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[VIDEOS] How is the tourism industry like in Pakistan currently?
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FearlessRoar
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Lahore to get Pakistan’s first floating restaurant
As per details, this unique venture will be Pakistan’s first floating restaurant, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
The floating hotel will be constructed near Harbanspura, on the canal, with an estimated cost of Rs 350 million. The project will feature sitting areas, children’s play areas, and other recreational facilities.
PHA stated that three companies have pre-qualified for the project, which is expected to be completed soon.
In a separate development, Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar announced the launch of “Pink Buses” designated for women in Lahore.
The transport minister made these remarks while addressing the Punjab Assembly. Bilal Akbar said that the Pink buses will be introduced on 16 routes across Lahore, with one to two buses allocated per route .
He said that a total of 300 buses will be plying in Lahore to facilitate women’s transportation. The transport minister said that the buses will operate on 16 designated routes across the city.
Bilal Akbar also announced to construct the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in other cities including Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Multan.
“Lahore has already seen significant investment, and now it is time to focus on other cities,” he added.
He said that 5,000 to 6,000 buses will be allocated to each divisional headquarter.
arynews.tv
As per details, this unique venture will be Pakistan’s first floating restaurant, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
The floating hotel will be constructed near Harbanspura, on the canal, with an estimated cost of Rs 350 million. The project will feature sitting areas, children’s play areas, and other recreational facilities.
PHA stated that three companies have pre-qualified for the project, which is expected to be completed soon.
In a separate development, Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar announced the launch of “Pink Buses” designated for women in Lahore.
The transport minister made these remarks while addressing the Punjab Assembly. Bilal Akbar said that the Pink buses will be introduced on 16 routes across Lahore, with one to two buses allocated per route .
He said that a total of 300 buses will be plying in Lahore to facilitate women’s transportation. The transport minister said that the buses will operate on 16 designated routes across the city.
Bilal Akbar also announced to construct the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in other cities including Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Multan.
“Lahore has already seen significant investment, and now it is time to focus on other cities,” he added.
He said that 5,000 to 6,000 buses will be allocated to each divisional headquarter.
Lahore to get Pakistan's first floating restaurant
LAHORE: Lahore is set to get its first-ever floating restaurant, a project announced by the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), ARY News reported. As
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Gilgit-Baltistan named among top 25 destinations to visit by CNN
Gilgit-Baltistan is considered a hidden gem and the most untapped region among the world’s top destinations.
CNN Travel has unveiled its list of the top 25 destinations to visit in 2025, which includes Gilgit-Baltistan.
This stunning region in the Karakoram Mountains is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
CNN Travel in its article titled “Where to go in 2025: The best places to visit” curated a list of 25 destinations which are particularly worth visiting in 2025.
“Back in the 1970s, Pakistan was an adventure travel hot spot, its sublime mountain scenery a key stop on the “Hippie Trail” overland route from Europe to South Asia. Decades of political instability put an end to that, but those epic peaks haven’t gone anywhere”, CNN Travel said.
The article highlight “The Gilgit-Baltistan region in the Karokoram Mountains isn’t the easiest place to get to — flight schedules can be unreliable, roads can be blocked off seasonally — but it has more tantalizing peaks than a lemon meringue pie”.
The US broadcaster further stated “It’s home to five of the 14 “eight-thousander” peaks recognized as the world’s highest. That includes K2, the world’s second-tallest mountain but No. 1 in terms of difficulty and danger”, adding that in terms of tourism and infrastructure, hiking in this region makes the Himalayas look like a traipse in Central Park.
arynews.tv
Gilgit-Baltistan is considered a hidden gem and the most untapped region among the world’s top destinations.
CNN Travel has unveiled its list of the top 25 destinations to visit in 2025, which includes Gilgit-Baltistan.
This stunning region in the Karakoram Mountains is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
CNN Travel in its article titled “Where to go in 2025: The best places to visit” curated a list of 25 destinations which are particularly worth visiting in 2025.
“Back in the 1970s, Pakistan was an adventure travel hot spot, its sublime mountain scenery a key stop on the “Hippie Trail” overland route from Europe to South Asia. Decades of political instability put an end to that, but those epic peaks haven’t gone anywhere”, CNN Travel said.
