 Official Name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Capital: Islamabad. Area: 796,096-sq. km. [Punjab 205,344; Sindh 140,914; Northwest Frontier Province 74,521; Balochistan 347,190; Federally Administered Tribal Areas 27,220 and Islamabad (Capital) 906 sq. km.] Population: 130.60 million (1998 Census) Ethnic Composition: 95% Muslims, 5% others  It's History Pakistan emerged on the world map as an independent sovereign state in August 1947, as a result of the division of the British Indian Empire. With a land area of 796,095 sq. km. Pakistan is located in South Asia. To the south is the Arabian Sea, with 1,046 km of Pakistani coastline. To Pakistan's east is India, which has a 2,912 km border with Pakistan. To its west is Iran, which has a 909 km border with Pakistan. To Pakistan's northwest lies Afghanistan, with a shared border of 2,430 km. China is towards the northeast and has a 523 km border with Pakistan. Historically, this is one of the most ancient lands known to man. Its cities flourished before Babylon was built; its people practiced the art of good living and citizenship before the celebrated ancient Greeks. The region traces its history back to at least 2,500 , when a highly developed civilization flourished in the Indus Valley. Excavations at Harappa, Mohenjodaro and Kot Diji have brought to light evidence of an advanced civilization flourishing here even in most ancient times. Around 1,500 B.C. the Aryans conquered this region and slowly pushed the Hindu inhabitants further east, towards the Ganges Valley. Later, the Persians occupied the northern regions in 5th century B.C. The Greeks came in 327 B.C., under Alexander of Macedonia, and ran through the region like a meteor. In 712 A.D. the Arabs, led by Mohammed Bin Qasim, landed somewhere near what is now Karachi, and ruled the lower half of Pakistan for two hundred years. During this time Islam took root and influenced the life, culture and traditions of the inhabitants of the region. From 10th century A.D. onwards, a systematic conquest of Indo-Pakistan by the Muslims from Central Asia began and lasted up to 18th century A.D., when the British colonized the Sub-continent and ruled for nearly 200 years (for 100 years over what is now Pakistan). The Muslim revival began towards the end of the last century when Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, a renowned leader and educationist, launched a movement for intellectual renaissance of the Indian Muslims. In 1930, the well-known poet/philosopher, Dr. Mohammed Iqbal conceived the idea of a separate state for the Muslims of the Sub-continent, and in 1940, the All-India Muslim League adopted the famous Pakistan Resolution. After seven years of untiring struggle, under the brilliant leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Pakistan emerged on the world map as a sovereign state on August 14, 1947, when the British Indian Empire was partitioned into two independent states - India and Pakistan.  It's People Father of Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah Independence Day 14 August 1947 Muslims make up over 98% of the population of Pakistan, of which roughly 80% are Sunni and 20 % are Sh'iah. About 1 % of the population is Christian with slightly more protestants than Catholics. The national language is Urdu, while the official language is English. Some of the main regional languages include Sindhi, Baluchi, Punjabi and Pushto. Pakistan has a Population of over 130 million. At present, the growth rate is 2.8 percent per annum. The major cities are Karachi (10 million),Lahore (5.5 million), Faisalabad (2 million), Rawalpindi (928,000), Islamabad (340,286). Other cities include Peshawar, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Multan and Sialkot. Major religions are Muslim (97%), Hindu (1.5%), Christian (1%) and several other minorities.  |
Pakistan Pakistan is a diverse land, of different cultures, seasons, traditions and languages. This subtle diversity can be found in every part of Pakistan. The different cities of Pakistan are booming with certain culture and idiosyncrasies, which is reflected through the lifestyle, food and the day to day routine of its people. Although every city in Pakistan is worth a trip if one exalts back packing, rustic charms, tradition and conviviality, but here is a list of some of the most famous cities in Pakistan Islamabad - The Capital City  Islamabad is the beautiful city and capital of Pakistan having population of 524,500 located at North East of its twin city Rawalpindi. This is the first city in Pakistan which is properly planned. There are all the facilities of modern life. Its perfect atmosphere and geographical position makes it more attractive for the tourists. As it is properly planned and well constructed city of the country so it is also grooming in real estate industry. It is divided into sectors for the utility of public. So life here is very enjoyable. There are several places that are worth visiting