Pakistan is rich in natural beauty, history, culture, and adventure. In 2025, some destinations are more popular than ever, while new projects and government plans are making travel easier and more attractive. Here are the top places to visit, plus what is changing in the tourism sector.
Gilgit-Baltistan: The Crown of Natural Beauty
- Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), in the far north, has been named among the world’s top 25 destinations to visit in 2025 by CNN Travel.
- It has some of the highest, most dramatic peaks in the world, including K2, four “eight-thousanders”, glaciers, high mountain valleys, and a variety of cultures and landscapes.
- Adventure lovers go there for trekking, mountaineering, camping, and nature photography. The region is less crowded during off-peak seasons, but road access and weather can be challenging.
So, if you like nature and adventure, GB is a must. But plan for logistics (weather, transport) carefully.
Punjab: Historical & Cultural Revival with “Magnificent Punjab”
Punjab province is pushing major tourism development in 2025 under a project called “Magnificent Punjab”.
Key features:
- The project plans to restore 170 historical sites across Punjab. These include 101 gurdwaras (Sikh places of worship), 53 churches, Mughal era monuments, and other heritage places.
- Work is divided into phases; restoration and construction will happen in many cities like Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, Chakwal, and Jhelum.
- Specific sites getting attention include Taxila (to be promoted as an international “tourist city”), Changa Manga Forest Park, Lal Suhanra National Park, and the Blue Dome, etc.
- A new digital app (“Magnificent Punjab” tourism app) is planned. It will offer virtual tours, hotel bookings, tourist guides, and trails information.
Because of this project, many historical and cultural places in Punjab will become much more accessible and attractive to both domestic and international tourists.
South Punjab & Lesser-Known Natural Sites
- The government has allocated Rs 4 billion (2025-26 budget) to boost tourism in South Punjab.
- Seven major projects were announced. Examples include a recreational park and tourist resort at Fort Munro, and a park along the Indus River at Ghazi Ghat in Dera Ghazi Khan. These will enhance natural beauty and adventure options.
These efforts aim to bring more tourists, create jobs, and develop infrastructure in places that were less visited before.
Murree: New Attractions & Scenic Upgrades
- Murree, a classic hill station near Islamabad, is getting new attractions including a Sky-Walk Glass Bridge and a Chairlift & Cable Car project connecting Lakot to Pindi Point.
- These projects will offer better views, easier access to scenic spots, and more adventure-style tourism. Murree has always been popular, but these new facilities will likely increase footfall and give tourists more to explore.
Other Major Destinations & Why They Remain Must-Visit
Here are several places that continue to fascinate visitors, and why:
| Destination | What Makes it Special | Things to Note |
|---|---|---|
| Hunza Valley | Snow-capped mountains, friendly local culture, beautiful valleys like Karimabad. Great for trekking and nature. | Cold winters; best time is late spring to early autumn. |
| Skardu | Access to glaciers, cold deserts, lakes like Shangrila, Deosai Plateaus. Ideal for adventure lovers. | Some roads are rough; altitude and weather vary. |
| Swat Valley | Lush green valleys, rivers, waterfalls, mild climate in summer. | Recent infrastructure improvements; but some areas get crowded in peak season. |
| Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir | Rivers, forests, scenic mountain views, peaceful atmosphere. | Access via Muzaffarabad; monsoon rains may disrupt roads. |
| Taxila | UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, museums, Buddhist heritage. | Dusty weather in summers; facilities improving under government plans. |
Updates & Challenges for 2025 Tourism
While there are many positives, there are also challenges:
- Infrastructure: New roads, rest houses, cable cars, and transportation are being built or improved, especially under projects like Punjab’s trail mapping.
- Heritage Conservation: Many old sites have suffered from neglect. Restoration projects under “Magnificent Punjab” are going to protect and restore many such sites.
- Tourism Governance: Establishment of the Punjab Tourism & Heritage Authority, passing of relevant acts, better management, and digital tools show a move toward more organized tourism.
- Seasonal & Weather Constraints: Northern areas can become difficult to access during winter or monsoon season. Road blockages, landslides, or weather-related risks exist. Travelers need to plan carefully.
- Safety & Visitor Facilities: Accommodations, safety services, and tourist guidance are still uneven in many remote areas. Improvements are ongoing but not yet universal.
What To Do Before You Travel
To make the most of these places in 2025:
- Check Season & Weather – For places like Hunza, GB, Neelum, Swat, avoid winter if you want easier travel. Monsoon season can disrupt roads in many hilly areas.
- Use Official Sources & Apps – Once the “Magnificent Punjab” app is launched, it will help with maps, bookings, trails, and information. Also check tourist authority websites.
- Plan for Transport & Access – Some remote areas have limited or seasonal transport. Booking ahead, arranging guides, and knowing road conditions is smart.
- Respect Local Culture & Environment – Many places are fragile or sacred. Extravagant development should be balanced with conservation.
- Budget & Accommodation – Some sites have luxury options; others have simple lodgings. Advance booking during tourist seasons helps.
Why Pakistan Is Rising in Tourism in 2025
- International recognition (e.g. Gilgit-Baltistan being included in CNN’s 2025 list) is bringing more foreign interest.
- Government projects to restore heritage, build infrastructure, and improve services are making many places more visitor-friendly.
- Increased media, social media exposure, and interest in nature and adventure travel give Pakistan a competitive advantage (natural scenery, mountains, rivers).
- South Punjab and quieter regions are receiving investment, giving more options beyond the usual tourist hubs.
Conclusion
In 2025, Pakistan’s tourism potential is being more fully realised. Gilgit-Baltistan stays a shining gem for adventure lovers. Punjab is working hard with projects like “Magnificent Punjab” to revive and promote heritage, culture and historical sites. South Punjab is being developed so that less well known but beautiful places are more accessible. Murree’s new attractions add fresh excitement.