The article highlight “The Gilgit-Baltistan region in the Karokoram Mountains isn’t the easiest place to get to — flight schedules can be unreliable, roads can be blocked off seasonally — but it has more tantalizing peaks than a lemon meringue pie”.
The US broadcaster further stated “It’s home to five of the 14 “eight-thousander” peaks recognized as the world’s highest. That includes K2, the world’s second-tallest mountain but No. 1 in terms of difficulty and danger”, adding that in terms of tourism and infrastructure, hiking in this region makes the Himalayas look like a traipse in Central Park.
Gilgit-Baltistan named among top 25 destinations to visit by CNN
Gilgit-Baltistan is considered a hidden gem and the most untapped region among the world’s top destinations. CNN Travel has unveiled its list of the top
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Pakistan named in Financial Times’ 50 best destinations in 2025
Pakistan has been included in the Financial Times’ prestigious list of “50 Destinations to Take in 2025”.
This recognition highlights the country’s growing appeal as a premier travel destination, particularly for trekking enthusiasts drawn to the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Pakistan.
Northern Pakistan is home to some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring mountain scenery in the world.
The region’s rugged beauty, combined with an improved security situation, enhanced accessibility, and better accommodation options, has led to an increasing number of visitors discovering its hidden gems.
In August 2024, Pakistan introduced a groundbreaking initiative offering free online visas to citizens of more than 120 countries, further facilitating travel and tourism. This move aims to attract global tourists, encouraging them to explore the diverse cultural, historical, and natural treasures the country has to offer.
arynews.tv
Pakistan has been included in the Financial Times’ prestigious list of “50 Destinations to Take in 2025”.
This recognition highlights the country’s growing appeal as a premier travel destination, particularly for trekking enthusiasts drawn to the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Pakistan.
Northern Pakistan is home to some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring mountain scenery in the world.
The region’s rugged beauty, combined with an improved security situation, enhanced accessibility, and better accommodation options, has led to an increasing number of visitors discovering its hidden gems.
In August 2024, Pakistan introduced a groundbreaking initiative offering free online visas to citizens of more than 120 countries, further facilitating travel and tourism. This move aims to attract global tourists, encouraging them to explore the diverse cultural, historical, and natural treasures the country has to offer.
Pakistan named in Financial Times' 50 best destinations in 2025
Pakistan has been included in the Financial Times' prestigious list of "50 Destinations to Take in 2025". This recognition highlights the country's
arynews.tv
This is actually a very good initiative by Pak. Here is the list of the 126 countries that have a visa free entry to Pak :Pakistan named in Financial Times’ 50 best destinations in 2025
Pakistan has been included in the Financial Times’ prestigious list of “50 Destinations to Take in 2025”.
This recognition highlights the country’s growing appeal as a premier travel destination, particularly for trekking enthusiasts drawn to the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Pakistan.
Northern Pakistan is home to some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring mountain scenery in the world.
The region’s rugged beauty, combined with an improved security situation, enhanced accessibility, and better accommodation options, has led to an increasing number of visitors discovering its hidden gems.
In August 2024, Pakistan introduced a groundbreaking initiative offering free online visas to citizens of more than 120 countries, further facilitating travel and tourism. This move aims to attract global tourists, encouraging them to explore the diverse cultural, historical, and natural treasures the country has to offer.
Pakistan named in Financial Times' 50 best destinations in 2025
Pakistan has been included in the Financial Times' prestigious list of "50 Destinations to Take in 2025". This recognition highlights the country's
List of Countries for Visa Prior to Arrival - Pakistan Online Visa System
Pakistan Online Visa System
Not sure what the guidelines are for a US citizen but of Ind origin or parents of Ind origin.. Wouldnt mind visiting Pak and maybe even meet some of the posters here and continue the forum debate in person over a hot lunch or dinner or more probably posters here would like to offer me some "fantastic tea" LOL !
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Tourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall
A heavy influx of tourists from various parts of the country thronged the scenic snow-clad Neelam Valley of Azad Jammu Kashmir on Sunday.
After over three months of dry weather, the higher reach-es of the picturesque valley lashed with the 3rd spell of the highest snowfall, bringing delight to residents and tourists.
