Hey philzphil

Sorry to hear that you were denied a visa for Pakistan due to 'security issues'. Sounds a bit strange that they gave this reason as my husband and I crossed into Taftan from Iran just over a week ago with our own vehicle.

We also know that a German biker crossed a few days before us, and another couple on their bike crossed a few days after us. During our time with the police escort, we were told that the situation had improved.

For shipping options, I believe you can ship your bike from Bandar Abbas in Iran to Mumbai.

Cheers

Claire

hello!! any update from Iran-Pakistan border?

Pakistan visa for Aussies
 

We got my Pakistan visas within a few days from the Pakistan embassy in Canberra. However, you will need to submit a copy of return air ticket, and LOI.

We got our LOI from Lost Horizon trek (Cost US$75). We did not mention anything about overland crossing by motorcycle. Listed cities to visit were safe cities such as: Islamabad, Lahore, Muree, and Faisalabad.

We got police escort from Taftan to Multan. We also got a couple of days of police escort from Chilas to Besham city and a bit beyond. Please also be aware that police escort is very slow, and is a costly exercise to the Pakistan government.

I would recommend entering Pakistan from China and ride the Karakorum Highway. Karakorum Highway is in great condition from Gilgit to Khunjerap Pass. but road condition can be quite bad in other sections. The scenery is absolutely amazing, and it involves less police escort. There is not a lot to see between Taftan and Multan, roads are in poor condition, and the area is dangerous.

It is dangerous to ride a motorcycle in Pakistan ( also Iran & India) because of the chaotic traffic and the dangerous driving habits, and road condition in some area are in terrible shape. Pakistan people are however very friendly to foreigner.

Hey the Channey - I'm in the process of trying to get a Pakistani visa as we speak. I contacted one tour agency who said they'd be happy to help with the LOI, but after confirming details with them I've not heard anything back. I've just sent a similar email to Lost Horizon Treks and hopefully they're more helpful.

When you contacted these tour companies, did you tell them about travelling overland by bike (and request that they NOT tell the authorities) or did you also tell the white lie when requesting the LOI?

Cheers,

Jimmy