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The Amazing Pakistan

VisionHawk

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Welcome To Pakistan :PakistanFlag:
From the mighty stretches of the Karakorams in the North to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a land of high adventure and nature. Trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, wild boar hunting, mountain and desert jeep safaris, camel and yak safaris, trout fishing and bird watching, are a few activities, which entice the adventure and nature lovers to Pakistan.

:: Pakistan - The Land of Adventure and Nature
From the mighty stretches of the Karakorams in the North to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a land of high adventure and nature. Trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, wild boar hunting, mountain and desert jeep safaris, camel and yak safaris, trout fishing and bird watching, are a few activities, which entice the adventure and nature lovers to Pakistan.

Pakistan is endowed with a rich and varied flora and fauna. High Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush ranges with their alpine meadows and permanent snow line, coniferous forests down the sub-mountain scrub, the vast Indus plain merging into the great desert, the coast line and wetlands, all offer a remarkably rich variety of vegetation and associated wildlife including avifauna, both endemic and migratory. Ten of 18 mammalian orders are represented in Pakistan with species ranging from the world's smallest surviving mammals, the Mediterranean Pigmy Shrew, to the largest mammal ever known; the blue whale.

:: Diverse Culture and Ancient Civilizations
Situated in the heart of the South Asian sub-continent, it is a country with its own fascinating history and cultural heritage. Pakistan was the site for one of the world's earliest human settlements, the great prehistoric Indus Valley Civilization, the crucible of ancient empires, religions and cultures. Pakistan traces its history back to 2,500 years B.C. when a highly developed civilization flourished in the Indus Valley. Excavations at Harappa, Moenjodaro, Kot Diji and Mehr Garh have brought to light, the evidence of an advanced civilization existing even in more ancient times.

:: Landscape, Location and Geography
The landscape of Pakistan ranges from lofty mountains in the north, the Karakoram and the Himalayas, through dissected plateaus to the rich alluvial plains of the Punjab. Then follows desolate barrenness of Balochistan and the hot dry deserts of Sindh blending into miles and miles of golden beaches of Mekran coast.

Pakistan is situated between latitude 24 and 37 degrees North and longitude 62 and 75 degrees East. The country borders Iran on the West, India on the East, Afghanistan in the North-West, China in the North and the Arabian Sea in the South. The great mountain ranges of the Himalayas, the Karakoram and the Hindukush form Pakistan's northern highlands of North West Frontier Province and the Northern Area; Punjab province is a flat, alluvial plain with five major rivers dominating the upper region eventually joining the Indus River flowing south to the Arabian Sea; Sindh is bounded on the east by the Thar Desert and the Rann of Kutch and on the west by the Kirthar range; the Balochistan Plateau is an arid tableland, encircled by dry mountains. Its total area is 803,940 Sq.Km and total land area is 778,720 Sq.Km. (including FATA and FANA).

:: Unique Mountains, Valleys and Glaciers
Northern areas of Pakistan, spread over 72,496 sq.Km. are fascinating as its southern region. Amidst towering snow-clad peaks with heights varying from 1000 m to over 8000 meter, the valleys of Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu recall Shangri-La. The cultural patterns in this region are as interesting as its topography. The people with typical costumes, folk dances, music and sports like polo and buzkashi provide the traveler an unforgettable experience. Nowhere in the world there is such a great concentration of high mountains, peaks, glaciers and passes except Pakistan. Of the 14 over 8000 peaks on earth, 4 occupy an amphitheater at the head of Baltoro glacier in the Karakoram range. These are: K-2 (8611 m, world second highest), Broad Peak (8047m), Gasherbrum I (8068m) and Gasherbrum II (8035m). There is yet another which is equally great, that is, Nanga Parbat (8126m) at the western most end of the Himalayas. In addition to that, there are 68 peaks over 7000 m and hundreds which are over 6000 m. The Northern Pakistan has some of the longest glaciers outside Polar region; Siachen (72 km), Hispar (61 km.), Biafo (60 km.), Baltoro (60 km.), Batura (64 km.), Yenguta (35 km.), Chiantar (34 km.), Trich (29 km.) and Atrak (28 km.). The lower Himalayan valleys of Swat, Kaghan and Chitral in the Hindukush range equally share the beauty and diverse culture of the Northern Pakistan.
:: Indus Valley Civilization:
The Indus Valley Civilization was at its peak from the 3rd till the middle of the 2nd millennium BC Discovered in 1922, Moenjodaro was once a metropolis of great importance, forming part of the Indus Valley Civilization together with Harrappa (discovered in 1923), Kot Diji and recently discovered in Mehr Garh (Balochistan). Moenjodaro is considered as one of the most spectacular ancient cities of the world. It had mud and baked bricks' buildings, an elaborate covered drainage system, a large state granary, a spacious pillared hall, a College of Priests, a palace and a citadel. Harrappa, another major city of the Indus Valley Civilization, was surrounded by a massive brick wall fortification. Other features and plan of the city were similar to that of Moenjodaro. The Kot Diji culture is marked by well-made pottery and houses built of mud-bricks on stone foundations.

