Gilgit-Baltistan Named Among Top 25 Must-Visit Destinations for 2025 by CNN
Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), a region famed for its stunning landscapes and rugged terrain, has been recognized as one of the top 25 must-visit destinations for 2025 by CNN Travel. Located in the Karakoram Mountains, the area is a major attraction for tourists and international climbers, offering exciting activities such as mountaineering, paragliding, and trekking on some of the world’s most majestic peaks.
In the CNN Travel list published on Wednesday, the broadcaster highlighted the region’s allure despite its challenging accessibility. “The Gilgit-Baltistan region in the Karakoram Mountains isn’t the easiest place to get to — flight schedules can be unreliable, roads can be blocked off seasonally — but it has more tantalizing peaks than a lemon meringue pie,” CNN said.
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GB is home to five of the world’s 14 ‘eight-thousander’ peaks, which are the highest mountains on Earth, including K2. K2 is considered not only the world’s second-tallest mountain but also the most difficult and dangerous to climb.
CNN further emphasized the harsh yet spectacular terrain, comparing hiking in Gilgit-Baltistan to making the Himalayas look like a walk in Central Park. However, they cautioned that solo travel in this remote region is not feasible due to the challenging environment.
In 2024 alone, more than 1,700 international climbers applied for climbing permits in the region. Among them, 175 climbers specifically sought to scale the formidable K2 during the summer, showcasing the global appeal and allure of GB as a climbing destination.
This recognition by CNN further elevates Gilgit-Baltistan’s status as a premier adventure tourism hub, drawing attention to its natural beauty and thrilling outdoor experiences.
