Pakistan’s Mountain Wonderland Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has been recognized among top 25 travel destinations for 2025 by CNN Travel. The picturesque region, nestled in the Karakoram Mountains, is famous for its highest peaks, including K2, and the people of the this beautiful land add its charm for foreigners.
In 2025 travel guide, CNN mentioned the Pakistani northern area for its unparalleled natural beauty, as tens of thousands visit this region. GB is home to some of world’s 14 highest mountains, making it a prime spot for mountaineers and adventure seekers. Hundreds of foreign climbers applying for permits to scale its peaks last year.
CNN best places to visit guide 2025
Destination | Highlights |
Gilgit-Baltistan | Beautiful destination with breathtaking mountain scenery; home to many high peaks including K2. |
Almaty, Kazakhstan | Thriving arts scene, Neo Nomad cuisine, easy access to Tian Shan mountains, historic museums. |
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India | Home to untouched beaches, water activities like snorkeling, and vibrant local culture. |
Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines | Famous for its beaches, charming island culture, and the annual TradeWinds yacht event. |
Bolivia |
Mus try food scene, diverse landscapes including Uyuni salt flats, Lake Titicaca, and rich cultural history. |
Chemnitz, Germany | street art, impressive architectural mix, European Capital of Culture, features jazz, and indie festivals |
England’s Footpaths | Iconic historic footpaths, must visit trails include Pennine Way and Capital Ring Walk. |
Eswatini and Mpumalanga, South Africa | Stunning nature reserves and the vibrant culture of Eswatini. |
Gdańsk, Poland | Cool architecture, notable museums including the Museum of the Second World War |
Italian Trains | Launch of luxury La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a focus on luxurious and efficient train travel around Italy with great connections and new routes. |
Kackar Mountains, Turkey | Alpine region with stunning scenery, accessible hiking, and winter sports |
Kansai, Japan | Kansai offers cultural experiences in Nara, Kobe’s culinary delights, and attractions like Himeji Castle. |
Mendoza, Argentina | Stunning landscapes and culinary experiences, especially during the annual Fiesta de la Vendimia. |
Nashville, Tennessee | Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary celebrations; new mixed-use developments and a growing Asian culinary scene. |
Niue | Pristine island paradise, whale-watching opportunities, excellent marine reserves, and a stargazing haven. |
Nuuk, Greenland | Cultural experiences and stunning natural landscapes including icebergs and fjords. |
The Ozarks, USA | Picturque mountain region known for Branson’s entertainment, conservation parks. |
Rabat, Morocco | Modern capital with new developments. |
Romania | Famous for medieval castles, and the Via Transilvanica hiking trail through rural areas. |
San Francisco de Campeche, Mexico | Historic architecture, seafood cuisine, and UNESCO Heritage sites |
Sierra Leone | Must seen beaches, rich culture, unique adventures for intrepid travelers. |
Stockholm, Sweden | Extensive hiking trails and a rich cultural heritage; plenty of museums and activities. |
Taupō, New Zealand | Breathtaking landscapes including Māori rock carvings and famous waterfalls – culinary and dining experiences are also amazing. |
Vancouver Island, Canada | Wild landscapes, adventure opportunities, float resorts reopening, and the famous Butchart Gardens. |
Vermont’s Rail Trails | Attract a lot of tourists for its rail trails for walking, biking, and winter sports. |