:: Gandhara Heritage
Gandhara remains had once been the hallowed center of Buddhism, the cradle of the world famous Gandhara sculpture, culture and learning. The archaeological remains found in Taxila, Peshawar, Charsadda, Takht Bhai, Swat Valley, and rock carving &* inscriptions along the ancient Silk Route (Karakoram Highway) has well recorded the history of Gandhara. Lying in Haro River valley,. Taxila, the main center of Gandhara, is over 3,000 years old as it had attracted the attention of the great conqueror, Alexander in 327 BC, when it was a province of the powerful Achaemenian Empire. It later came under the Maurian dynasty and reached a remarkable matured level of development under the great Ashoka. Then appeared the Indo-Greek descendants of Alexander's warriors and finally came the most creative period of Gandhara. The Kushan dynasty was established in about 50 A.D. during the next 20 years, Taxila, Peshawar and Swat became a renowned center of learning, philosophy, art and trade. Pilgrims and travelers were attracted to Gandhara from as far as China and Greece. In 5th century AD, the White Huns snuffed out the last of the successive civilizations that held unbroken sway in this region for several centuries.

:: Mughal And Early Muslim Heritage
Pakistan is a treasure-house of Muslim architecture. Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan is situated along the bank of Ravi River. The city has witnessed rise and fall of many dynasties like Gaznavis (1021-1186), Ghoris (1186-1202) and Slaves (1206-1524) before arrival of the Mughals. The city was conquered by Babur of Ferghana (now in Uzbekistan), the founder of the Mughal dynasty (1524-1764). All the important monuments like the Royal Fort, Badshahi Mosque. Wazir Khan's Mosque, Tombs of Jehangir, Asaf Khan, Noor Jehan, Anarkali, the Shalimar Gardens and Hiran Minar etc., were constructed during this period. On the other hand, the shrines, mosques and forts located in and around Multan and Bahawalpur are master pieces of Muslim architecture. Some important buildings are; Forts at Multan and Derawar (Bahawalpur), shrines of Shaikh Bahauddin Zakaria, Shah Rukan-e-Alam, Hazrat Shams Tabrezi at Multan and Tomb of Bib Jiwandi at Uchh Sharif near Bahawalpur.

:: The Silk Route
For centuries, it remained the main trading route between the South Asia and the Central Asia. After the completion of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) in 1978 along the same route, joining Pakistan with Chinese Muslim autonomous region of Xinjiang, the ancient trade link has been revived. The KKH has provided a great opportunity for international travellers to explore the un-spoilt natural beauty, unique culture and ancient traditions of Northern Pakistan together with other Silk Road countries like China, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

:: Valleys of the Himalaya and the Hindukush
The Murree Hills and the Gallies, 55 km from Islamabad, at an altitude of 2,286 m are the most popular summer resorts in Pakistan. With a perfect Himalayan atmosphere and equipped with all modern facilities like good communication network, resort hotels, golf course and chair-lift/cable cars, Murree and Gallies are a wonderful retreat from the hot weather of the plains in summer. A holiday in Kaghan Valley, the Himalayan hide-away in the North West Frontier Province,(NWFP) is an un-forgettable experience. Its peaks, dales, lakes, water-falls, streams and glaciers are still in an unbelievable pristine state. The valley extends for 155 km rising from an elevation of 2,134 m to its highest point, the Babusar Pass, at 4,173 m.

