Interesting Facts About Pakistan: Overview
Pakistan is a land of extraordinary contrasts, breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and world-class records. From towering peaks to ancient civilizations, this country holds some of the most fascinating titles across many categories. In this article, we uncover some of the highest, largest, longest, lowest, oldest, shortest, smallest, biggest, hottest, first, coolest, and tallest things found in Pakistan—proving just how remarkable and diverse this nation truly is.
Here are some of the most interesting records from every corner of the country:
First Things in Pakistan
Pakistan, since its creation in 1947, has experienced a journey marked by groundbreaking milestones across politics, science, sports, infrastructure, and culture. These “firsts” represent more than just historical records — they are milestones that paved the way for progress and development. From the first prime minister to the first Nobel laureate, Pakistan’s initial achievements form the foundation of its national identity.
Below is a detailed look at some of the most important “first things in Pakistan” across various sectors:
First Agriculture Reforms:
Introduced on January 24, 1959, under President Ayub Khan’s regime.
First Atomic Reactor Established:
Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH), Islamabad, in 1965 (not 1956).
First Atomic Power Station Installed:
Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP), inaugurated in 1972.
First Bank in Pakistan:
United Bank Limited (established August 7, 1947).
First Bio-Gas Plant Installed:
1974, under Pakistan Council of Appropriate Technology (PCAT).
First Chief Minister of Punjab:
Iftikhar Hussain Khan Mamdot (15 August 1947).
First Chief Minister of Sindh:
Ayub Khuhro (appointed 1947).
First Chief Minister of Balochistan:
Sardar Attaullah Mengal (1 May 1972).
First Commander-in-Chief of Pakistan Army:
General Sir Frank Messervy (August 15, 1947 – February 10, 1948).
First Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee:
General Muhammad Sharif (appointed March 1976).
First Chief of Staff of Armed Forces:
General Tikka Khan (served 1972–1976).
First Chief Justice of Pakistan:
Justice Sir Abdur Rashid (27 June 1949 – 29 June 1954).
First Chief Election Commissioner:
Mr. Khan F.M. Khan (appointed March 25, 1956).
First Census (Indo-Pak Region):
Conducted in 1881 under British India.
First Chairman of Senate of Pakistan:
Habibullah Khan Marwat (1973–1977).
First Constructed Barrage:
Sukkur Barrage, completed in 1932.
First Captain of Pakistan Cricket Team:
Abdul Hafeez Kardar (led team in 1952).
First Century Against India by Pakistani:
Nazar Mohammad in 1952 (not 1954) at Lucknow.
First Daily Newspaper of Pakistan:
Daily Amroze, launched in 1947.
First Election Commission Created:
Established on March 23, 1956, under Article 137 of the 1956 Constitution.
First Embassy Opened in Pakistan:
By Egypt in 1947.
First Governor of State Bank of Pakistan:
Zahid Hussain (July 1, 1948).
First Governor of Punjab (Post-Independence):
Sir Francis Mudie (1947–1949).
First Governor of Sindh (Post-Independence):
Ghulam Hussain Hidayatullah (1947–1948).
First Governor of Balochistan (Post-Province Status):
Lt. General Riaz Hussain (appointed 1970).
First Country to Recognize Pakistan:
Iran, August 1947.
First Female Governor:
Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan (Governor of Sindh, 1973–1976).
Designer of Pakistan’s National Emblem:
W.C. (William) Brandley.
First Female Major General:
Dr. Shahida Malik.
First Female Federal Minister:
Begum Viqar-un-Nisa Noon (held Tourism portfolio).
First Female Pilot:
Shukriya Khanum (licensed in 1959).
First Minority Federal Minister:
Jogendra Nath Mandal (Law and Labour portfolios, 1947).
First Muslim Commander-in-Chief of Army:
General Muhammad Ayub Khan (1951).
First Medical College in Pakistan:
Nishtar Medical College, Multan (established 1951).
