Interest in Northern Pakistan is skyrocketing, with major outlets like the BBC, CNN, and Financial Times recently naming the region as one of the top destinations for 2025.
The Gilgit-Baltistan region alone saw a remarkable 121% increase in international visitors in 2024 compared to the previous year. Tourists are drawn to the area’s breathtaking mountains, serene lakes, abundant wildlife, and excellent opportunities for trekking and climbing, alongside its unique culture.
This surge in tourism is expected to continue into 2025, with domestic travel also seeing a significant rise. However, the increase in visitors brings with it ecological concerns, as the region’s fragile mountainous environment faces pressure.
The growth in tourism has been aided by improvements in the country’s visa process, with citizens from 126 countries now eligible to apply for an e-visa online. Additionally, direct flights between Dubai and Skardu, Northern Pakistan’s gateway, have recently begun, marking a historic development in the region’s connectivity. Discussions are ongoing to establish regular flights between these locations and other destinations.