The lush green valley of Swat, has a rich historical past. This is “Udyana” (the garden) of ancient Hindu epics; the land of enthralling beauty, where Alexander of Mecedonia fought and won some of his major battles. This is the “valley of the hanging chairs” as described by famous Chinese pilgrims, Fa-Hien and Hsuan Tsang in the 5th and 7th centuries.
Azad Kashmir rivals the Kaghan and Swat valleys in natural beauty. It extends from the plains of Mirpur at the northern edges of the Punjab through the outlyng foothills of the Haimalayas, to the mountains in the north at 6,000 meters above sea level. It is blessed with three major rivers, the Jehlum, the Neelum and the Poonch. Chitral valley is like a crown on the Hindukush mountains with its high peaks, green pastures and unique culture, Chitral has attracted mountaineers, trekkers, naturalists and anthropologists alike. One of the major attractions of Chitral are the Kalash valleys - the home of the Kalash “wearers of the black robes”, a primitive pagan tribe.

:: FESTIVALS AND HOLIDAYS
Pakistan’s calendar features a great many Muslim religious festivals. Others are in memory of National Heroes or to commemorate political events in the nation’s recent history. Muslim festivals are celebrated according to Muslim (Lunar) Calendar and may occur some 10 days earlier each successive Christian Year. There are several folk festivals held regularly in every part of the country.

And much more ..................... :PakistanFlag:
 
:: Shandur Polo Festival (7-9 July)
A regular traditional polo tournament is held every year on the highest polo ground of the world. The Shandur Pass (Chitral district), with allied activites including folk music, folk dances and other competitions.

:: Independence Day (August 14) *
Celebration of 57th Year of Independence from British Rule

:: Death Anniversary of Quaid-i-Azam (September 11) *
Death Anniversary of the Founder of Islamic Republic of Pakistan Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

:: Christmas / Birth Day of Quaid-e-Azam *
The Birth day of the Holy Prophet "Christ" and as a national day for Pakistanis due to Birth Day of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

::Defence Day of Pakistan 6 September
This day marks the sacrifices of the brave jawans they made for Pakistan when the enemy attacked Pakistan at night without any daclarion of War on 6 september 1965 Pak amred forces defeneded every inch of the motherland and repulsed every attack and soon the fighting was fought within the enemy area . This day urges us to remember the martayers of armed forces who laid their life for Pakistan

** Subject to appearnce of the moon
* Holiday

And much more......... :clapping:
 
:: Pakistan as a Tourist Destination
Pakistan is a special interest destination. Its main attractions include adventure tourism in the Northern Areas, cultural and archaeological tourism in Taxila, Moenjodaro, Harrappa, and early Muslim and Mughal heritage in Multan, Lahore, Thatta, Peshawar, Swat. Besides this, birds watching Jeep safaris, desert safaris, trekking and mountaineering are readily available tourist specialized products.

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :PakistanFlag: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
 
Profile of Pakistan


Introducing Pakistan

Pakistan displays some of Asia’s most magnificent landscapes as it stretches from the Arabian Sea, its southern border, to some of the world’s most spectacular mountain ranges in the north. Pakistan is also home to sites that date back to word’s earliest settlements rivaling those of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.

Location

Located in South Asia, Pakistan shares an eastern border with India and a north-eastern border with China. Iran makes up the country’s south-west border, and Afghanistan runes along its western and northern edge. The Arabian Sea is Pakistan’s southern boundary with 1,064 km of coastline.

The country has a total area of 796,095 sq km(excluding kashmir) and is nearly four times the size of the United Kingdom. From Gwadar Bay in it’s south-eastern corner, the country extends more than 1,800 km to the Khunjerab Pass on China’s border.
 
:) And lets not forget the spicy food of Pakistan which it is also famous 4 wat all of u think :)
 
Official Name Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Father of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah (1876-1948)
National Poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal (1877-1938)
Head of the State General Pervez Musharraf, President
Head of Government Shaukat Aziz , Prime Minister
Capital Islamabad

Area

Total 796,095 Sq. km.
Punjab 205,344 Sq. km.
Sindh 140,914 Sq. km.
North West Frontier Province 74,521 Sq. km.
Balochistan 347,190 Sq. km.
Federally Administered Tribal Areas 27,220 Sq. km.
Islamabad (Capital) 906 Sq. km.

