Capital of Pakistan: Islamabad

Population (Estimated July 2012): 190,291,129

Area: 796,096km² or 307,374mi²

Currency: Pakistani Rupee (PKR)

Official Language: Urdu and English (but 48% of the population speak Punjabi the most spoken language in Pakistan)

Political Information: Federal Presidential, Parliamentary Republic

Official Religion: Islam
(approximately 95% of the population are Muslim and 5% are Christian or Hindu).

Highest Mountain: K2 at 8,611m or 28,251ft (worlds 2^nd highest)

 

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +5:00

Counties/Provinces/States: 4 provinces, 1 territory*, and 1 capital territory**; Balochistan, Federally Administered Tribal Areas*, Islamabad Capital Territory**, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly North-West Frontier Province), Punjab, Sindh

 

Leaders: President Mamnoon HUSSAIN (since 9 September 2013) with Interim Prime Minister Nasir-UL-MULK (since 1 June 2018); Imran KHAN to be sworn in as prime minister on 11 August 2018 following his party’s majority win in the 25 July 2018 National Asembly election

 

Additional: Gained independence from British India on the 14^th of August 1947.

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Pakistan

Pakistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a country situated in South Asia. It shares borders with India to the east, Afghanistan and Iran to the west, and China to the north. The Arabian Sea lies to the south of Pakistan.

With a population exceeding 220 million people, Pakistan is the fifth most populous country globally. The capital city is Islamabad, whilst Karachi is the largest city and economic centre of the country. The official languages are Urdu and English, and the currency is the Pakistani Rupee.

Pakistan boasts a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with influences from various civilisations including the Indus Valley Civilisation, Persian Empire, Islamic Caliphates, and British colonial rule. The country is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant traditions. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the sandy beaches of the Arabian Sea in the south, Pakistan offers a wide range of natural beauty and cultural experiences for visitors.

With a history spanning thousands of years, Pakistan possesses a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, rendering it a captivating destination for travellers from across the globe.

Summary

• Pakistan is a diverse and vibrant country located in South Asia, with a rich history and culture.
• The geography of Pakistan ranges from mountains in the north to deserts in the south, with a variety of climates including arid, tropical, and temperate.
• Pakistan has a long and complex history, with influences from various empires and religions, leading to a diverse and unique culture.
• The economy of Pakistan is largely based on agriculture, textiles, and manufacturing, with a growing focus on technology and services.
• Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic, with a multi-party system and a president as the head of state, and a prime minister as the head of government.

 

Geography and Climate of Pakistan

 

Mountainous Regions

The northern region of Pakistan is dominated by the towering peaks of the Himalayas, including K2, the second highest mountain in the world.

Rivers and Deserts

The Indus River, one of the longest rivers in Asia, flows through the country, providing water for agriculture and hydroelectric power. The Thar Desert in the southeast and the coastal areas along the Arabian Sea add to the variety of terrain found in Pakistan.

Climate and Biodiversity

The climate in Pakistan varies from region to region. In the northern areas, the climate is cold and mountainous, with heavy snowfall in the winter months. The central and southern regions experience hot summers and mild winters, while the coastal areas have a warm and humid climate. Monsoon rains from July to September bring much-needed water to the agricultural lands of Pakistan. The diverse geography and climate of Pakistan contribute to its rich biodiversity and make it an attractive destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

History and Culture of Pakistan

Pakistan has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was home to one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations, the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around 2500 BCE. Over the centuries, Pakistan has been influenced by various empires and dynasties, including the Persian Empire, Maurya Empire, Mughal Empire, and British colonial rule.

In 1947, Pakistan gained independence from British India, leading to the creation of two separate nations: India and Pakistan. The culture of Pakistan is a blend of various influences, including indigenous traditions, Islamic customs, and modern trends. The people of Pakistan are known for their hospitality, colourful festivals, traditional music and dance, and exquisite handicrafts.

The national dress for men is the shalwar kameez, while women often wear vibrant and intricately embroidered clothing such as the shalwar kameez or saree. The cuisine of Pakistan is diverse and flavourful, with dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and various types of bread being popular staples.