Subordinate Graze Valley has disliked from central spots following heavy intermittent snowfall at the highest reaches of the snow-clad Neelam Valley, State Disaster Management Authority sources told APP.
Tourist hotspots in the picturesque, mountainous terrain of the picturesque valley witnessed varying degrees of medi-um- to high-level snowfall.
The popular snow-clad resorts turned in the scenic valley turned into playgrounds for tourists from various parts of Pakistan and AJK, capturing memorable moments and ex-pressing joy by playing in the snow.
Meanwhile, forecast anticipates the possibility of light to moderate rain or snow in many places at both sides of the LoC in IIOJ&K state, with heavy snowfall expected in isolat-ed upper reaches of Indian Illegally occupied Kashmir Divi-sion, including districts such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandi-pora, Ganderbal, Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam, says a re-port reaching from across the line of control (LoC).
The residents of these high-altitude areas have been strict-ly advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing into ava-lanche-prone zones over the next 24 hours, according to AJKSDMA.
It recommends that people stay informed about the situa-tion and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate the risk of potential avalanches in the snow-clad areas.
Tourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall | The Express Tribune
Tourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall
tribune.com.pk
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‘Safe tourism’ app introduced for Neelum valley
In a bid to promote safe tourism and ensure the safety of visitors, the administration in the breathtaking Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has launched an internet application alongside policy guidelines for the tourism sector.
The app, developed in collaboration with the AJK Information Technology (IT) Board, aims to keep the administration updated on tourist accommodations, contact details, and itineraries, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Neelum, Nadeem Ahmed Janjua, told Dawn on Thursday.
Last year, the valley, which boasts a 150-kilometre main road stretching from Nauseri to the scenic village of Taobutt along the Neelum River, welcomed over 550,000 tourists from across the country, Mr Janjua said.
“With 40 link roads and 8-10 fair weather roads connecting the valley’s population of 220,000 to their homes, accessibility is both a challenge and a blessing,” he added.
Highlighting safety concerns, Mr Janjua pointed out that the valley, like other high-altitude regions, was prone to natural disasters such as cloudburst-induced floods, avalanches, and landslides.
These hazards, combined with the challenging mountainous terrain, often led to fatal accidents, particularly among tourists unfamiliar with local road conditions, he said.
Additionally, he pointed out that incidents like selfie-related falls and tragedies caused by negligence, such as leaving gas or coal heaters running, had underscored the need for stricter safety protocols.
“In such unfortunate situations, it becomes difficult for the administration to contact the victims’ families promptly, which is why the app is a game-changer for us,” he asserted.
Mr Janjua informed that earlier in the day, a meeting with representatives of the local Guesthouse and Hotel Association had been convened to brief them on the app’s utility and operational requirements.
“It was decided that comprehensive data of tourists staying in the valley would be recorded through the app. In areas where internet access is unavailable, this information will be communicated via phone to the local police station, which will transfer it to a pro forma and ensure its submission to the Superintendent of Police’s office by 1pm daily,” he said.
The DC also elaborated on the safety measures mandated by the administration.
He said the newly inaugurated rest houses, guesthouses, and hotels were required to install fire extinguishers and emergency exits.
“Management is also directed to discourage guests from approaching dangerous water channels and to prominently display advisory notices and emergency contact numbers in every room.”
For tourists venturing to high-altitude destinations such as Ratti Gali, Patlian, and Baboon, only well-maintained vehicles operated by licensed drivers would be allowed, he said, adding that registered tour operators had been instructed to comply with this requirement without exception.
In a bid to promote safe tourism and ensure the safety of visitors, the administration in the breathtaking Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has launched an internet application alongside policy guidelines for the tourism sector.
The app, developed in collaboration with the AJK Information Technology (IT) Board, aims to keep the administration updated on tourist accommodations, contact details, and itineraries, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Neelum, Nadeem Ahmed Janjua, told Dawn on Thursday.
Last year, the valley, which boasts a 150-kilometre main road stretching from Nauseri to the scenic village of Taobutt along the Neelum River, welcomed over 550,000 tourists from across the country, Mr Janjua said.