Population 149.03 million
Administrative Setup Pakistan is divided into four provinces viz., North West Frontier Province (NWFP), Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan. The tribal belt adjoining NWFP is managed by the Federal Government and is named FATA i.e., Federally Administered Tribal Areas. Azad Kashmir and Northern Areas have their own respective political and administrative machinery, yet certain of their subjects are taken care of by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Northern Areas. Provinces of Pakistan are further divided into Divisions and Districts

Administrative Setup
Divisions Districts
NWFP 7 24
Punjab 8 34
Sindh 5 21
Balochistan 6 22

While FATA consist of 13 Areas/Agencies and Azad Kashmir and Northern Areas have 7 and 5 Districts respectively.

Religion 95% Muslims, 5% others.
Annual Per capita income Rs. 28,933 (US $ 492 approximately)
GDP 5.1%
Currency Pak. Rupee.
Imports Industrial equipment, chemicals, vehicles, steel, iron ore, petroleum, edible oil, pulses, tea.
Exports Cotton, textile goods, rice, leather items carpets, sports goods, handi-crafts, fish and fish prep. and fruit
Languages Urdu (National) and English (Official)
Literacy rate 51.6% :PakistanFlag:
Government Parliamentary form

Parliament

Parliament consists of two Houses i.e., the Senate (Upper House) and the National Assembly (Lower House).

The Senate is a permanent legislative body and symbolises a process of continuity in the national affairs. It consists of 100 members. The four Provincial Assemblies, Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Federal Capital form its electoral college.

The National Assembly has a total membership of 342 elected through adult suffrage (272 general seats, 60 women seats and 10 non-Muslim seats).

Pakistan National
Flag Dark green with a white vertical bar, a white crescent and a five-pointed star in the middle. The Flag symbolises Pakistan's profound commitment to Islam, the Islamic world and the rights of religious miniorities.

National Anthem
Approved in June, 1954
Verses Composed by: Abdul Asar Hafeez Jullundhri
Tune Composed by: Ahmed G. Chagla
Duration: 80 seconds

State Emblem
The State Emblem consists of:
1. The crescent and star which are symbols of Islam
2. The shield in the centre shows four major crops
3. Wreath surrounding the shield represents cultural heritage and
4. Scroll contains Quaid's motto: Unity Faith, Discipline

Pakistan's Official Map Drawn by Mian Mahmood Alam Suhrawardy (1920-1999)

National Flower Jasmine.
National Tree Deodar (Cedrus Deodara).
National Animal Markhor.
National Bird Chakor (Red-legged partridge)

Flora Pine, Oak, Poplar, Deodar, Maple, Mulberry

Fauna The Pheasant, Leopard, Deer, Ibex, Chinkara, Black buck, Neelgai, Markhor, Marco-Polo sheep, Green turtles, River & Sea fish, Crocodile, Waterfowls

Popular games Cricket, Hockey, Football, Squash.

Tourist's resorts Murree, Quetta, Hunza, Ziarat, Swat, Kaghan, Chitral and Gilgit

Archaeological sites
Moenjo Daro, Harappa, Taxila, Kot Diji, Mehr Garh, Takht Bhai.

Major Cities
Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Multan and Sialkot
Major Crops
Cotton, Wheat, Rice and Sugarcane

Agricultural Growth Rate
4.15% in 2002-03
Total cropped area
22.0 million hectares

Industry

Textiles, Cement, Fertiliser, Steel, Sugar, Electric Goods, Shipbuilding

Energy

Major sources Electricity (Hydel, Thermal, Nuclear) Oil, Coal, and Liquid Petroleum Gas
Power Generating Capacity 18,062 MW

Health

Hospitals 947
Dispensaries 4,800
Basic Health Units (BHUs) 4,820
Maternity & Child Health Centres 1,084
Rural Health Centres (RHCs) 581
Tuberculosis (TB) Centres 357
Hospital Beds 82,844
Doctors (registered) 101,635
Dentists (registered) 5,068
Nurses (registered 44,520
Paramedics 22,714
Lady Health Workers 6,397

Education

Primary Schools 164,200
Middle Schools 19,100
High Schools 12,900
Arts & Science Colleges 925
Professional Colleges 374
Universities Public Sector (including one Women University) 29
Private Sector 10

Transport & Communication

Total length of roads 251,845 km
Pakistan Railway network 7,791 km
Railway stations 781
Pakistan International Airlines Covers 33 international and 21 domestic stations with a fleet of 44 planes.
Major Airports 8 (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Multan, Faisalabad and Gwadar)