in Islamabad like Faisal Mosque, Damn-e-Koh, Shakerpariyan, Pirsuhawa and Rawal Lake. The CDA in Islamabad has renovated these places so to attract more and more attention of tourists. Recently CDA has launched several projects in the city. There are top class universities in Islamabad like Allama Iqbal Open University, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamic International University, NUST, FAST and COMSATS. Some prominent buildings include President House, Prime Minister House, Parliament House, Supreme Court of Pakistan, Convention Centre, Pak Saudi Tower, and Liaqat Gymnasium. Some Prominent Hotels are Marriot Hotel, Hotel Holiday Inn, Hotel Lasania, and Best Western Hotel. Along with all these all embassies are in Islamabad. Islamabad is well known for IT solutions. There are numerous software houses which are giving significant amount of revenue to government and paying their pivotal role in the economic growth of the country. Software houses and other IT institution along with other government and private sectors departments are giving jobs to youth of country and thus minimizing joblessness in the country. Islamabad being modern city is the trend setter in fashion and entertainment industry of the country. It’s a gate way to Murree Hills and is surrounded by Taxila museum. In short Islamabad is a city of rich society and valuable places. Lahore- The Heart of Pakistan  Lahore is the cultural capital of Pakistan. It is the melting pot of various cultures, art forms and literature and a massive culinary hub of the country. Lahore is also known as the city of gardens, for its famous gardens and lush green vegetation, it is also the capital the province of Punjab. Lahore is the second largest city of Pakistan and it is famed for being an eminent historical citywith the famous nine gates, the G.T Road, and the Lahore Fort. It has been closely associated with the legendary traditions of the past and has witnessed the history making events of the ancient and modern times. Shahi Mosque, Shahi Qila and Shalimar gardens are the excellent examples of splendid architecture of the Mughal period. Lahore has a lot to offer, including, from its popular film industry known as Lolly wood, Mughal and highly ethnical architecture to the most hospitable culinary fiestas, Lahore has a breathtaking charm and charisma that enchants every one that happens to be in Lahore. It is the city of happenings and colorful events, Festivals like Basant, Spring Flower Festival, international Theatre and Film festivals and a lot more that adds the colors of vibrancy, animation and joie de vivre to the city full of energy and life. Karachi- The City of Lights  Karachi often dubbed as the city of lights is the urban center of Pakistan with bustling industries and busy harbors. It is the largest city of Pakistan and the capital of the province of Sindh. Accommodating nearly 8 million souls from different origins, Karachi is a massive metropolis with a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Karachi has absorbed the charm and beauty of modern and conventional way of life. Besides offering the most exquisite places for dining, entertainment and shopping like Boat basin, Zamzama, Burns Road, Forum, Park Towers, Awami Markaz, Tariq Road, the city boasts one of the most attractive feature of the country, its awe-inspiring Beaches. Sandspit, Sommiani, Hawks Bay, Paradise point and Cape mount are few of the beaches that affix maritime leisure to Karachi’s lifestyle. Karachi has a state-of-the-art international airport where flights from all over the world land and take off. It has thus become the "Gateway to Pakistan". It is a sea-port which is the source of conducting international trade and business. It is considered as commercial and industrial capital of Pakistan. It has played a vital and dominant role in erecting Pakistan¹s economy on firm basis. Karachi is a Cosmopolitan city with people coming from different parts of the world. It is a mingling of old and new, east and west. Karachi enjoys great importance because the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was born here, and his mausoleum is one of the most important monument in Karachi. Peshawar- The Jewel of North  Peshawar is the capital of the province NWFP. It is an ancient city with a population of about 10 million people. A few miles away from the famous Khyber Pass, Peshawar has a common border with Afghanistan and commands routes through Khyber Pass to Kabul and Central Asia. Socially and culturally Peshawar is a conservative city, but this does not curb the locals from their showing their highly hospitable nature. The locals commonly known as the “Pthans” are famous from their hospitality and friendliness. Peshawar is famous for its handicrafts, museum, sculptures and other antiques. It is also famous for producing excellent guns and pistols that are exactly identical to those made in the foreign countries. Peshawar is famous for being the route of conquerors