Pakistan Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Pakistan, State of South Asia; 796 095 km², 212.2 million residents (2019).The figures do not include the population (about 2 million) in the part of Pakistan controlled by the Jammu and Kashmir area, which since 1949 has been provisionally divided between Pakistan and India. Pakistan borders on Iran in the west, Afghanistan in the northwest, China in the north and India in the east. The country has a coast towards the Arabian Sea. The capital is Islamabad (1 million residents, 2017).

Country facts

Islami Jamhuriya e Pakistan / Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Country abbreviation: PK
Area: 796 095 km²
Population (2019): 212.2 million residents
Capital: Islamabad
Main languages: Urdu, Panjabi, Sindhi
State: Republic
Head of State: Arif Alvi (President)
Head of Government: Imran Khan
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 1,473
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 1,580
Currency unit: 1 rupee = 100 paisas
Currency code: PKR
Country number (telephony): 92
Internet domain name: pk
Time difference compared to Sweden: +4
National Day: March 23 (Founding of the Republic, 1956),
Independence Day: August 14, 1947

Nature

Land use: forest (5%), agricultural land (28%), other (77%)
Highest mountain: K2 (8,611 m above sea level)
Longest river: Indus (3,200 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 266 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.2%; birthrate 29 ‰, death count 7 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (36%), 15-64 (60%), 65- (4%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 66 years, women 68 years
Infant mortality (2019): 62 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 369 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.562 (place 150 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 37%
Most populous cities (2017): Karachi (14.9 million residents), Lahore (11.1 million), Faisalabad (3.2 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (24%), industry (19%), service (57%)
Exports (2017): US $ 32,880 million
Main export products: textile products, rice, leather
Main exporting countries: USA, UK, China
Imports (2017): US $ 53 110 million
Main import products: oil and oil products, machinery, plastics
Main Importing Countries: China, United Arab Emirates, USA
Railway network (2019): 11 900 km

Geography of Pakistan

Location and Borders

Pakistan is located in South Asia, bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan and Iran to the west, China to the north, and the Arabian Sea to the south. The country also shares a long border with India, which has been a source of tension and conflict, particularly over the disputed region of Kashmir. The total area of Pakistan is about 881,913 square kilometers, making it the 33rd largest country in the world.

Strategically located at the crossroads of Asia, Pakistan has long been a hub for trade and military activity. Its proximity to the Middle East, Central Asia, and China gives it a significant geopolitical importance, making the region a focal point of global strategic interests. The country’s diverse geography, ranging from mountain ranges to coastal plains, makes it rich in natural resources and agricultural potential.

Terrain and Landscape

The terrain of Pakistan is incredibly diverse, with mountains, deserts, plains, and coastline. The northern region of the country is dominated by the towering peaks of the Himalayan, Hindu Kush, and Karakoram mountain ranges. These ranges contain some of the highest mountains in the world, including K2, the second-highest peak on Earth, located in the Karakoram range. The mountains are a significant part of Pakistan’s identity, with their snow-capped peaks and deep valleys offering stunning views and contributing to the country’s tourism industry.

To the south of the mountains, the vast Punjab plain stretches across much of eastern Pakistan. This fertile region is one of the most agriculturally productive areas in the world, benefiting from the waters of the Indus River system, which is the lifeline of Pakistan’s agricultural economy. The Sindh region lies to the southeast, with the Thar Desert covering much of the area, known for its arid conditions and sparse vegetation. The southwestern part of Pakistan features rugged hills and valleys, while the coastal regions along the Arabian Sea are characterized by beaches, wetlands, and ports like Karachi, the country’s largest city and major economic center.

Natural Resources

Pakistan is endowed with a variety of natural resources, making it economically significant in the region. The country has vast reserves of coal, natural gas, and oil, although much of these resources remain underdeveloped due to infrastructural challenges and political factors. Pakistan’s energy sector remains dependent on both imported oil and its own resources, but efforts to harness alternative sources such as wind and solar energy are gaining ground.

In addition to fossil fuels, Pakistan is home to extensive agricultural resources. The fertile plains of Punjab and Sindh, along with the irrigation systems fed by the Indus River, allow the country to grow significant amounts of wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane. Pakistan also has rich mineral resources, including salt, limestone, and precious stones, though their extraction has often been hindered by political instability and underdeveloped infrastructure.

The country also has a strategic maritime location, with access to the Arabian Sea, which facilitates trade and provides access to valuable fishing resources. Pakistan’s coastal regions are home to rich marine life, contributing significantly to its seafood industry.