First Museum Established in Pakistan:
National Museum, Karachi, inaugurated in 1950.
First Nishan-e-Haider Recipient:
Captain Muhammad Sarwar Shaheed (awarded posthumously in 1956).
First U.S. President to Visit Pakistan:
Dwight D. Eisenhower (visited in December 1959).
First Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir:
Abdul Hamid Khan (served 1947–1950s).
First President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir:
Sardar Muhammad Ibrahim Khan (elected 1947).
First Country Where Pakistan Opened an Embassy:
Iran.
First Private Airline in Pakistan:
Hajvari Airlines (brief operations in the 1990s).
First Private TV Channel in Pakistan:
Shalimar Television Network (STN), launched in 1990.
First Radio Station Established Post-Independence:
Radio Pakistan, Karachi (August 14, 1947).
First State to Join Pakistan:
Bahawalpur State in 1954.
First Secretary General of Pakistan:
Chaudhry Muhammad Ali (before becoming Prime Minister).
First Space Satellite Launched by Pakistan:
Badr-A, launched in July 1990.
First TV Station in Pakistan:
Established at Lahore on November 26, 1964.
First Women Bank in Pakistan:
First Women Bank Limited, established on December 1, 1989.
First Woman High Court Judge:
Justice Majida Rizvi (Sindh High Court, 1994).
First Women University:
Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi (established 1998).
The “firsts” in Pakistan’s history are not just markers on a timeline — they are testaments to the vision, courage, and ambition of a young nation determined to make its mark in the world. These pioneering achievements across politics, science, sports, and culture reveal a dynamic narrative of growth and resilience. As Pakistan continues its journey, these first steps lay the groundwork for even greater accomplishments in the decades to come.
Shortest Records in Pakistan
Pakistan is known for many towering achievements — from high mountains to major industrial feats — but it also holds some “shortest” records that are equally fascinating. These unique records give insight into the country’s diversity, geography, and history.
Here is a list of notable shortest records in Pakistan across different categories.
Shortest Tenure as Prime Minister:
Nurul Amin (December 7–20, 1971; 13 days)
Shortest Tenure as Prime Minister (civilian caretaker):
Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain (June 30–August 23, 2004; 54 days)
Shortest Tenure as Governor-General:
Major General Iskander Mirza (October 6, 1955 – March 23, 1956; approx. 5½ months)
Shortest River in Pakistan:
Korang River (approx. 30 km)
Shortest Tenure as Chief Justice:
Justice M. Shahabuddin (May 3 – May 12, 1960; 10 days)
Shortest War Involving Pakistan:
Indo-Pak War of 1971 (13 days: December 3–16, 1971)
Shortest National Highway:
N-5A (Connector from Taxila to Havelian; less than 10 km)
Shortest Railway Line (Functional):
Quetta (Short spur line under Pakistan Railways)
Shortest Winter in Major City:
Karachi (Only 2–3 weeks; based on regional climate data)
Shortest Tenure as CM of Sindh:
Arbab Ghulam Rahim (~24 days, May–June 2007)
From brief political appointments to the smallest districts and ethnic minorities, these shortest records highlight the fascinating extremes that exist within Pakistan. They may be brief or tiny in scale, but each holds a distinct place in the nation’s narrative, offering depth and diversity to Pakistan’s national profile.
Longest Records in Pakistan
Pakistan is a land of contrasts — towering mountains, vast deserts, and an evolving history that reflects the resilience and richness of its people. While shortest records often surprise, the longest records in Pakistan highlight the enduring, the grandest, and the most expansive feats in the country’s geography, infrastructure, governance, and human achievement.