from the north through its Khyber Pass, namely Mahmood Ghaznavi. Offering an array of places to visit the list of the must see places include the old Walled city, Peshawar Museum, Gandhara Civilization ruins, Jamrud Fort and Buddhist Stuppas. For the ultimate shopping experience the Qissa Khawani Bazar, Khyber or the Saddar bazaar is the place to visit, for some real bargain. Offering simple yet delicious cuisine, Peshawar’s ‘Chappli Kebabs’ are a must to eat. Multan- The City of the Mystic  Multan is the capital of Multan District in the Punjab Province. It is located in the southern part of the province, and is historically a very significant city. It has a population of over about 3.83 Million, making it the sixth largest city in Pakistan. It is built just east of the Chenab River, more or less in the center of the country. Multan is famous as the 'City of Saints and Shrines'. The mausoleum of Shah Rukn-e –Alam, Sheikh Baha-ud-din Zakaria’s shrine and Shams Sabzwariis are places of true mystic and architectural delight. The city has its own charm, culture and crafts. Multan has some beautiful modern buildings such as Nishtar Medical College, University Campus, Arts Council building with and auditorium, Multan Railway Station building the famous Clock Tower building of the Multan Municipal Corporation. Religious festivals in Multan are a peculiar mixture of devotion and recreation. The Annual Urs (Event) is held in every shrine. Well known are the Urs of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, Bahauddin Zakaria, Shah Shams Sabzwari, Shah Jamal, Sher Shah and Mela Ludden Pir, etc. Faisalabad- The Industrial City  Faisalabad is the third largest city in Pakistan. It has an estimated population of almost 2 million citizens. It is an important industrial center for transport and production and is located in then west of Lahore in the Punjab province. The hub of Pakistan's textile industry, Faisalabad is the country's third biggest industrial centre. The Agriculture University, one of Asia's biggest agriculture universities, is home to researchers and students who are a valuable resource to Pakistan. The clock tower or commonly known as the “Ghanta Ghar” is more than 100 years old, and is the focal point of the city, connecting eight bazaars. Faisalabad is also called the "Manchester of Asia" for its extensive developments in textile industry. There are dozens of textile mills with other subsidiary units. Roughly, there are 512 large industrial units out of which 328 are Textile units, 92 engineering units and 92 of chemicals and food processing units. Other industries include hosiery, carpet and rugs, nawar and lace, printing and publishing and pharmaceutical products etc. There are also some 12000 house-hold industries, which include some 60000 power loom factories. The Faisalabad International Airport is located approximately 10 km from the city centre. Rawalpindi- The Twin City  Rawalpindi is a city in the Potwar Plateau near Islamabad. It has the military headquarters and also served as the nation's capital while Islamabad was being constructed in the 1960s. The city is home to many industries and factories. Rawalpindi is located in the Punjab province, to the north-west of Lahore. It is the administrative seat of the Rawalpindi District. Rawalpindi was a village in the beginning. It grew into a town and then into a city during the pre-historic Stone Age up to the present time. Rawalpindi and Islamabad are called twin cities but certainly not identical. Rawalpindi is an old city with narrow lanes and crowded bazaars; it is also the country's army headquarters. Rawalpindi has maintained its historic Muslim culture of the many invaders that passed through it such as Mahmood of Ghazni. For Shopping enthusiasts Saddar and the Raja bazaars offer a lot of bargain. The remains of the Buddhist civilization of Taxila can also be found here. The city is home to the beautiful gardens of Wah and Ayub National Park.  Quetta is the capital province of Baluchistan. It lies 5500 feet above sea level. Quetta is situated in a river valley near the border with Afghanistan. Having a population of about 650,000, Quetta is dominated by a Pashtun majority and a Balochi minority with an eclectic smidgen of smaller groups. Pushto, Balochi, Persian (Hazaragi dialect), Brahui, Sindhi, Punjabi and Urdu languages are spoken in large parts of Quetta, giving the city a very multicultural feel. The mountainous Quetta is surrounded by hills that serve as one of the best summer resorts in Pakistan. The city has exotic natural waterfalls and exquisite fruit orchards of apple, almond and cherry trees. Apart from fresh fruits, Quetta is also famous for its good quality dry fruits. The natural Hanah Lake is a picturesque spot for excursion and the cold water streams amidst the mountains are sights worth seeing. From Liaquat market and Kandhari bazaars one can buy everything from computers to traditional artifacts made from marble and stones. |
