Gilgit Baltistan in Pakistan has earned a prestigious spot on the BBC’s list of the top 25 global travel destinations for 2025, celebrated for its exceptional travel experience, environmental focus, and stunning landscapes.
The BBC ranked these destinations by collaborating with prominent organizations like the United Nations World Travel Organisation, Sustainable Travel International, the Black Travel Alliance, and the World Travel & Tourism Council.
Pakistan’s Gilgit Baltistan region claimed the 20th position, highlighted for its efforts in promoting responsible tourism and sustainable practices to attract eco-conscious tourists to its northern regions.
The launch of Salam Pakistan in 2023, the country’s inaugural national tourism brand, has facilitated travel by simplifying the e-visa application process and enabling digital bookings, enhancing Pakistan’s appeal to international travellers.
The region of Gilgit Baltistan, often called “heaven’s gate,” is renowned for its vibrant valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and glacial waterfalls, offering a slice of paradise on earth. Travellers can also explore the fragrant cherry blossoms and apricot orchards of the Hunza Valley, the expansive UNESCO-listed Deosai plains, and the idyllic lakes reminiscent of Shangri-La.
Additionally, Dominica leads the BBC’s list, which is celebrated for its innovative marine conservation efforts, including ethically guided swims with sperm whales. Following closely is Naoshima, Japan, famed for its modern art, including Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow, polka-dotted Pumpkin sculpture, making it a prime destination for contemporary art and architecture lovers.
BBC’s Top Travel Destinations for 2025
| Serial No. | Destination |
|---|---|
| 1 | Dominica |
| 2 | Naoshima, Japan |
| 3 | The Dolomites, Italy |
| 4 | Greenland |
| 5 | Wales |
| 6 | Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada |
| 7 | Tucson, Arizona, US |
| 8 | Western Australia |
| 9 | Sri Lanka |
| 10 | Panama |
| 11 | Rif Mountains, Morocco |
| 12 | Bradford, England |
| 13 | Jordan |
| 14 | Haa Valley, Bhutan |
| 15 | Hawaii, US |
| 16 | Uzbekistan |
| 17 | Haida Gwaii, Canada |
| 18 | Emerald Coast, Nicaragua |
| 19 | Isle of Man |
| 20 | Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region |
| 21 | Azores |
| 22 | Kansas City, Missouri, US |
| 23 | Bolivia |
| 24 | Botswana |
| 25 | Oslo, Norway |
