5 places where independent travel is strictly restricted or prohibited

For many, freedom comes with travelling; it is about going off the track, altering one’s plans at the spur of the moment and exploring places on one’s terms.

However, all places of destination do not facilitate such a spirit of adventure.

There are some destinations which put restrictions on travellers in terms of places they can visit, people they can travel with and extent of freedom they enjoy during their travels.

It may be for political, religious, environmental or cultural reasons or just for the sake of preservation and security.

Here are destinations where independent travel is strictly controlled.Not many countries match the level of control that North Korea exerts over visitors.

It is common for tourists to be forced to move about in organised programmes planned through tour agencies.

Independent movement within the country is heavily restricted, and visitors are typically accompanied by official guides.

People can’t just hire a vehicle and move about anywhere in the country as they wish.Bhutan has been known to practice "high value, low volume" tourism, meant for conservation of the cultural and natural heritage of the place.

While there have been changes in the laws governing tourism recently, allowing tourists some freedom in their travels, most tourists visit the place in structured tours and pay a Sustainable Development Fee.Visiting Antarctica is unlike any other ordinary holiday destination; there are no independent back-packing routes nor tourism facilities as it would normally be defined.

Travellers usually visit on expeditions cruise or via scientific trips based on environmental policies to safeguard what is among the most delicate ecological environments on earth.One of the most secretive nations in Central Asia, Turkmenistan can pose difficulties when it comes to independent travellers, and tourist visas usually require sponsorship through authorized tour agents whose routes are tied to official itineraries.

The country's unusual architecture and mysterious reputation have only added to its intrigue.Independent travelling in Svalbard is allowed, but there are restrictions when it comes to travel outside the settlements due to the environment hazards and the presence of dangerous wildlife including polar bears.

Independent travel requires the use of safety equipment and guided tours in many of the journeys.