Seaports

International 2 (Karachi and Bin Qasim.) (GawadarAlmost completed)
Fish Harbours-Cum-Mini Ports 3 (Minora, Gawadar, and Keti Bandar)

Communications

Post Offices 12,267
Telephone connections 4,589,000
Public Call Offices 1,14,527
Telegraph offices 328
Internet Connections 1.9 million

Employment

Total Labour force 42.38 million
Employed Labour Force 39.41 million
Agriculture Sector 18.91 million
Manufacturing & Mining sector 4.51 million
Construction 2.25 million
Trade 5.27 million
Transport 1.97 million
Finance, Community & Social Services 5.90 million
Others 5.87 million

Media
Print Media (In accordance with Central Media List)
Dailies 414
Weeklies 392
Fortnightlies 50
Monthlies 259
Annually 01
Quarterly 03



News Agencies
Official APP

Private PPI, NNI, On Line and Sana.



Electronic Media

TV Centres Five TV centres at Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and Karachi covering 88.58% population and 29 re-broadcasting stations.
Pakistan Television 4 channels (PTV-I, PTV-II (PTV World), PTV-III & PTV-IV)
Registered TV sets 3,604,000
Radio Stations Public: Total 25, Home services in 19 languages. External Services cover 81 countries in 15 languages
Private: Radio stations 3, TV transmitter channels 3
Cable Operators 900

Banks

Central Bank State Bank of Pakistan
Other Banks National Bank of Pakistan
Habib Bank Ltd.
United Bankn Ltd.
Muslim Commercial Bank Ltd.
Allied Bank of Pakistan Ltd.
First Woman Bank
Mehran Bank
The Bank of Punjab
Bank of Khyber
Specialized Banks Agricultural Development Bank of Pakistan
Federal Bank for Co-operatives
Industrial Development Bank of Pakistan
The Punjab Provincial Co-operative Bank

Famous Mountain Peaks

K-2 (Mt. Godwin Austin) 28,250 ft./8611 m (2nd in World)
Nanga Parbat 26,660 ft./8126 m (8th in World)
Gasherbrum-I 26,470 ft./8068 m (11th in World)

Famous Mountain Passes

The Khyber Pass NWFP
The Kurram Pass FATA
The Tochi Pass FATA
The Gomal Pass NWFP
The Bolan Pass Balochistan
The Lowari Pass Chitral (NWFP)
The Khunjrab Pass Northern Areas

Rivers

The Indus 2,896 km
Jhelum 825 km
Chenab 1,242 km
Ravi 901 km
Sutlej 1,551 km
Beas (tributary of Sutlej) 398 km

Famous Glaciers
Siachin 75 km
Batura 55 km
Baltoro 65 km

Deserts
Thar Sindh
Cholistan Punjab
Thal Punjab

Lakes
Manchar Sindh
Keenjar Sindh
Hanna Balochistan
Saif-ul-Maluk NWFP
Satpara Northern Areas
Kachura Northern Areas

Major Dams
Mangla Dam Punjab
Tarbela Dam NWFP
Warsak Dam NWFP
 
WEB Sites About Pakistan

:PakistanFlag: :bounce: :bounce:

Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV)
- http://www.ptv.com.pk/


Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
- http://www.pakistan.gov.pk/law-division/pu...onstitution.pdf [PDF]


Pakistan International Airline (PIA)
- http://www.piac.com.pk/


Government of Pakistan News Portal
- http://www.infopak.gov.pk/


Economy of Pakistan
- http://www.finance.gov.pk/


Hotels and Travel in Pakistan
- http://www.tourism.gov.pk/


Pakistan travel guide
- http://www.pakistan.gov.pk/tourism-division/index.jsp


History of Pakistan
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/hist...of_pakistan.htm


Cultural Heritage
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/culture.heri.html


Festivals
- http://www.tourism.gov.pk/events.asp


National Assembly
- http://www.na.gov.pk/intro.htm


Museums and Galleries
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/museums.htm


Landscape
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/View-JPG%20pics/landscape-1.htm


Map of Pakistan
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/map_of_Pakistan.htm


Tourism
- http://www.tourism.gov.pk/


Country Profile
- http://www.infopak.gov.pk/public/country_profile_index.htm


Sports
- http://www.sports.gov.pk/index1.htm


Economy
- http://www.finance.gov.pk/


Fact Sheets
- http://www.infopak.gov.pk/public/country_profile_index.htm


Traditions/Culture
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/cult...n_tridition.htm


Indus civilization
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/indus.html


Gandhara Civilization
- http://www.heritage.gov.pk/html_Pages/gandhara.html
 
Quad e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnahs Extract from Address to Public Servants at Government House Peshawar on 14 April, 1948.

