expeditions in CKNP areas. We handle mandatory "Leave No Trace" deposits required by GB Tourism Department.
Important: No Objection Certificate (NOC)
If you have a regular tourist visa for Pakistan and want to go to the K2 and Baltoro area, you must also get a special permission called a "No Objection Certificate" (NOC) from the Interior Ministry in Pakistan.
You cannot apply for an NOC directly yourself. You have to apply through a licensed tour operator from Pakistan.
Required Documents Checklist
NADRA portal requires clear, accurate documentation. Errors in passport number or dates often lead to delays. Have these ready:
Basic Requirements
All Visas
- Valid passport (6+ months validity remaining, 2 blank pages)
- Passport-size photo (2x2 inch, white background)
- Letter of Invitation (LOI) from Alpine Karakoram Adventure
- Proof of travel (flight and hotel booking confirmations)
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds
Additional Requirements
For Mountaineering & Trekking Visa
- Our LOI on official letterhead with DTS-GB-077 license details
- Detailed itinerary with dates, mountain names, routes
- List of any members who are accompanying the applicant for the purpose of Mountaineering or Trekking
- For 7,000m+ peaks: Climbing CV showing high-altitude experience
Note: The Application will stand cancelled if applicant doesn't resubmit his/her application in Seven (7) days from the date of application sent for review.
The Letter of Invitation (LOI)
LOI is the golden ticket for your visa.
What is LOI?
Formal document where we act as your local sponsor and take legal responsibility for your logistics and safety. As registered agency, we issue your LOI on official company letterhead within 24-48 hours of booking.
Why You Need It
For expeditions and restricted treks, Ministry of Interior won't grant visa without this specific invitation from government-approved agency.
LOI Issuance
License Number
Legal Compliance
Years Experience
How We Handle the Logistics
Permit approval can take between 1 to 3 months depending on region. Permit application process may take up to four weeks so we recommend applying for the permit as early as possible to avoid any delays.
When you book with us, our experienced team in Skardu and Islamabad:
No Separate Permit Needed
Foreign National do not need to apply for a trekking permit separately if they have obtained a trekking and mountaineering visa. The trekking and mountaineering visa is equivalent to a trekking permit.
Fee Structure
The fee charged online upon submission of your application is Visa Application Fee – IF Visa is GRANTED against your application then you will be required to pay Royalty Fee for the purpose of Mountaineering and Trekking after coming to Pakistan.
Processing Timeline
Need Help With Your Application?
Online portal can be tricky. If you're stuck or have questions about restricted zones for K2 base camp treks, professional trekking guides Pakistan support, reach out.
We handle paperwork so you focus on adventure travel Karakoram style.