The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a travel advisory warning citizens about traveling to hilly/mountain or touristy areas during the current monsoon spell, directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, deeming travel unsafe and life-threatening. Moreover, the NDMA has directed all relevant departments to act seriously, including the consideration of Section 144, which may take temporary action to halt public gatherings and tourism in high-risk areas.   

Tourists from around the world flock to the beautiful mountains and valleys of northern Pakistan. However, right now, these areas are a danger zone. Heavy rain has fallen due to the monsoon season and caused areas to have flash floods and landslides which have killed hundreds and ruined important communication routes. Tourism has halted; if you plan to travel there, you should reconsider. This article provides the information, warnings, and travel advisory for safety.

Ferocious floods triggered by monsoon rains have left more than 393 dead and several missing in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK).

NDMA Declares Mountain Tourism Unsafe

Mountain tourism was “highly dangerous”, particularly in the current monsoon season, the National Disaster Management Authority gives alert. Hundreds of residents and visitors have been stranded by empty bridges and washed-away roads, as landslides closed crucial routes linking Hunza, Swat, Kaghan, Naran and Skardu. 

In Ghanche District, travel is limited because of the loss of the Somro Bridge and Saltoro Bridge. In Skardu, Baghicha Bridge was damaged and an alternate route was provided; however, the route is deemed unsafe to travel on. For Ghizer, the routes Diyan and Thale Broq to Ghizer are closed with no other alternative nor detours available for use.

For Shandur, Khaltai, Dain, and Ishkoman, roads are completely closed. All roadways are impassible for Hopper to Nagar, Gulmit to Gojal, and Gilgit to Jaglot.

In Astore, Chilm Road is also closed; but limited access available for only Deosai. Roads from Thangol Nala to Shigar and Kargil to Kharmang are completely closed to traffic.

Roads along the Karakoram Highway have experienced glacial flood and landslides effects, especially for Gulmit, Gojal and Hunza. Bridges swept away by landslides have trapped tourists unable to travel, while the trade route with China through Khunjerab Pass has been cut off.

Destruction in Buner

On Aug 16 the worst-hit areas was Buner district of KPK, where a rare cloudburst left over 100mm of rain in just one hour. The resulting flash floods did widespread damage, lifted cars and leveled houses. Search efforts are ongoing in challenging conditions and authorities fear the death toll will rise further. 

Due to this destruction, and more predictions of rain in August, the authorities now strongly restricted visitors to travel. They advised to stay away from northern Pakistan. Road cave-ins, flooding and sudden landslides are some of the continuing perils of which the NDMA advisory informs people. In peak summer travel season, local businesses that depend on tourism are suffering catastrophic losses and a number of valleys have had to close hotels, guesthouses and campsites.

Safety Guidelines for Travelers

Meanwhile, if you are one of those tourist or local who are already in the region then you need to stay informed, as well as choose safe accommodation, and avoid riverbanks. Some areas have had relief camps established but access remains severely limited because of washed-out roads.

Climate Change Concerns

This tragedy threatens lives and reflects the growing risk to climate-induced extremes in northern Pakistan. Last week, floods had already left hundreds dead and residents of communities that were still sound in distress after new surges of water submerged some of the same areas.

Travel Advisory:

  • Avoid all non-essential travel to Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Swat, Hunza, Skardu, Kaghan, and Naran until further notice.
  • Stay updated with official NDMA alerts (ndma.gov.pk).
  • Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or landslide-prone areas.
  • Tour operators are suspending itineraries; travelers should contact airlines and booking agencies for updates.
  • PDMA’s helpline number is 1700; you can call in case of any emergency.

Conclusion

By summing up, authorities warn that the coming days remain critical as more rain is forecast. Until then, northern Pakistan’s breathtaking landscapes are off-limits; not for lack of beauty, but because the danger is real and ongoing.