Pakistan’s Gilgit Baltistan (GB) has proudly secured a spot on BBC’s list of the 25 Best Travel Destinations for 2025, recognized for its exceptional travel experiences, stunning landscapes, and commitment to environmental preservation.
The BBC compiled the list with input from its travel journalists, along with insights from organizations like the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Sustainable Travel International, the Black Travel Alliance, and the World Travel & Tourism Council.
Ranked 20th on the list, Pakistan is focusing on responsible tourism initiatives and sustainable development efforts aimed at attracting eco-conscious travelers to discover the breathtaking beauty of its northern regions..
It is worth noting that Salam Pakistan — country’s first-ever national tourism brand, which launched in 2023 — allows travellers to easily apply for e-visas and make bookings on the digital platform.
The scenic Gilgit Baltistan region, which has been dubbed “heaven’s gate”, is brimming with lush valleys, pristine lakes and glacial waterfalls.
Moreover, cradled between trails are the Hunza Valley’s fragrant cherry blossoms and apricot orchards, undulating Unesco-listed Deosai plains and Shangri-La-esque mirrored lakes.
In addition to Pakistan’s inclusion, Dominica tops the BBC list and taking first place. It now offers the chance to swim alongside sperm whales in an ethical, sustainable way as part of the Caribbean island’s groundbreaking commitment to marine conservation and regenerative tourism.
The second on the list is Naoshima, Japan, which is home to one of Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow, polka-dotted Pumpkin sculptures, and has become a must-see destination for connoisseurs of contemporary art and architecture.
Furthermore, other destinations on the list are as follows:
- The Dolomites, Italy.
- Greenland.
- Wales.
- Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
- Tucson, Arizona, US.
- Western Australia.
- Sri Lanka.
- Panama.
- Rif Mountains, Morocco.
- Bradford, England.
- Jordan.
- Haa Valley, Bhutan.
- Hawaii, US.
- Uzbekistan.
- Haida Gwaii, Canada.
- Emerald Coast, Nicaragua.
- Isle of Man.
- Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region.
- Azores.
- Kansas City, Missouri, US.
- Bolivia.
- Botswana.
- Oslo, Norway.