Climate of Pakistan

General Climate Zones

Pakistan experiences a range of climatic conditions due to its diverse geography. The climate varies from tropical and arid in the southern and coastal regions to temperate in the northern highlands. Broadly speaking, Pakistan experiences a hot, dry climate, with distinct seasons: summer, winter, and monsoon.

North and Mountainous Regions: The northern areas, especially the higher altitudes of the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges, have a temperate climate with cool summers and cold winters. These areas, including places like Gilgit-Baltistan, experience harsh winters with heavy snowfall, while summers remain mild. The high altitude gives the region a moderate climate, making it popular for trekking and mountaineering.
Plains and Lowlands: The central plains of Punjab and Sindh, which form much of Pakistan’s agricultural base, experience hot, dry summers and cooler winters. Temperatures during summer can reach over 40°C (104°F), while winters are milder, with temperatures typically ranging between 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).
Coastal Areas: Karachi and other coastal regions have a semi-arid climate with high humidity during the summer. The monsoon season brings significant rainfall to these areas, though they remain relatively dry the rest of the year.
Desert Regions: The Thar Desert in Sindh, and parts of Balochistan, experience extreme heat during the summer, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F). The dry conditions are complemented by dust storms and limited rainfall, making these areas challenging for agriculture and habitation.

Temperature and Weather Patterns

Pakistan’s weather patterns are highly influenced by the monsoon, which occurs from June to September. The monsoon season brings heavy rains, especially to the eastern and northern regions, while the western and southern regions tend to receive less rainfall. The monsoon is crucial for agriculture, particularly in Punjab and Sindh, as it replenishes water supplies in the Indus River system.

The summer season in Pakistan is characterized by intense heat, particularly in the plains and lowland areas, where temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). In contrast, the winter season, particularly in the mountainous regions, brings cold temperatures, and snowfall is common in higher altitudes. Pakistan also faces the challenge of rising temperatures due to climate change, which is contributing to water scarcity, melting glaciers in the north, and extreme weather events.

Environmental Issues

Pakistan faces a number of environmental challenges. Water scarcity is one of the most pressing issues, exacerbated by an overreliance on the Indus River system and increasing demand from agriculture, industry, and domestic use. Over-extraction of groundwater in many areas has led to falling water tables and reduced water availability. Pakistan is also vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with rising temperatures, droughts, and erratic rainfall patterns affecting the agricultural sector and the country’s ability to maintain food security.

Deforestation is another issue, with illegal logging and agricultural expansion causing significant loss of forests, especially in the northern and southwestern regions. Urbanization has also led to air pollution in cities like Lahore and Karachi, while waste management remains an ongoing problem.

People of Pakistan

Ethnic Composition

Pakistan is an ethnically diverse country, with several major ethnic groups and languages spoken across the region. The majority of Pakistan’s population is of Indo-Aryan descent, with Punjabis being the largest ethnic group, followed by Pashtuns (Pathans), Sindhis, and Baloch. There are also smaller communities of Mohajirs (immigrants from India post-partition), and indigenous groups in the north, such as the Kalash people.

Ethnic divisions in Pakistan often align with regional and linguistic differences, with major linguistic groups including Punjabi, Pashto, Sindhi, and Balochi, alongside Urdu, the national language, which serves as a unifying factor across the country. In the provinces, such as Sindh and Balochistan, ethnic identities are important and often tied to political autonomy and resource control.

Religious identity plays a significant role in the cultural makeup of Pakistan, with the overwhelming majority of the population identifying as Muslim, predominantly Sunni, though there is a significant Shia minority. Pakistan’s religious diversity also includes small communities of Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and other minority groups.

Language and Religion

Urdu, the national language, and English, the official language used in government, business, and education, are widely spoken across Pakistan. However, regional languages such as Punjabi, Pashto, Sindhi, and Balochi are spoken by millions in their respective regions. Urdu acts as a lingua franca, allowing communication among people from different ethnic backgrounds.

Islam is the dominant religion, with approximately 95-98% of the population identifying as Muslim. Sunni Islam is the predominant sect, though there is a significant Shia minority, particularly in areas such as Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Sindh. The practice of Islam influences many aspects of daily life in Pakistan, from dress codes to dietary habits. The country also hosts religious minorities, including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and others, though they make up a smaller portion of the population.

Religious festivals such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Ramadan are widely celebrated throughout the country, while Diwali and Christmas are significant to the Hindu and Christian communities, respectively. The observance of Islamic rituals, prayers, and festivals is central to the national identity, with mosques playing a key role in community life.

