Key points
- Tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan surged in 2024, attracting over 508,000 visitors
- Deosai National Park alone welcomed 74,000 tourists
- Tourism boom boosts local economy, creates new jobs
ISLAMABAD: Tourism in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region is reaching new heights, with Skardu at the heart of a transformative boom.
The Skardu International Airport marked a major milestone on June 18, handling 14 domestic flights in a single day, according to the Pakistan Airports Authority — a clear sign of rising travel demand to this scenic northern destination.
The airport saw robust operations from major cities, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. National flag carrier PIA operated four flights, while Air Blue managed three, reflecting a strong airline commitment to support the tourism wave.
Although 16 flights were scheduled, 14 successfully landed and took off, underscoring growing air connectivity to this once-remote mountain city.
Accessibility and economic opportunity
“This increase in flights is not just logistical progress,” said a spokesperson from the Pakistan Airports Authority. “It signals a new era for tourism in Skardu, expanding accessibility and economic opportunity for the entire region.”
Nestled at an elevation of nearly 2,500 metres, Skardu is a gateway to the mighty Karakoram, home to some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, the second-tallest mountain on Earth. The confluence of the Indus and Shigar rivers, snow-clad summits, serene valleys, and cultural richness make Skardu a top destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Tourism surge in 2024
The rise in air traffic complements a record-breaking year for tourism in 2024, when the greater Baltistan region drew 508,433 visitors, including 486,571 domestic and 21,862 international tourists, nearly double the figures from 2023.
District-wise highlights
- Shigar: 186,960 domestic, 15,646 foreign visitors
- Kharmang: 177,895 domestic, 3,077 foreign
- Ghanche: 63,438 domestic, 6,566 foreign
Notably, over 50,000 tourists flew in, while more than 370,000 accessed the region via the Baltistan Highway, reflecting improvements in both air and road infrastructure.
One of the key attractions, Deosai National Park, known as the “Land of Giants,” welcomed 70,000 domestic and 4,000 foreign tourists in 2024 alone. The park’s wildflower meadows, rich biodiversity, and sweeping landscapes continue to captivate global adventurers.
Economic windfall for the region
This tourism boom has significantly impacted the local economy, stimulating hospitality, transport, food services, and handicrafts. “The surge in visitors is translating into real income for local communities,” said a local business owner in Skardu. “Guesthouses are full, new restaurants are opening, and local artisans are finding new markets.”
With sustained government support, expanding infrastructure, and the natural beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan on full display, Skardu is fast becoming Pakistan’s crown jewel of mountain tourism.
As more travellers discover Baltistan’s hidden valleys, turquoise lakes, majestic peaks, and vibrant culture, Skardu stands ready to welcome the world, one flight at a time.