"You should not be influenced by any political pressure, by any party or individual. If you want to raise the prestige and greatness of Pakistan, do you duty as servants to the people and the Stat, fearlessly and honestly. Governments are formed, governments are defeated, Prime Ministers come and go. Ministers come and go, but you stay on, and therefore, there is a very great responsibility placed on your shoulders. Whichever Government is formed according to the constitution you duty is not only to serve loyally and faithfully, but, at the same time, fearlessly maintaining your high reputation, your prestige, your honour and the integrity of your service". :PakistanFlag:
 
but thats only about the indus valley region?? what about the rest of pakistan
"Chino arab humara, hindustaan humara, muslim hein hum, sara jahan humara"
 
but thats only about the indus valley region?? what about the rest of pakistan

i hav posted abt pak tourist resorts and other historical areas too

:: Pakistan - The Land of Adventure and Nature
From the mighty stretches of the Karakorams in the North to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a land of high adventure and nature. Trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, wild boar hunting, mountain and desert jeep safaris, camel and yak safaris, trout fishing and bird watching, are a few activities, which entice the adventure and nature lovers to Pakistan.

Pakistan is endowed with a rich and varied flora and fauna. High Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush ranges with their alpine meadows and permanent snow line, coniferous forests down the sub-mountain scrub, the vast Indus plain merging into the great desert, the coast line and wetlands, all offer a remarkably rich variety of vegetation and associated wildlife including avifauna, both endemic and migratory. Ten of 18 mammalian orders are represented in Pakistan with species ranging from the world's smallest surviving mammals, the Mediterranean Pigmy Shrew, to the largest mammal ever known; the blue whale.

:: Diverse Culture and Ancient Civilizations
Situated in the heart of the South Asian sub-continent, it is a country with its own fascinating history and cultural heritage. Pakistan was the site for one of the world's earliest human settlements, the great prehistoric Indus Valley Civilization, the crucible of ancient empires, religions and cultures. Pakistan traces its history back to 2,500 years B.C. when a highly developed civilization flourished in the Indus Valley. Excavations at Harappa, Moenjodaro, Kot Diji and Mehr Garh have brought to light, the evidence of an advanced civilization existing even in more ancient times.

:: Landscape, Location and Geography
The landscape of Pakistan ranges from lofty mountains in the north, the Karakoram and the Himalayas, through dissected plateaus to the rich alluvial plains of the Punjab. Then follows desolate barrenness of Balochistan and the hot dry deserts of Sindh blending into miles and miles of golden beaches of Mekran coast.

Pakistan is situated between latitude 24 and 37 degrees North and longitude 62 and 75 degrees East. The country borders Iran on the West, India on the East, Afghanistan in the North-West, China in the North and the Arabian Sea in the South. The great mountain ranges of the Himalayas, the Karakoram and the Hindukush form Pakistan's northern highlands of North West Frontier Province and the Northern Area; Punjab province is a flat, alluvial plain with five major rivers dominating the upper region eventually joining the Indus River flowing south to the Arabian Sea; Sindh is bounded on the east by the Thar Desert and the Rann of Kutch and on the west by the Kirthar range; the Balochistan Plateau is an arid tableland, encircled by dry mountains. Its total area is 803,940 Sq.Km and total land area is 778,720 Sq.Km. (including FATA and FANA).