“With 40 link roads and 8-10 fair weather roads connecting the valley’s population of 220,000 to their homes, accessibility is both a challenge and a blessing,” he added.
Highlighting safety concerns, Mr Janjua pointed out that the valley, like other high-altitude regions, was prone to natural disasters such as cloudburst-induced floods, avalanches, and landslides.
These hazards, combined with the challenging mountainous terrain, often led to fatal accidents, particularly among tourists unfamiliar with local road conditions, he said.
Additionally, he pointed out that incidents like selfie-related falls and tragedies caused by negligence, such as leaving gas or coal heaters running, had underscored the need for stricter safety protocols.
“In such unfortunate situations, it becomes difficult for the administration to contact the victims’ families promptly, which is why the app is a game-changer for us,” he asserted.
Mr Janjua informed that earlier in the day, a meeting with representatives of the local Guesthouse and Hotel Association had been convened to brief them on the app’s utility and operational requirements.
“It was decided that comprehensive data of tourists staying in the valley would be recorded through the app. In areas where internet access is unavailable, this information will be communicated via phone to the local police station, which will transfer it to a pro forma and ensure its submission to the Superintendent of Police’s office by 1pm daily,” he said.
The DC also elaborated on the safety measures mandated by the administration.
He said the newly inaugurated rest houses, guesthouses, and hotels were required to install fire extinguishers and emergency exits.
“Management is also directed to discourage guests from approaching dangerous water channels and to prominently display advisory notices and emergency contact numbers in every room.”
For tourists venturing to high-altitude destinations such as Ratti Gali, Patlian, and Baboon, only well-maintained vehicles operated by licensed drivers would be allowed, he said, adding that registered tour operators had been instructed to comply with this requirement without exception.
‘Safe tourism’ app introduced for Neelum valley
App aims to keep the administration updated on tourist accommodations, contact details, and itineraries.
www.dawn.com
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Poor infrastructure thwarts tourism in K-P
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), with its stunning natural landscape and rich cultural heritage, holds immense potential as a leading tourism destination. However, the province's capacity to attract and accommodate tourists remains largely untapped due to poor infrastructure and a lack of basic facilities in key tourist areas.
Every summer, tourists from across Pakistan and abroad flock to picturesque mountain destinations such as Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Malam Jabba, Bahrain, Galiyat, and Kaghan. These regions, with their breathtaking views and pleasant weather, offer a break from the scorching heat of the lowlands. However, residents and social activists opine that despite the surge in tourism, the government has failed to provide the necessary infrastructure and services to support the demand for tourism.
Jawad Ali, a social activist from Kalam, shared his two cents on the untapped tourism potential of K-P. "Thousands of tourists visit our region every year. While the government has made some progress in road development, there is still a severe lack of basic facilities. If the government is serious about promoting tourism, it must prioritize road improvement and regional development," emphasized Ali.
According to data obtained from the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Authority, a total of 7,664 foreign tourists visited K-P between January and December 2024, while the number of domestic tourists reached a staggering 20,618,162. Popular destinations such as Upper Dir welcomed 480 foreign tourists, Malam Jabba 2,479, Kalam 18, Bahrain 36, Galiyat 207, Upper Chitral 851, Lower Chitral 2,376, and Kaghan 1,217 during this period. This was a sharp rise from 2023, when 4,582 foreign tourists and 17,398,304 local tourists visited K-P.
For the first five months of 2025, up to May 6th, K-P welcomed 2,499 foreign tourists and 296,830 domestic travelers. The overall number of tourists visiting K-P increased by 18.5 per cent over the past two years. While these figures indicate the potential of K-P to emerge as a popular travel destination, the condition of roads and other infrastructure continues to disappoint visitors.
Syed Amjad Ali Shah, a resident of Dir, expressed his frustration over the state of the dilapidated road network. "Thousands of tourists, both local and foreign, come here every year, but many turn back once they see the poor state of the roads. Many people have built large hotels and plazas alongside the rivers, which increases the risk of floods and damages local infrastructure. The government must take strict action against land encroachers and prioritize sustainable development. Repairing roads and improving access to tourist destinations will not only attract more tourists but will also uplift the region's economy." implored Shah.