Population and Demographics

Pakistan is the world’s fifth-most populous country, with an estimated population of over 220 million people. The country has a youthful population, with a large proportion under the age of 30. Population growth remains high, driven by a high birth rate and a declining death rate. This young population presents both opportunities and challenges, as the country faces the task of providing education, healthcare, and employment to its growing number of young people.

Urbanization is accelerating, particularly in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, leading to issues such as overcrowding, slums, and inadequate infrastructure. While urban areas provide economic opportunities, rural areas remain heavily dependent on agriculture, and rural-to-urban migration continues to place strain on cities and towns.

Economy of Pakistan

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy, contributing around 24% of GDP and employing a significant portion of the population. Major crops include wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane. Pakistan is one of the world’s largest producers of cotton, and the textile industry is one of the country’s main exports. The fertile soil of the Punjab region, irrigated by the extensive canal systems derived from the Indus River, supports much of the agricultural production.

Livestock farming is another key sector, with Pakistan being one of the largest producers of milk and meat in the world. Dairy farming is particularly important in rural areas, while poultry farming has also expanded in recent years.

Natural resources are abundant, particularly in the form of minerals, coal, and natural gas. The Thar Desert holds significant coal reserves, and the country has been exploring its potential for energy production. However, the mining industry is underdeveloped due to infrastructural issues, political instability, and environmental concerns.

Manufacturing and Industry

Pakistan has a growing manufacturing sector, particularly in textiles, food processing, chemicals, and cement. The textile industry is a major contributor to Pakistan’s export revenue, making the country one of the largest exporters of textiles and garments in the world. Other industries, such as steel, fertilizer production, and cement, are also vital to the economy, though much of the industrial sector is still reliant on imported raw materials.

The manufacturing sector, while growing, faces challenges such as energy shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and political instability. The country’s electricity grid suffers from inefficiencies, and load shedding is a common problem in many areas. However, the government has been focusing on industrial development, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on agriculture.

Services and Technology

The services sector in Pakistan has been growing rapidly, particularly in finance, telecommunications, and IT. The banking and financial services sectors have undergone modernization, and the country’s telecom industry is one of the largest in the region. Pakistan has also seen growth in IT outsourcing and software development, with cities like Lahore and Islamabad becoming hubs for tech startups and innovation.

Tourism remains an underdeveloped sector, despite Pakistan’s natural beauty and historical sites. Regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Swat, and the Karakoram Highway offer potential for eco-tourism and adventure tourism, though political instability and security concerns have limited the growth of this industry.

Economic Challenges and Opportunities

Pakistan faces several economic challenges, including a large informal economy, corruption, and political instability. The country also struggles with a large trade deficit, inflation, and an underdeveloped infrastructure. Additionally, Pakistan’s energy crisis, which results in power shortages, has slowed industrial growth and hindered foreign investment.

However, Pakistan also has significant opportunities. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure development program, has the potential to significantly improve Pakistan’s transport networks, energy generation, and trade routes. Furthermore, the young population presents an opportunity for the country to harness its demographic dividend through investments in education, healthcare, and job creation.

Government of Pakistan

Political Structure

Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic, with a president serving as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The president holds a largely ceremonial role, while executive powers are vested in the prime minister and the cabinet. The prime minister is elected by the National Assembly, the lower house of Pakistan’s parliament, which is composed of 342 members elected for a five-year term.

Pakistan’s legislative structure is bicameral, consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate. The National Assembly represents the people, while the Senate represents the provinces, ensuring that regional interests are considered in the legislative process. Pakistan’s judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest judicial authority.

The country has a history of military involvement in politics, with several military coups resulting in long periods of military rule. However, Pakistan has transitioned back to civilian governance after the end of military regimes, though the military continues to play a significant role in national politics, particularly in matters of defense and security.

Political History

Pakistan’s political history has been marked by periods of democratic rule, military dictatorship, and political instability. The country was founded in 1947 as a homeland for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent, but it has struggled to define a stable political identity due to ethnic, religious, and regional tensions. The first few decades of Pakistan’s history were marked by military coups, political infighting, and the secession of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1971.

The military, led by General Zia-ul-Haq, took control in 1977 and ruled until his death in a plane crash in 1988. Since then, Pakistan has alternated between democratic and military rule, with political parties frequently experiencing confrontations, corruption scandals, and periods of instability. Despite these challenges, Pakistan remains a functioning democracy, with its political institutions growing stronger over time.