:: Unique Mountains, Valleys and Glaciers :bunny:
Northern areas of Pakistan, spread over 72,496 sq.Km. are fascinating as its southern region. Amidst towering snow-clad peaks with heights varying from 1000 m to over 8000 meter, the valleys of Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu recall Shangri-La. The cultural patterns in this region are as interesting as its topography. The people with typical costumes, folk dances, music and sports like polo and buzkashi provide the traveler an unforgettable experience. Nowhere in the world there is such a great concentration of high mountains, peaks, glaciers and passes except Pakistan. Of the 14 over 8000 peaks on earth, 4 occupy an amphitheater at the head of Baltoro glacier in the Karakoram range. These are: K-2 (8611 m, world second highest), Broad Peak (8047m), Gasherbrum I (8068m) and Gasherbrum II (8035m). There is yet another which is equally great, that is, Nanga Parbat (8126m) at the western most end of the Himalayas. In addition to that, there are 68 peaks over 7000 m and hundreds which are over 6000 m. The Northern Pakistan has some of the longest glaciers outside Polar region; Siachen (72 km), Hispar (61 km.), Biafo (60 km.), Baltoro (60 km.), Batura (64 km.), Yenguta (35 km.), Chiantar (34 km.), Trich (29 km.) and Atrak (28 km.). The lower Himalayan valleys of Swat, Kaghan and Chitral in the Hindukush range equally share the beauty and diverse culture of the Northern Pakistan.
:: Indus Valley Civilization:
The Indus Valley Civilization was at its peak from the 3rd till the middle of the 2nd millennium BC Discovered in 1922, Moenjodaro was once a metropolis of great importance, forming part of the Indus Valley Civilization together with Harrappa (discovered in 1923), Kot Diji and recently discovered in Mehr Garh (Balochistan). Moenjodaro is considered as one of the most spectacular ancient cities of the world. It had mud and baked bricks' buildings, an elaborate covered drainage system, a large state granary, a spacious pillared hall, a College of Priests, a palace and a citadel. Harrappa, another major city of the Indus Valley Civilization, was surrounded by a massive brick wall fortification. Other features and plan of the city were similar to that of Moenjodaro. The Kot Diji culture is marked by well-made pottery and houses built of mud-bricks on stone foundations.

:: Gandhara Heritage
Gandhara remains had once been the hallowed center of Buddhism, the cradle of the world famous Gandhara sculpture, culture and learning. The archaeological remains found in Taxila, Peshawar, Charsadda, Takht Bhai, Swat Valley, and rock carving &* inscriptions along the ancient Silk Route (Karakoram Highway) has well recorded the history of Gandhara. Lying in Haro River valley,. Taxila, the main center of Gandhara, is over 3,000 years old as it had attracted the attention of the great conqueror, Alexander in 327 BC, when it was a province of the powerful Achaemenian Empire. It later came under the Maurian dynasty and reached a remarkable matured level of development under the great Ashoka. Then appeared the Indo-Greek descendants of Alexander's warriors and finally came the most creative period of Gandhara. The Kushan dynasty was established in about 50 A.D. during the next 20 years, Taxila, Peshawar and Swat became a renowned center of learning, philosophy, art and trade. Pilgrims and travelers were attracted to Gandhara from as far as China and Greece. In 5th century AD, the White Huns snuffed out the last of the successive civilizations that held unbroken sway in this region for several centuries.

:: Mughal And Early Muslim Heritage
Pakistan is a treasure-house of Muslim architecture. Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan is situated along the bank of Ravi River. The city has witnessed rise and fall of many dynasties like Gaznavis (1021-1186), Ghoris (1186-1202) and Slaves (1206-1524) before arrival of the Mughals. The city was conquered by Babur of Ferghana (now in Uzbekistan), the founder of the Mughal dynasty (1524-1764). All the important monuments like the Royal Fort, Badshahi Mosque. Wazir Khan's Mosque, Tombs of Jehangir, Asaf Khan, Noor Jehan, Anarkali, the Shalimar Gardens and Hiran Minar etc., were constructed during this period. On the other hand, the shrines, mosques and forts located in and around Multan and Bahawalpur are master pieces of Muslim architecture. Some important buildings are; Forts at Multan and Derawar (Bahawalpur), shrines of Shaikh Bahauddin Zakaria, Shah Rukan-e-Alam, Hazrat Shams Tabrezi at Multan and Tomb of Bib Jiwandi at Uchh Sharif near Bahawalpur.