Tourism experts agree that addressing these infrastructural issues could significantly boost the province's economy since access to developed roads, clean water, waste management systems, and adherence to tourist safety measures are essential for long-term growth in tourism-based economies. Furthermore, enhancing local capacity and preserving the environment must also be key components of any development plan.
Director General of Tourism and Culture, Arif Habib, told The Express Tribune that while efforts were underway to promote tourism in K-P, some areas were still facing infrastructural challenges, particularly poor road conditions.
"The responsibility for road rehabilitation lies with the National Highway Authority (NHA). Tourism is the second most important sector in the world after communication. Therefore, in order to encourage foreign tourists, we have waived the 400 US dollars fee previously charged to international climbers aiming to summit Tirich Mir. However, tourism in K-P is closely tied to peace hence sustainable tourism cannot thrive without stability in the region," said Habib.
While pondering over the future of tourism in the province, locals like Shah believed that if tourists were guaranteed proper facilities, they would visit in greater numbers. "This would not only strengthen Pakistan's economy but will also boost its reputation as a welcoming country across the globe," added Shah.
Source: The Express Tribune
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Need to take action against this hotelTourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall
A heavy influx of tourists from various parts of the country thronged the scenic snow-clad Neelam Valley of Azad Jammu Kashmir on Sunday.
After over three months of dry weather, the higher reach-es of the picturesque valley lashed with the 3rd spell of the highest snowfall, bringing delight to residents and tourists.
Subordinate Graze Valley has disliked from central spots following heavy intermittent snowfall at the highest reaches of the snow-clad Neelam Valley, State Disaster Management Authority sources told APP.
Tourist hotspots in the picturesque, mountainous terrain of the picturesque valley witnessed varying degrees of medi-um- to high-level snowfall.
The popular snow-clad resorts turned in the scenic valley turned into playgrounds for tourists from various parts of Pakistan and AJK, capturing memorable moments and ex-pressing joy by playing in the snow.
Meanwhile, forecast anticipates the possibility of light to moderate rain or snow in many places at both sides of the LoC in IIOJ&K state, with heavy snowfall expected in isolat-ed upper reaches of Indian Illegally occupied Kashmir Divi-sion, including districts such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandi-pora, Ganderbal, Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam, says a re-port reaching from across the line of control (LoC).
The residents of these high-altitude areas have been strict-ly advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing into ava-lanche-prone zones over the next 24 hours, according to AJKSDMA.
It recommends that people stay informed about the situa-tion and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate the risk of potential avalanches in the snow-clad areas.
Tourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall | The Express Tribune
Tourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall
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Hunza hotel fined, rooms sealed over viral video claiming pollution
A viral video by a foreign travel vlogger has triggered swift action by local authorities against a private hotel on the banks of the scenic Attabad Lake in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The hotel faces serious allegations of discharging untreated sewage into the lake’s pristine waters, prompting environmental concerns and a public outcry on social media.
The controversy began when George Buckley, a travel influencer and vlogger, visited Attabad Lake and shared a video claiming that the hotel concerned was allegedly polluting the lake. He pointed to a brownish tint in parts of the water and a foul smell, suggesting sewage discharge as the cause. Buckley also cited a local resident who informed him about the alleged contamination.
The video rapidly went viral, sparking outrage among environmentalists, tourists, and citizens who demanded immediate government intervention. In response, the director of the Gilgit-Baltistan Environment Department and the deputy commissioner of Hunza conducted a surprise inspection of the hotel.
Following the visit, the administration sealed rooms with damaged manholes and fined the hotel Rs1.5 million. Authorities also issued a notice instructing the hotel management to upgrade its sewage system within a week in accordance with ecological and environmental standards.
www.samaa.tv
A viral video by a foreign travel vlogger has triggered swift action by local authorities against a private hotel on the banks of the scenic Attabad Lake in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The hotel faces serious allegations of discharging untreated sewage into the lake’s pristine waters, prompting environmental concerns and a public outcry on social media.
The controversy began when George Buckley, a travel influencer and vlogger, visited Attabad Lake and shared a video claiming that the hotel concerned was allegedly polluting the lake. He pointed to a brownish tint in parts of the water and a foul smell, suggesting sewage discharge as the cause. Buckley also cited a local resident who informed him about the alleged contamination.
