Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has been included in a list of the top 25 destinations worth visiting in 2025 curated by US-based broadcaster CNN.

Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has been named one of the top 25 must-visit destinations for 2025 by CNN, a renowned US-based broadcaster. The region, located in the stunning Karakoram Mountain range, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and adventurous activities that attract thousands of tourists and foreign climbers annually. These visitors come for various thrilling experiences, including mountain expeditions, paragliding, and trekking.

CNN Travel’s list, published on Wednesday, highlights GB as a place of exceptional natural beauty, although not the easiest to access. “While it’s not the easiest place to reach — with unreliable flight schedules and seasonally blocked roads — GB boasts more stunning peaks than a lemon meringue pie,” said the broadcaster. The region is home to five of the 14 “eight-thousanders,” the world’s highest mountains, including K2, the second-tallest mountain on Earth and considered the most challenging to climb due to its difficulty and danger.

For adventure seekers, GB offers some of the most difficult and rewarding hiking trails. CNN stated that trekking here makes the Himalayas seem like a walk in the park. However, the broadcaster cautioned that traveling alone in the region is not advisable due to the rugged terrain and challenging conditions. While GB offers remarkable experiences for climbers and adventurers, safety remains a top concern, especially with the area’s unpredictable weather and steep, treacherous paths.

In 2024, there was a significant rise in mountaineering expeditions in GB, but unfortunately, nine climbers lost their lives while attempting to summit various peaks. According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the fatalities included climbers from Japan, Russia, Brazil, and Pakistan. Among the victims was a Japanese climber who tragically fell into a crevasse while descending Spantik Peak (7,027 meters), also known as Golden Peak, located in the Nagar district of Gilgit-Baltistan. This incident occurred on July 3, 2024, while the climber was part of a Japanese expedition team that had successfully reached the summit after starting from Hoper Valley.

Despite the risks, Gilgit-Baltistan continues to captivate those who seek adventure, natural beauty, and a challenging experience. With its awe-inspiring peaks, remote valleys, and an opportunity to conquer some of the world’s toughest climbs, GB remains a top destination for daring travelers in 2025 and beyond.