Gilgit-Baltistan Named Top Tourist Destination for 2025 Amid Growing Visitor Interest

Gilgit-Baltistan: Gilgit-Baltistan has been named one of the best tourist destinations for 2025 by renowned international media outlets, including CNN, BBC, and the Financial Times. The region’s stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage have drawn significant attention, positioning it as a top choice for travelers in the coming year.

In 2024, approximately 25,000 foreign tourists visited Gilgit-Baltistan, making up 50% of all foreign visitors to Pakistan. Of these, only 2,300 tourists paid the required mountaineering and trekking royalty fees, receiving official permits from the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan. The remaining 22,000 tourists were allowed to explore designated areas without permits or royalty fees.

As part of ongoing efforts to promote tourism, the department has also opened new tourist routes for travelers this year, which do not require permits or royalty fees.

According to the Tourism Department of Gilgit-Baltistan, 700 foreign tourists have already applied for mountaineering and trekking visas. After obtaining visas, they approach the government for permits, which are typically issued within 2 to 3 days. However, only two tourists have submitted applications for permits thus far.

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It is important to note that the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO) has challenged the increase in royalty fees in the Chief Court of Gilgit-Baltistan. As a result, the court has temporarily suspended the issuance of permits until a final decision is made. Once the court issues its ruling, the Tourism Department will promptly resume issuing permits.

For more information, the Tourism, Sports, and Culture Department of Gilgit-Baltistan remains available for inquiries.