Revamping Pakistan’s Tourism

Reviving Pakistan’s Tourism – The Promise of Green Tourism
Travelers seeking adventure and originality will find Pakistan to be an enticing destination due to its various landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The country's tourism destinations, which range from the breathtaking Himalayan peaks to the tranquil Arabian Sea beaches, provide a unique way of life that combines old traditions with modern hospitality. Green tourism is becoming more and more popular, and this is greatly contributing to the promotion of sustainable practices that help protect the environment and assist local people. By placing a high priority on environmentally friendly projects, Pakistan is improving the traveler experience and encouraging a closer bond between visitors and the stunning natural beauty that characterizes this unique country.
Pakistan's prominence as an excellent tourism destination is further enhanced by popular tourist attractions spread throughout the nation. An amazing trip is made possible by the spectacular scenery of the Hunza Valley, the historical significance of Lahore, the picturesque lakes of Skardu, the lively culture of Karachi, and the innovative buildings of Islamabad. Furthermore, Pakistan's natural beauty, historical significance, and welcoming citizens draw tourists from China, Saudi Arabia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Turkey. This varied flood of visitors promotes cross-cultural interaction and puts Pakistan on the map as an appealing travel destination.
Revamping Pakistan’s Tourism
Although Pakistan has a lot of potential, it is not yet at the same level as where it should have been. Following the consensus, all provincial and governmental leaders concurred that Pakistan's tourism industry needs to be strengthened. According to data, the GDP share of Pakistan tourism is 5.8%. Some countries have a share of 35%. Pakistan tourism GDP is 5.8%, agriculture is 24%, services and production GDP is 56% and Mineral GDP is 2.5%. 5.8% for tourism is not a fair share for Pakistan, when it has great potential. In a further 10 to 12 years, this might generate a benefit of $36 billion if it is improved to even 8%.
Nonetheless, Pakistan has managed to rank 101st in the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 by the World Economic Forum. Pakistan has improved by twenty ranks after the 2019 rating was published.
Furthermore, there are 5 million workers in Pakistan's tourism industry. There are far too many people for the 250 million people living there. So, this program will result in opportunities for employment for citizens.
There is an inescapable quality in tourism destinations of Pakistan. It is high to mention some sites as related with Pakistan exclusively. Religious travel has the potential to be profitable. 99% of the Gurdwaras, or places where Sikh pilgrims gather, are located in Pakistan. Sikhs flock in large numbers to visit their sacred sites. The same is the case with Buddhism. More than 500 million people worship the Buddha, and many of them come to Pakistan to do so. Without making any money, Pakistan has permitted followers of various religions to travel to their pilgrimages located close to its borders.
The incredibly beautiful but underdeveloped regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan benefit greatly from the establishment of Special Investment Facilitation Councils (SIFCs) and Integrated Tourism Zones (ITZs). SIFC guarantees that the aforementioned places will fulfill the standards of every 21st-century tourism destination by preserving an ecological balance with the assistance of foreign investors.
The Green Pakistan Tourism program, which serves this vision, seeks to promote sustainable ecotourism throughout the nation and provide top-notch experiences for local and foreign tourists looking for adventure, spirituality, and scenic beauty. This program aims to make eco-friendly travel accessible and appealing to everyone by offering cozy, reasonably priced accommodations as well as effective air and land transportation choices.

1. A Symphony of Landscapes and Heritage – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is well-known for the stunning Kaghan and Swat valleys. ITZ's goal has always been to transform this region into a fantastic source of inspiration for travelers. This is a significant milestone as the federal government has now given Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's administration authority over the properties controlled by the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was renting these locations for thirty years at a forty percent profit split. In the long run, this will end up in higher employment rates and more business prospects.

A. Malam Jabba
Skiers swirl about Malam Jabba, Pakistan's largest and best ski resort.
Malam Jabba Resort provides a range of activities to take advantage of the stunning scenery, cool climate, and expansive vistas of Swat Valley. For exhilarating aerial viewpoints, try the chair lift, zip line, huge swing, and sling shot.

B. Swat Valley
This Malakand Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, often known as Swat District, boasts picturesque scenery and snow-capped mountains. Because of the region's increased infrastructure and security, tourism has significantly increased.
In addition to focusing on ecologically friendly infrastructure, such eco-lodges and ethical waste management, efforts are made to promote local culture and heritage. This program helps local communities by creating jobs and fostering economic growth in addition to protecting Swat's incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. By prioritizing sustainability, Green Pakistan Tourism ensures that Swat remains a pristine destination for future generations and draws attention to the importance of Swat within Pakistan's broader tourism industry.

