A record number of 78 mountaineering expeditions and trekking parties comprising 685 persons have been lured by the Korakarum this summer against 57 during 2004, showing a 30 percent increase. Sources in the tourism ministry told Business Recorder on Tuesday, uncertain law and order situation in Nepal diverted many to Pakistan. Secondly, 50 percent reduction in royalty fee from $12,000 to $6,000 lured more mountaineering expeditions to Pakistan.
Sources said K-2 golden jubilee celebration and 51st anniversary of Nanga Parbat last year tremendously helped attract tourists and nature lovers to mountain ranges and glaciers in Northern Areas.
The 8125 metre Nanga Parbat known as Killer Peak has attracted 16 expeditions followed six parties by K-2 (8611 metres). Other attractions are: 8000 metres plus peaks like Broad Peak, 8047 meters, Gasherbrum-I, -II and a number of other peaks.
These groups are from France (9), Germany (6), UK (9), Switzerland (5), Japan (7), US (6), Italy (5), Spain (8), Czech Republic (4), Norwegian (2), Argentina (2), Korea (3), Austria (2) and one group each from S. Africa, Ireland, Chile, Sweden, New Zealand, China, Poland, Turkey, Georgia, Lithuania, UAE, Canada and from few other countries.
These expeditions are guided by more than 20 private tour operation companies, including Nazir Sabir expedition, Adventure Tour Pakistan, North Pakistan Treks Tours and Expedition, Nipa Travel, Hushe Treks and Tours and others.