Where is Pakistan Located?

Where is Pakistan located on the map? Pakistan is an independent nation located in Southern Asia. Check out the following images to see location of Pakistan on maps.

Pakistan Location in World Map

Location Information of Pakistan

Latitude and Longitude

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. Its approximate geographic coordinates are 30.3753° N latitude and 69.3451° E longitude. Covering an area of approximately 881,913 square kilometers (340,509 square miles), Pakistan is the 33rd largest country in the world. The country’s diverse geography includes mountain ranges, deserts, plains, and a long coastline, which contributes to its varied climate and topography.

Pakistan’s location at the crossroads of Central and South Asia makes it an important geopolitical and cultural hub in the region.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Islamabad

The capital city of Pakistan is Islamabad, located in the northern part of the country, at the foot of the Margalla Hills. Islamabad is one of the most modern and well-planned cities in Pakistan, with a population of around 1 million in the city proper and around 2 million in the metropolitan area. Islamabad is the administrative center of Pakistan, home to the country’s government institutions, embassies, and international organizations. Key attractions include the Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in South Asia, the Pakistan Monument, and Daman-e-Koh, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city.

Major Cities

1. Karachi: Located on the southern coast of Pakistan, Karachi is the largest city and the financial capital of the country, with a population of over 16 million. Karachi is a major economic hub and serves as Pakistan’s key port city. The city is known for its diverse culture, bustling markets, and vibrant beaches such as Clifton Beach. Prominent landmarks include the Mohatta Palace, Karachi Marina Club, and Frere Hall.
2. Lahore: Located in the eastern part of the country, Lahore is Pakistan’s second-largest city with a population of about 11 million. It is the cultural capital of Pakistan and is known for its rich history, architectural landmarks, and vibrant arts scene. Major attractions include the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, Shalimar Gardens, and the Lahore Museum.
3. Rawalpindi: Rawalpindi, often referred to as Pindi, is located near Islamabad and is a significant city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It has a population of about 2 million. Rawalpindi is a key military city and a commercial hub. The city is famous for its bazaars, including the Saddar Bazaar, and its proximity to Murree, a hill station popular for its scenic views and cooler climate.
4. Peshawar: Located in the northwest of the country, Peshawar is the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and one of the oldest cities in Pakistan. It has a population of around 2 million. Peshawar is known for its historical significance, including its role as a trade hub and its proximity to the Khyber Pass. Attractions include the Peshawar Museum, Qissa Khwani Bazaar, and Bala Hisar Fort.
5. Quetta: Located in the southwest, Quetta is the capital of the Balochistan province and has a population of around 1 million. The city is strategically important, with its proximity to Afghanistan and Iran. Quetta is known for its rugged terrain, beautiful valleys, and markets selling dry fruits and handicrafts. Popular sites include the Quetta Fort, Hana Lake, and the Hazarganji Chiltan National Park.

Time Zone

Pakistan operates on Pakistan Standard Time (PKT), which is UTC +5:00. Pakistan does not observe daylight saving time, and the time remains the same throughout the year. This time zone is shared with countries like Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, and Kazakhstan.

Climate

Pakistan has a diverse climate, which varies significantly across its regions. The country experiences four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. Its geography influences its climate, with arid desert conditions in the southern regions, temperate climates in the northern areas, and monsoon rains in the summer.

1. Winter (December to February)

Winter in Pakistan generally lasts from December to February. During this period, temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the northern regions, with mountainous areas experiencing snow and sub-zero temperatures. Cities like Islamabad and Lahore have cooler temperatures, ranging from 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F), while Karachi has mild winter temperatures around 12°C to 24°C (54°F to 75°F).

2. Spring (March to May)

Spring lasts from March to May, bringing moderate temperatures and pleasant weather. The average temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it an ideal time to visit many parts of Pakistan. The flowering season in regions like Murree and Islamabad attracts tourists, and it’s a great time for outdoor activities.

3. Summer (June to August)

Summer in Pakistan is hot, particularly in the southern and central regions. Average temperatures during the summer range from 35°C to 45°C (95°F to 113°F), and it can get even hotter in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Multan. The monsoon season begins around June, bringing much-needed rainfall to the country, especially to the north and eastern regions, which helps in agricultural productivity.

4. Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is characterized by moderate temperatures and clear skies. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with pleasant weather across the country, especially in Lahore and Islamabad. The fall months are ideal for trekking in the northern regions, such as the Karakoram Range and Swat Valley, where the foliage changes colors.

Economic Status

Pakistan has a mixed economy with significant contributions from the agriculture, manufacturing, and services sectors. The country faces challenges such as poverty, unemployment, political instability, and security concerns that can hinder economic growth. Despite this, Pakistan has maintained steady economic growth, driven by its large population, natural resources, and strategic location.

1. Agriculture

Agriculture is a key component of Pakistan’s economy, providing employment to a large portion of the population. Key crops include wheat, rice, cotton, maize, and sugarcane. Pakistan is one of the largest producers of wheat and cotton globally. The Indus River system plays a significant role in irrigation, making the country one of the most agriculturally productive regions in South Asia.

2. Industry

Pakistan’s industrial sector includes textiles, cement, chemicals, food processing, and construction. The country is one of the largest exporters of textiles in the world, with garments, home textiles, and cotton yarn being key exports. The cement and steel industries are also significant contributors to the economy.

3. Energy

Pakistan has large deposits of coal and natural gas but is still dependent on oil imports to meet its energy needs. The country has been working to diversify its energy mix by investing in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. However, energy shortages and inefficient energy distribution remain challenges.

4. Services

The services sector in Pakistan has expanded rapidly in recent years, particularly in the fields of telecommunications, banking, finance, and information technology. The country has a growing IT outsourcing industry, particularly in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. The financial services industry has also seen growth, with major banks and insurance companies providing services regionally and internationally.

5. Challenges

Pakistan faces challenges related to political instability, security concerns, and corruption. The country has also struggled with energy crises, infrastructure deficiencies, and education disparities, which affect its overall development. However, ongoing reforms and a focus on improving the business environment could help in overcoming some of these obstacles.

Tourist Attractions

1. Karimabad and Hunza Valley Hunza Valley is one of Pakistan’s most scenic destinations, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes and historic forts such as Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. The region offers hiking, trekking, and cultural experiences. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks like Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar and provides stunning views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lush green valleys.
2. Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens Lahore, known as the cultural capital of Pakistan, is home to numerous historical landmarks. The Lahore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the grandeur of Mughal architecture. The Shalimar Gardens, a stunning example of Mughal landscaping, is another iconic site. Badshahi Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, is also located in Lahore.
3. Swat Valley Swat Valley, often referred to as the Switzerland of Pakistan, is located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It is famous for its picturesque landscapes, including lush valleys, rivers, and the towering Hindu Kush Mountains. The area offers trekking, fishing, and visits to ancient Buddhist archaeological sites like Udegram.
4. Mohenjo-Daro Mohenjo-Daro is an ancient city of the Indus Valley Civilization and is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Located in Sindh province, the ruins of this city provide insight into the advanced urban planning, drainage systems, and architecture of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
5. Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Fairy Meadows is a pristine spot offering spectacular views of Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world. The area is famous for its untouched natural beauty, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, and nature walks.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens require a visa to enter Pakistan. The visa application process requires a valid U.S. passport, a completed visa application form, and the submission of passport-size photographs. U.S. citizens can apply for a tourist visa, business visa, or transit visa through the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C., or its consulates. The tourist visa generally allows a stay of 30 to 90 days, depending on the type of visa issued.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

Distance to New York City

The distance from New York City to Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is approximately 7,300 kilometers (4,500 miles). Flights typically take about 12 to 14 hours, depending on the layover and route.

Distance to Los Angeles

The distance from Los Angeles to Islamabad is around 10,900 kilometers (6,770 miles). Flights from Los Angeles typically take about 13 to 15 hours, with at least one stopover, commonly in cities like Dubai or Istanbul.

Pakistan Facts

Size	796,095 km², including the disputed Kashmir area: 880,254 km²
Residents	203 million
Languages	Urdu and English
Capital	Islamabad
Longest river	Indus (3,180 km)
Highest mountain	K2 (8,611 m)
Currency	Pakistani rupee