Environmental impact of tourism in the mountainous areas of Pakistan

Abstract

<p></p> Geographical and climatic diversity are two of many features that attract international tourists to Pakistan. History, cultural diversity and religion also contribute to the country's potential as a tourist destination. The northern area, with its high altitude mountains of the Himalaya, Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges, attract a particular group of tourists: mountain trekkers and mountain climbers.

<p></p> Tourism in Pakistan is not yet a large-scale sector, which means that it plays a limited role in the economic development of the country. Its main economic role is to help solve short-term foreign exchange imbalances. Moreover, that segment which might be categorized as "adventure tourism" is only a small part of the tourism industry. It includes mountaineering and trekking in the northern areas of the country.