Massive Decline in Visitors Shocks GB Tourism Sector
Tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has taken a severe hit, with a 90% drop in arrivals this year. A report submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the drastic decline in both domestic and international visitors. Last year, GB welcomed over 1 million local tourists and 20,000 foreigners. This year, however, only around 270 foreign climbers reached the region.
The GB government blamed extreme weather, cancelled campaigns, and geopolitical tensions for the tourism collapse.
Weather, Permit Disputes, and Tensions to Blame
According to the report, poor weather conditions, rockfalls, and avalanches forced many climbers to abandon their expeditions. Only a few managed to summit major peaks like K2, Nanga Parbat, and Gasherbrum I.
Other contributing factors include disputes over permit fees and rising regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, India, and Pakistan. These challenges have led to cancelled expeditions and a sharp decline in interest from foreign and domestic tourists alike.
GB officials confirmed that tourism in the region remained largely inactive during the 2025 season, causing serious economic concerns for the local population.