Economy and Industry in Pakistan

Pakistan has a mixed economy with agriculture, industry, and services sectors contributing to its GDP. The country is known for its agricultural products such as wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane. The textile industry is one of the largest contributors to Pakistan’s economy, with garments and textiles being major exports.

Other industries include manufacturing, construction, pharmaceuticals, and information technology. Despite its potential for growth, Pakistan faces challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inflation. The government has been working on economic reforms to attract foreign investment and improve infrastructure.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a major development project that aims to improve transportation networks, energy infrastructure, and industrial cooperation between China and Pakistan. With its strategic location and young population, Pakistan has the potential to become a key player in regional trade and investment.

Politics and Government in Pakistan

Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic with a multi-party system. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Parliament consists of two houses: the National Assembly and the Senate.

The judiciary is independent and plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law. The political landscape in Pakistan has been marked by periods of military rule and civilian governments. The country has faced challenges such as corruption, terrorism, and political instability.

However, there have been efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and promote good governance. The 2018 general elections saw a peaceful transfer of power from one civilian government to another for the second time in Pakistan’s history, signalling progress towards a more stable political environment.

Tourism and Attractions in Pakistan

Exploring the Ancient Past

The ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a glimpse into the Indus Valley Civilisation with its well-planned streets and advanced drainage system. Lahore, the cultural capital of Pakistan, is known for its Mughal-era architecture including the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort.

Natural Beauty and Adventure

The northern areas of Pakistan are popular for their stunning landscapes, including lush valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Adventure enthusiasts can explore trekking routes in the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges or go white-water rafting in the rivers of northern Pakistan. The coastal areas offer opportunities for water sports such as snorkelling and scuba diving.

Immersing in Local Culture

The diverse culture of Pakistan can be experienced through traditional festivals such as Basant (kite-flying festival) and Urs (Sufi shrine festivals). With its warm hospitality and breathtaking scenery, Pakistan has great potential to become a top tourist destination in South Asia.

Challenges and Opportunities in Pakistan

Pakistan faces various challenges that hinder its development and progress. These include poverty, illiteracy, healthcare issues, water scarcity, energy shortages, and security concerns. However, there are also opportunities for growth and improvement in key areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, renewable energy sources, and regional cooperation.

The government has been working on initiatives to address these challenges through policies aimed at poverty alleviation, education reform, healthcare access, water management projects, energy sector reforms, and counter-terrorism efforts. International partnerships with countries such as China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have also provided opportunities for investment and development projects in Pakistan. In conclusion, Pakistan is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and potential for growth.

Despite facing challenges in various sectors, there are opportunities for progress through economic reforms, political stability, tourism development, and international cooperation. With its strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, Pakistan has the potential to become a key player in regional trade and investment. As the country continues to work towards addressing its challenges and seizing opportunities for growth, it can emerge as a dynamic and thriving nation on the global stage.

One interesting article related to Pakistan is about the country’s efforts to combat climate change. According to a recent study, Pakistan is among the top ten countries most affected by climate change. The article discusses the impact of rising temperatures and extreme weather events on the country’s agriculture and economy, as well as the steps being taken to address these challenges. To learn more about Pakistan’s climate change efforts, you can read the full article here.

FAQs

 

What is the population of Pakistan?

The population of Pakistan is approximately 220 million, making it the 5th most populous country in the world.

What is the capital city of Pakistan?

The capital city of Pakistan is Islamabad.

What is the official language of Pakistan?

The official language of Pakistan is Urdu, while English is also widely used for official and business purposes.

What is the currency of Pakistan?

The currency of Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR).

What are the major religions in Pakistan?

The major religion in Pakistan is Islam, with the majority of the population being Muslim. There are also small minorities of Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs.

What are the major industries in Pakistan?

The major industries in Pakistan include textiles, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Agriculture is a significant sector, with the country being a major producer of cotton, wheat, and rice.

What is the climate like in Pakistan?

Pakistan has a varied climate, with hot summers and cold winters in most parts of the country. The northern areas experience snowfall in winter, while the southern areas have a hot and dry climate.

What are the major tourist attractions in Pakistan?

Pakistan is home to several tourist attractions, including the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, the Karakoram Highway, and the beautiful Hunza Valley. The country also offers opportunities for trekking and mountaineering in the northern areas.