:: The Silk Route :PakistanFlag:
For centuries, it remained the main trading route between the South Asia and the Central Asia. After the completion of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) in 1978 along the same route, joining Pakistan with Chinese Muslim autonomous region of Xinjiang, the ancient trade link has been revived. The KKH has provided a great opportunity for international travellers to explore the un-spoilt natural beauty, unique culture and ancient traditions of Northern Pakistan together with other Silk Road countries like China, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

:: Valleys of the Himalaya and the Hindukush :PakistanFlag:
The Murree Hills and the Gallies, 55 km from Islamabad, at an altitude of 2,286 m are the most popular summer resorts in Pakistan. With a perfect Himalayan atmosphere and equipped with all modern facilities like good communication network, resort hotels, golf course and chair-lift/cable cars, Murree and Gallies are a wonderful retreat from the hot weather of the plains in summer. A holiday in Kaghan Valley, the Himalayan hide-away in the North West Frontier Province,(NWFP) is an un-forgettable experience. Its peaks, dales, lakes, water-falls, streams and glaciers are still in an unbelievable pristine state. The valley extends for 155 km rising from an elevation of 2,134 m to its highest point, the Babusar Pass, at 4,173 m.

The lush green valley of Swat, has a rich historical past. This is “Udyana” (the garden) of ancient Hindu epics; the land of enthralling beauty, where Alexander of Mecedonia fought and won some of his major battles. This is the “valley of the hanging chairs” as described by famous Chinese pilgrims, Fa-Hien and Hsuan Tsang in the 5th and 7th centuries.
Azad Kashmir rivals the Kaghan and Swat valleys in natural beauty. It extends from the plains of Mirpur at the northern edges of the Punjab through the outlyng foothills of the Haimalayas, to the mountains in the north at 6,000 meters above sea level. It is blessed with three major rivers, the Jehlum, the Neelum and the Poonch. Chitral valley is like a crown on the Hindukush mountains with its high peaks, green pastures and unique culture, Chitral has attracted mountaineers, trekkers, naturalists and anthropologists alike. One of the major attractions of Chitral are the Kalash valleys - the home of the Kalash “wearers of the black robes”, a primitive pagan tribe.
 
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Islamabad the captial of Pakistan
 
i know but pakistan is WAY bigger then that..that is only some country claiming to be pakistan...dreams of which have faded over time and turned itno a miniscule litle 5 state country..

PAK is TAAN is way bigger:D
 
Two foreign tourist views about Pakistan

Peter BAradley, Feb 2004

The most beautiful country I have ever visited and the friendliest of people. Flew BA to Islamabad and I travelled to Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Muree, Lahore and Peshawar. Really good hotels and guest houses everywhere that make you feel at home and they always do thier very best to oblige. The Pashtun (pathan, pakhtun, pashtoon) people are fiercely proud but fiercely hospitable too - I have never drunk so much green tea in my life and the barbeque food is wonderful. I met Afghan people too - also Pashtun - in Peshawar also very friendly and kind. Go see for yourself - it may not be France or Florida but if thats what you prefer then you are seriously missing out on a cultural and travel experience. Go Pakistan :) Tour Operator: None - I did it myself

David fulton, Nov 2004

Perhaps the most natural beautifull country of the world, Lovely Sites, Friendly People Tour Operator: Travel Up

:PakistanFlag: :PakistanFlag: :PakistanFlag: :PakistanFlag: :thumbsup:
 
Some pictures of the beautiful sites of Pakistan :PakistanFlag:


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NATIONAL ANTHEM

The National Anthem of Pakistan approved by the Government in August 1954, is a harmonious rendering of a three-stanza composition with a tune based on eastern music but arranged in such a manner that it can be easily played by foreign bands.
The Anthem is evocative in spirit, extolling Pakistan as the centre of faith and freedom, a land of beauty and strength drawn from the people and the country. The words touch upon the various facets of national life, with an invocation for integrity o Pakistan.

The Verses of the Anthem have been composed by a renowned poet of Pakistan, Abul Asar Hafeez Jullundhri; while the tune has been composed by Ahmed G. Chagla, the well known musician and composer.

The Anthem written in Urdu is a unique poetical composition, as in spite of its brevity it is a lyrical exultation for the quintessence of Pakistan its Islamic foundation, ideology,
ethos, aspirations and its intrinsic strength.



Following is the English Wording:

Blessed be the sacred Land
Happy be the bounteous realm
Symbol of high resolve
Land of Pakistan
Blessed be thou citadel of faith

The order of this sacred land
Is the might of the brotherhood of the People
May the nation, the country, and the state
Shine in glory everlasting
Blessed be the goal of our ambition

This Flag of the Crescent and Star
Leads the way to progress and perfection

Interpreter of our past, glory of our present
Inspiration of our future
Symbol of Almighty&#39;s protection
 

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