The video rapidly went viral, sparking outrage among environmentalists, tourists, and citizens who demanded immediate government intervention. In response, the director of the Gilgit-Baltistan Environment Department and the deputy commissioner of Hunza conducted a surprise inspection of the hotel.
Following the visit, the administration sealed rooms with damaged manholes and fined the hotel Rs1.5 million. Authorities also issued a notice instructing the hotel management to upgrade its sewage system within a week in accordance with ecological and environmental standards.
Hunza hotel fined, rooms sealed over viral video claiming pollution
A viral video by a foreign vlogger accusing Luxus Hunza of polluting Attabad Lake prompts swift action by authorities. The hotel denies sewage discharge, citing natural glacial silt.
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Eco reckoning
It took a video by British vlogger George Buckley to jolt the Gilgit-Baltistan government into action and expose what the hospitality industry is doing to our mountain region. Swift action by GB’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led to the authorities partially sealing the Luxus Resort at Attabad and fining it for dumping wastewater into the lake — which the resort denies. The issue of illegal expansion remains.
It’s time to hold the government accountable and ask it some tough questions. Why are hotels able to violate regulations so easily? Why don’t the authorities intervene the moment the first spade hits the ground? Why is action taken only after massive structures are in place and only when outsiders expose violations?
In the case of Luxus — and the string of hotels lining the lakeside — why was monitoring so lax? If the sewage treatment plant was missing or malfunctioning, why did it escape the authorities’ notice? The EPA may be severely understaffed — reportedly, just 15 personnel are responsible for the entire GB region — but what about the lake magistrate, deputed by the district administration?
No lessons seem to have been drawn from the 2022 floods, when a multistorey hotel, built in violation of riverbank safety regulations, was swept away by the Swat River in Kalam. If not for timely evacuation, lives could have been lost. These aren’t just policy failures; they’re existential threats to people and the ecosystem. This wasn’t the first incident, and won’t be the last. Regulatory failure is part of the problem, but so are consumer expectations. We all crave luxury: endless hot showers, fresh linen, bottled water and climate control (air conditioning and heating) around the clock. The hotel industry is simply meeting that demand, but often at nature’s expense.
Can luxury tourism coexist with sustainability?
Can luxury tourism truly coexist with sustainability? After all, when we think of stunning landscapes and lavish comforts, eco-conscious planning isn’t the first thing on our minds. But that’s beginning to change, especially among younger travellers from the Gen Z cohort. They’re asking for more from their stays — not just comfort and style, but also environmental accountability. Governments are beginning to respond with tougher rules for energy use, emissions and the way hotels manage their waste.
A mix of customer pressure, social awareness and regulatory enforcement is forcing the global hotel industry to change — even if altruism isn’t always the motive. Many also see that going green isn’t just good for the planet; it makes for smart business too. Pakistan’s hoteliers must understand that sustainability is smart business. Changes like water-saving fixtures, leak detection, dual-flush toilets, rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient lighting can lead to major savings.
Hotels here can start small. For example, they can cut food waste by using bulk breakfast items, instead of individually packed servings, compost kitchen scraps for gardens and donate leftovers to local charities. In addition, they can cut waste by using reusable mugs, refillable bottles and water stations. Shared shuttle services to tourist sites can reduce both emissions and congestion. Adding towel racks that encourage reuse can save water and energy.
However, it must be understood that hospitality and environmental responsibility go hand in hand, not just for industry but for travellers as well. That’s where the concept of destination stewardship comes in. Karachi-based environmental scientist Dr Fozia Parveen, a native of Khyber village in Hunza’s Gojal Valley, explains this concept. “It’s about visitors taking responsibility for shared, limited natural resources, like land, water and forests, and choosing to travel more mindfully,” she says. It also means adopting eco-friendly habits and supporting hospitality models that are equitable, affordable, and centred on local communities — the ones that are gentle on the planet without sacrificing comfort or style, she explains.
A member of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders Class of 2025, Dr Parveen has consistently raised awareness about the environmental and social costs of unchecked tourism and the damage caused by profit-driven ventures and careless travellers — who give back little, leave waste behind and disrupt the peace of the region she calls home.
