In a proud moment for Pakistan’s tourism sector, the Financial Times has included northern Pakistan in its prestigious list of “50 Holidays to Take in 2025.” The international business publication cited the region’s “dramatic mountain scenery” and improved security situation as key reasons for its selection.
Gilgit-Baltistan, a breathtaking northern territory of Pakistan, is home to some of the tallest peaks in the world, including K2, the second-highest mountain globally. Known for its pristine landscapes and adventure tourism, the area attracts thousands of international tourists annually for trekking, mountaineering, paragliding, and cultural exploration.
The Financial Times report highlighted the region’s growing appeal due to enhanced accessibility, better accommodation options, and Pakistan’s new visa policies. In August 2024, Pakistan began offering free online visas for citizens of over 120 countries, making travel to the region more convenient. Additionally, an increase in flights to Skardu and Gilgit, key gateways to Hunza Valley and Baltistan, has made travel logistics simpler.
“Northern Pakistan boasts some of the world’s most dramatic mountain scenery,” the report stated. It also mentioned Wild Frontiers, a UK-based tour operator that has been organizing trips to Pakistan since 1998. The company’s 14-day guided tour includes six days of trekking and offers an immersive cultural experience in the region’s history, landscapes, and traditions.
Other destinations featured in the Financial Times list include India’s Kumaon Himalayas, Bhutan, Greenland, and Italy’s Ischia Island.
A Rising Star in Global Tourism
State broadcaster Radio Pakistan welcomed the recognition, calling it a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to promoting its rich cultural and natural heritage. “As the country continues to improve infrastructure and facilitate travel, it is poised to become a leading destination for adventure and cultural tourism in 2025 and beyond,” the broadcaster said.
The global attention follows a similar acknowledgment by CNN earlier this month, which also listed Gilgit-Baltistan as one of the 25 destinations worth visiting in 2025.
A Year of Triumph and Tragedy
While 2024 saw a surge in mountaineering expeditions in northern Pakistan, it also came with risks. According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, nine climbers tragically lost their lives in attempts to summit peaks in the region last year. The fatalities included adventurers from Japan, Russia, Brazil, and Pakistan itself, underscoring the challenges of navigating some of the world’s most formidable terrain.
A New Era for Tourism
The inclusion in the Financial Times list is expected to boost Pakistan’s image as a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and culture seekers. With ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and provide world-class travel experiences, Pakistan’s northern region is set to attract even more global attention in 2025 and beyond.
