In a significant move to enhance tourism and connectivity, the National Highway Authority (NHA) has opened the Babusar Top highway nearly two months ahead of schedule, providing easier access to Gilgit‑Baltistan, Skardu, and Kaghan Valley. Travelers can now enjoy a reduced travel time of up to five hours, thanks to cleared glaciers and improved infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Skardu has drawn international attention with Pakistan International Airlines initiating new flights: starting March 31, Skardu–Dubai flights on Mondays and Fridays, and Skardu–Lahore on Mondays and Wednesdays, followed by Skardu–Karachi flights beginning April 2. In addition, Gilgit‑Baltistan has secured global recognition, featuring in CNN’s top 25 travel destinations for 2025 and the Financial Times’ “50 Holiday Places to Visit in 2025.” Tourist numbers surged in 2024, with over 486,000 domestic and nearly 22,000 international visitors—a 117% and 121% increase respectively. Together, improved infrastructure, airline expansion, and global media endorsements are positioning Gilgit‑Baltistan and Skardu as top-tier tourism destinations.
The early opening of Babusar Top highway and new PIA flights linking Skardu with Dubai, Lahore, and Karachi are enhancing access to Gilgit‑Baltistan. Global recognition by CNN and Financial Times is sparking a surge in tourism, supported by improved infrastructure and sharply rising visitor numbers.
infrastructure boost, global tourism recognition, Northern Pakistan accessibility
