Visit Pakistan: 20 new must-see destinations for tourists

Dubai: Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has called for an ambitious, comprehensive action plan aimed at unlocking Pakistan’s vast tourism potential by developing 20 new tourist destinations across the country.

Chairing a high-level meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office, he underscored the country’s unmatched natural beauty, rich heritage, and diverse landscapes as key assets to position Pakistan prominently on the global tourism map.

Highlighting the country’s remarkable variety from the snow-capped peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan and the pristine valleys to deserts, lush forests, rivers, and a sprawling coastline, Sharif emphasised the need for swift development of world-class infrastructure. This includes high-quality hotels, resorts, modern recreational facilities, and seamless connectivity to attract both domestic and international travellers, according to official Pakistani media.

“We are blessed with some of the world’s oldest civilisations and natural wonders. It is imperative that we harness these strengths by upgrading facilities and improving accessibility to ensure Pakistan emerges as a top travel destination,” Sharif noted.

He directed authorities to prioritise actionable projects that can be implemented quickly, especially in key regions such as Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. He also stressed that all developments must be climate-resilient, ensuring sustainable growth that preserves Pakistan’s natural environment.

During the meeting, Tourism Coordinator Sardar Yasir Ilyas presented an extensive plan focused on expanding the sector’s contribution to Pakistan’s GDP by welcoming more foreign tourists and promoting 20 new emerging destinations nationwide. Additional initiatives include boosting religious and medical tourism, sectors seen as critical for future growth.

To further stimulate investment, a National Tourism Expo and Investment Conference will soon be held in Islamabad, aiming to attract global and domestic investors eager to participate in the country’s tourism boom.

Key federal ministers and senior officials, including Ahsan Iqbal, Shaza Fatima, Hanif Abbasi, Aurangzeb Khichi, and Rana Sanaullah, participated in the strategic session, reflecting the government’s unified commitment to revitalising Pakistan’s tourism industry.