C. Kumrat Valley
Its breathtaking natural splendor, which includes verdant woods, snow-capped mountains, glistening rivers, and majestic waterfalls, makes for an amazing experience. The icing on the cake is that Kumrat Valley is safe for travelers, including families.

2. Gilgit Baltistan
The Hidden Paradise of Pakistan – Gilgit Baltistan
Being a paradise indeed, Gilgit Baltistan is essential to complete tourism of Pakistan. Gilgit Baltistan is essential to Pakistan's tourism industry as it is a paradise. It makes it possible for visitors to take part in an unforgettable tour that is hard to find elsewhere around the globe. Sadly, this area has very inadequate facilities and has received very little investment.
For Gilgit Baltistan, SIFC’s philosophy is revolutionary. They are concentrating their efforts on underbuilt hotels. Additionally, they have expressed interest in promoting ecotourism as a means of reviving country economies and enhancing traveler experiences. Three billion rupees have already been set up for Gilgit Baltistan's development projects, which are predicted to create 4,000 indirect jobs in addition to over 300 direct positions. SIFC aims to maintain Gilgit Baltistan as an unaffected destination while assisting its locals with its rapidly growing tourism industry.

A. Fairy Meadows
Fairy Meadows, the center of beautiful North Pakistan, is a well-liked trekking destination with environmental conservation projects. It is renowned for its verdant plateaus and is home to Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world.

B. Hunza Valley
Surrounded by numerous stunning high peaks, including Ladyfinger Peak, Pakaposhi, and Hunza Peak, Hunza Valley boasts an abundance of breathtaking natural sceneries that serve as the primary draw for all visitors. It has the Altit and Baltit Forts in addition to these attractions.

C. Naltar Valley
Summer and winter visitors both continue to flock to Naltar Valley. It adds even more beauty with its skiing areas and generally wonderful weather. Some would characterize winter weather as frigid to humid cool, and summer temperatures as high as 19°C (67°F) to 6°C (42°F).

3. Nature’s Breathtaking Canvas - Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Azad Jammu and Kashmir, known for its beautiful scenery, verdant valleys, and rich cultural legacy, has a great deal of potential to rank among the most popular tourist destinations. SIFC is concentrating on improving the infrastructure and amenities of Integrated Tourism Zones (ITZs) to attract more tourists by improving accessibility.
As the SIFC works hard to protect the area's natural beauty while fostering economic progress, Azad Jammu and Kashmir is expected to develop into a thriving center for adventure and ecotourism that draws tourists from all over the world.

A. Muzaffarabad
Muzaffarabad provides sweeping views of the Jhelum River, the surrounding mountains, and woods. The region is renowned for its plentiful greenery, especially during the spring when wildflowers are in full bloom.

B. Neelum Valley
Renowned for having dense forests and a lovely stream that enhances the attractiveness of the valley. Neelum Valley is made more beautiful by the fauna and the verdant plains. June through September is the ideal time of year to visit.
Numerous ancient sites may be found in the valley, which is also full with scenic natural features. The great majority of tourists are drawn to it, and each year that number rises.

C. Rawalakot
Known as "Heaven on Earth," Rawalakot is regarded as the jewel of Kashmir. It is a sanctuary for those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure because it is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and thick forests. It is mostly known for tourism and its natural beauty. It draws a wide spectrum of visitors, including adventure seekers seeking trekking and camping options as well as families wanting a peaceful retreat.

4. Balochistan
One of Pakistan's most alluring and sought-after travel destinations is Balochistan. It offers breathtaking mountain ranges, fascinating deserts, enticing beaches, waterfalls, a tranquil coastline area, and historical landmarks, making it a possible location for the growth of sustainable tourism.

A. Sonmiani Beach
Sonmiani Beach, another stunning travel location included in the Green Pakistan Tourism initiative, is well-known for its immaculate sands and crystal-clear water. It is being marketed for the preservation of its natural environment and potential for ecotourism. Numerous marine species can be found at the beach, which also works to preserve responsible tourism practices and marine biodiversity.

B. Astola Island
This seven-hilled island is well-known for its pristine beauty, unusual geological formations, and abundant wildlife. The largest offshore island in Pakistan, it serves as a crucial nesting site for the critically endangered hawksbill and green turtles.