Trekking and Climbing Royalty Fees in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Guide
Procedure for Obtaining Mountaineering and Trekking Permits in Gilgit-Baltistan
The Government of Pakistan issues two types of tourism permits for foreign tourists wishing to explore the restricted areas of Gilgit-Baltistan:
- Climbing Permit
- Trekking Permit
Note: A trekking permit is not required for open areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. However, all peaks above 6500 meters, regardless of location, require a permit from the Gilgit-Baltistan Council.
Required Documents for Permits
Foreign tourists must submit their applications through registered tour operator with Pakistan Directorate of Tourist Services (DTS) . The required documents include:
- Invitation letter from the tour operator on official letterhead
- Mountaineering expedition application form
- List of expedition members
- Route map of the proposed peak/trek
- Passport copies of all members
- Duly filled visa application forms
- CVs of expedition members
- Tour operator company license copy
Application Process
Upon receiving the complete application from the tour operator, the Gilgit-Baltistan Council Secretariat forwards it to the relevant departments for necessary clearances. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks as per the current Pakistan Visa Regime. All participants have to fill the form online visa Nadra website, on behalf of the client we Hunza Guides will also submit the hard copies of the for the clearance and getting permit from the Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism departure.
Climbing Royalty Fees in Pakistan 2024
The royalty fees for climbing in Pakistan are as follows:
The royalty fees/rates assigned by Pakistan’s Tourism Ministry and Government of Gilgit Baltistan Department of Tourism.
| S.No | Height Of Mountain | Up To 7 Member Team | Each Additional Member |
| 1. | K-2 (8,611-M) | $ 12,000 | $ 3,000 |
| 2. | 8001 – 8500-M | $ 9,500 | $ 3,000 |
| 3. | 7501 – 8000-M | $ 4,000 | $ 1,000 |
| 4. | 7001 – 7500-M | $ 2,500 | $ 500 |
| 5 | 6501 – 7000-M | $ 1,500 | $ 300 |
Special Notes:
1. Zero royalty fee for peaks up to 6500 meters
Specific discounts are available for mountains in Gilgit and Ghizer regions and for climbs during the winter season (December-February).
Waste Management Fees (CKNP)
For areas located in the Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP), an environmental/waste management fee of $200 per expedition member is required.
Trekking Fees
For treks in restricted areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, the fees are as follows:
- $50 per/person for one month
- An additional $150 per/person as an environment/waste management fee
Issuance of Climbing Permit
After receiving clearances from the relevant departments, the Gilgit-Baltistan Council Secretariat issues the climbing permit, provided the following conditions are met:
- Payment of the prescribed royalty fee
- Submission of a climbing permit application
- Insurance and an undertaking from the tour operator for rescue operations
- Insurance for tourist guides, liaison officers, and porters
For status updates on applications, We will Hunza Guides contact the Tourism Section of the Gilgit-Baltistan Council Secretariat.
Conclusion
Navigating the permit process for trekking and mountaineering in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region requires careful planning and adherence to guidelines. By following the above procedures and ensuring all necessary documents are in order, adventurers can enjoy the majestic beauty of the region while complying with local regulations.
Contact us at info@hunzaguidespakistan.com for more information or to book your trekking and climbing expedition in Pakistan.