CNN names Gilgit-Baltistan a top travel destination for 2025

Gilgit-Baltistan, once a hidden gem, was named the world's top travel destination for 2025 by American broadcaster, CNN, finally putting this breathtaking region on the global tourism map. 

GB's breathtaking landscapes, including the longest mountain range and serene lakes, are already popular among domestic tourists. This international recognition by CNN is expected to increase its appeal to foreign visitors.

The broadcaster acknowledged that in the 1970s Pakistan was an “adventure travel hot spot,” with sublime mountain scenery, but the “decades of political instability put an end to that, but these epic peaks haven’t been seen anywhere.”

It added that despite unpredictable road blockages and unreliable flight schedules, “it has more tantalising peaks than a lemon meringue pie.”

The region’s natural beauty, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, makes it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

From, the majestic Nanga Parbat to picturesque Hunza Valley, GB is “home to five of the 14 highest peaks” in the world, including the highest K2-- the world’s second tallest mountain, and “No 1 in terms of difficulty and dangers.”

This recognition is a testament to Pakistan’s efforts to promote tourism in the region.

An official said that GB is the favourite place for climbers in the world. In 2024, at least 1,700 climbers submitted climbing applications, of which 175 wanted to climb the summit of K2 in the summer.

Meanwhile, last year, Romina Khurshid, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Climate Change, announced the establishment of a world-class mountaineering school to promote sustainable and eco-friendly climbing.