Current Political Landscape

Pakistan’s political landscape is dominated by a few key parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The PTI, led by former cricket star Imran Khan, has gained significant support in recent years, particularly among young voters and urban populations.

Despite the vibrant political scene, Pakistan continues to face challenges related to governance, corruption, and regional tensions. The political landscape remains polarized, with significant divisions between urban and rural areas, religious groups, and political factions. Nonetheless, Pakistan’s democracy has matured, and the country continues to navigate its complex political realities while balancing its relationships with neighboring countries and international powers.

Culture of Pakistan

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage, deeply influenced by its Islamic, Persian, and Indian roots. The country is known for its traditional arts, including intricate embroidery, pottery, and textile weaving. The crafts of Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are particularly renowned, with each region producing distinctive handicrafts like phulkari (embroidered shawls), kashmiri shawls, and sindhi ajrak (printed fabric).

Pakistan also has a rich tradition of music and dance, from the classical forms rooted in North Indian traditions to folk music from various regions. Instruments such as the sitar, tabla, and harmonium are integral to Pakistan’s classical music, while regional folk music often includes instruments like the dhol, sarang, and bansuri (flute).

Music and Dance

Pakistani music is diverse, with classical, folk, and contemporary genres. Classical music, influenced by Persian and Indian traditions, remains highly respected, with musicians performing in various classical forms, such as khayal and dhrupad. Folk music, which varies from region to region, includes vibrant songs and dances like bhangra from Punjab, dhol beats from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region, and sufi music from Sindh.

Contemporary music in Pakistan has been shaped by a blend of Western, Bollywood, and indigenous influences. The rise of Pakistani pop and rock music has gained international recognition, with artists like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and bands like Junoon and Vital Signs leading the way.

Cuisine

Pakistani cuisine is known for its rich, flavorful dishes, which blend South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian influences. Popular dishes include biryani, nihari, dal, and chapli kebab. Food in Pakistan is often spicy, with an emphasis on meat, rice, and wheat-based breads such as naan and roti.

Each region of Pakistan has its culinary traditions, with Punjab known for its hearty meat dishes, Sindh for its spicy curries, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for its kebabs and stews. Rice dishes, particularly pilaf and biryani, are common in urban and rural households, while yogurt, chutneys, and pickles accompany most meals.

Festivals and Holidays

Pakistan celebrates a variety of cultural and religious festivals. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the most significant religious holidays, marking the end of Ramadan and the commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice. Other Islamic festivals, including the Islamic New Year, Ashura, and the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, are also widely observed.

In addition to religious festivals, Pakistan celebrates national holidays like Independence Day (August 14), which marks the country’s creation in 1947. Cultural festivals such as Basant (celebrated in Lahore), which marks the arrival of spring, also play an important role in Pakistani life.

History of Pakistan

Early History and Independence

The history of Pakistan begins with the ancient civilizations that inhabited the Indus Valley, including the Harappan and Mohenjo-Daro cultures. These early civilizations made significant advancements in urban planning, trade, and writing. Over time, the region was conquered by various empires, including the Maurya Empire, Gupta Empire, and the Islamic Caliphates.

The modern history of Pakistan begins with the partition of British India in 1947, which led to the creation of Pakistan as a separate state for Muslims. The partition was marked by widespread violence and mass migration, with millions of Hindus and Muslims crossing borders. Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, became the first Governor-General of Pakistan, but the newly created state faced immediate challenges, including border disputes with India and internal political struggles.

Post-Independence History

Pakistan’s early years were marked by political instability, military coups, and conflicts with India. In 1971, the country faced a major crisis when East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) seceded following a bloody civil war. Since then, Pakistan has faced political turmoil, alternating between civilian governments and military rule. The military has been a significant force in Pakistani politics, particularly under leaders like General Zia-ul-Haq (1977–1988) and General Pervez Musharraf (1999–2008).

Modern History and Challenges

In the 21st century, Pakistan has faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, security concerns due to terrorism and internal conflicts, and tensions with neighboring India. The country has also dealt with natural disasters, such as the 2005 earthquake and 2010 floods, which have further strained its resources.

Despite these challenges, Pakistan has made strides in economic development and social progress, with improvements in education, infrastructure, and technology. However, political instability, corruption, and social inequality remain persistent issues. The ongoing conflict in neighboring Afghanistan and the complex dynamics of the Pakistani military’s role in governance continue to shape Pakistan’s future.