What is the condition of tourism in Pakistan?

The condition of tourism in Pakistan has seen significant improvements and growth in recent years, despite some ongoing challenges.

Positive Developments

• Pakistan's tourism industry has been recognized globally for its potential. In 2018, the British Backpacker Society ranked Pakistan as the world's top adventure travel destination, and Condé Nast Traveller declared it one of the "Best Holiday Destinations" for 202012.
• The country has made substantial progress in improving its tourism infrastructure and services. The government has eased visa policies, eliminated the need for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for many areas, and enhanced security measures, which have contributed to an increase in tourist arrivals12.
• International arrivals have shown a steady increase, from 924,000 in 2013 to 3.58 million in 2019. Although the COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant drop in 2020, the numbers have been recovering, with 1.91 million international arrivals in 20222.
• The World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report noted a six-point improvement in Pakistan's ranking, placing it 83rd globally, a significant progress since 20192.

Economic Impact

• Tourism has become a notable contributor to Pakistan's economy. In 2016, the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Pakistan's GDP was Rs. 793 billion (equivalent to Rs. 4.0 trillion or US$14 billion in 2021), constituting 2.7% of the total GDP. The government predicts that by 2025, tourism will contribute Rs. 1 trillion (US$3.5 billion) to the Pakistani economy1.

Safety and Security

• After years of struggle with terrorism and violence, many areas in Pakistan are now considered safe for both local and foreign tourists. The military and intelligence agencies have played a crucial role in maintaining peace and security, especially in the northern areas13.
• However, there are still some regions that are considered riskier, such as Balochistan, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), and certain parts of Kashmir. These areas often require NOCs for foreign tourists, and some are off-limits due to security concerns3.

Tourist Attractions

• Pakistan is rich in historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Major tourist sites include the ruins of Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, the Himalayan hill stations, K2 and other high mountain peaks, the Hunza and Chitral valleys, and the historic city of Lahore with its Mughal architecture12.

Domestic Tourism

• Domestic tourism remains a significant sector, with an estimated 50 million tourists traveling within the country on short trips, mainly between May and August1.

Overall, while there are still some security and infrastructure challenges, Pakistan's tourism industry is on the rise, driven by improved security, enhanced infrastructure, and proactive government policies.