While people must be made aware of their share of responsibility, until that awareness takes root, the government must act with urgency and enforce stricter rules. It should consider developing standardised tourism guidelines and a green certification system for hotels — timely and essential in today’s environmental context. If we lose our pristine mountains to unchecked development, it won’t just be the loss of heritage; it would mean the collapse of tourism itself, including the hotel industry.
Source: Dawn News
It took a video by British vlogger George Buckley to jolt the Gilgit-Baltistan government into action and expose what the hospitality industry is doing to our mountain region. Swift action by GB’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led to the authorities partially sealing the Luxus Resort at Attabad and fining it for dumping wastewater into the lake — which the resort denies. The issue of illegal expansion remains.
It’s time to hold the government accountable and ask it some tough questions. Why are hotels able to violate regulations so easily? Why don’t the authorities intervene the moment the first spade hits the ground? Why is action taken only after massive structures are in place and only when outsiders expose violations?
In the case of Luxus — and the string of hotels lining the lakeside — why was monitoring so lax? If the sewage treatment plant was missing or malfunctioning, why did it escape the authorities’ notice? The EPA may be severely understaffed — reportedly, just 15 personnel are responsible for the entire GB region — but what about the lake magistrate, deputed by the district administration?
No lessons seem to have been drawn from the 2022 floods, when a multistorey hotel, built in violation of riverbank safety regulations, was swept away by the Swat River in Kalam. If not for timely evacuation, lives could have been lost. These aren’t just policy failures; they’re existential threats to people and the ecosystem. This wasn’t the first incident, and won’t be the last. Regulatory failure is part of the problem, but so are consumer expectations. We all crave luxury: endless hot showers, fresh linen, bottled water and climate control (air conditioning and heating) around the clock. The hotel industry is simply meeting that demand, but often at nature’s expense.
Can luxury tourism coexist with sustainability?
Can luxury tourism truly coexist with sustainability? After all, when we think of stunning landscapes and lavish comforts, eco-conscious planning isn’t the first thing on our minds. But that’s beginning to change, especially among younger travellers from the Gen Z cohort. They’re asking for more from their stays — not just comfort and style, but also environmental accountability. Governments are beginning to respond with tougher rules for energy use, emissions and the way hotels manage their waste.
A mix of customer pressure, social awareness and regulatory enforcement is forcing the global hotel industry to change — even if altruism isn’t always the motive. Many also see that going green isn’t just good for the planet; it makes for smart business too. Pakistan’s hoteliers must understand that sustainability is smart business. Changes like water-saving fixtures, leak detection, dual-flush toilets, rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient lighting can lead to major savings.
Hotels here can start small. For example, they can cut food waste by using bulk breakfast items, instead of individually packed servings, compost kitchen scraps for gardens and donate leftovers to local charities. In addition, they can cut waste by using reusable mugs, refillable bottles and water stations. Shared shuttle services to tourist sites can reduce both emissions and congestion. Adding towel racks that encourage reuse can save water and energy.
However, it must be understood that hospitality and environmental responsibility go hand in hand, not just for industry but for travellers as well. That’s where the concept of destination stewardship comes in. Karachi-based environmental scientist Dr Fozia Parveen, a native of Khyber village in Hunza’s Gojal Valley, explains this concept. “It’s about visitors taking responsibility for shared, limited natural resources, like land, water and forests, and choosing to travel more mindfully,” she says. It also means adopting eco-friendly habits and supporting hospitality models that are equitable, affordable, and centred on local communities — the ones that are gentle on the planet without sacrificing comfort or style, she explains.
A member of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders Class of 2025, Dr Parveen has consistently raised awareness about the environmental and social costs of unchecked tourism and the damage caused by profit-driven ventures and careless travellers — who give back little, leave waste behind and disrupt the peace of the region she calls home.
While people must be made aware of their share of responsibility, until that awareness takes root, the government must act with urgency and enforce stricter rules. It should consider developing standardised tourism guidelines and a green certification system for hotels — timely and essential in today’s environmental context. If we lose our pristine mountains to unchecked development, it won’t just be the loss of heritage; it would mean the collapse of tourism itself, including the hotel industry.
Source: Dawn News
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