Below is a curated list of remarkable “longest” records that Pakistan proudly holds:
Longest River in Pakistan:
Indus River – approximately 3,200 km (1,990 miles)
Longest National Highway:
N-5 (Karachi to Torkham) – approximately 1,819 km
Longest Road Tunnel:
Lowari Tunnel – approximately 10.4 km (5 miles); connects Chitral to Dir Upper
Longest Railway Tunnel:
Khojak Tunnel, Balochistan – approximately 3.9 km (2.43 miles); opened in 1891
Longest Glacier (under Pakistan’s claim):
Siachen Glacier – approximately 76 km
Longest Dam (by crest length):
Tarbela Dam – approximately 2.7 km; completed in 1976
Longest Dam Tunnel:
Warsak Dam Tunnel – approximately 5.6 km (3.5 miles)
Longest Canal:
Nara Canal – approximately 364 km
Longest-serving Prime Minister:
Nawaz Sharif – cumulative ~9 years and 179 days over three terms
Longest-serving President:
General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq – September 16, 1978 to August 17, 1988 (~9 years 11 months)
Longest-serving Chief Justice:
Justice Mohammad Haleem – 1981 to 1989
Longest-serving Chief of Army Staff:
General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq – March 1976 to August 1988 (~12 years)
Longest-serving Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee:
General Pervez Musharraf – 2001 to 2007 (~6 years)
Longest-serving Chief Election Commissioner:
F.M. Khan – 1956 to 1966 (~10 years)
Longest-serving Chief Minister of Punjab:
Shehbaz Sharif – served approximately 11 years across three terms
Longest Coastal Area:
Balochistan – 771 km of Pakistan’s total 1,046 km coastline
Longest Frontier:
Pakistan–Afghanistan Border (Durand Line) – approximately 2,252 km
Longest Motorway (planned):
M-8 Motorway – under phased construction; will be the longest once complete
Longest Period of Martial Law Rule:
General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq – 1977 to 1988 (~11 years)
Longest Railway Platform:
Rohri Railway Station (Sindh) – approximately 1,894 feet
Longest Railroad Route:
Karachi to Peshawar – approximately 1,681 km (1,045 miles)
Longest Road:
Karakoram Highway – 965 km; connects Pakistan with China via Khunjerab Pass
Longest Railway Track (Major Route):
Karachi to Landi Kotal – via Lahore and Peshawar
The longest records in Pakistan reveal a history of persistence, scale, and continuity. From the enduring flow of the Indus to the multi-decade tenures of national leaders, these milestones shape Pakistan’s political, geographical, and infrastructural identity. These records are not just statistics — they symbolize the depth and durability of the nation’s growth.
Smallest in Pakistan
While Pakistan is renowned for its towering mountains and vast deserts, it is also home to many noteworthy smallest records — from the tiniest provinces and districts to the shortest administrative units and physical landmarks. These smallest distinctions often go unnoticed but carry important historical, cultural, and administrative significance.
Below is a curated list of the most interesting “smallest” facts from across Pakistan:
Smallest Province (by area):
Islamabad Capital Territory – approximately 906 sq km (Note: ICT is a federal territory, not a province)
Smallest Province (by population):
Balochistan – lowest population among all four provinces despite being the largest in area
Smallest District (by area):
Karachi Central District – approximately 69 sq km
Smallest River (major):
Malir River (Karachi) – a seasonal river; one of the shortest significant rivers in urban Pakistan
Smallest Glacier:
Rupal Glacier – located near Nanga Parbat; notably smaller than other major glaciers like Baltoro or Siachen
Smallest Tehsil (by population):
Kahuta Tehsil, Rawalpindi District – among the least densely populated tehsils in Punjab
Smallest Cantonment (by built-up area):
Cherat Cantonment, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – small garrison area with minimal civilian infrastructure
Smallest National Park (by area):
Hazarganji‑Chiltan National Park – approximately 15,555 hectares; smaller than other national parks
Smallest Airport (civil use):
Sibi Airport (Balochistan) – limited civilian traffic and minimal facilities
Smallest University (first women’s institution):
Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi – modest campus; established in 1998 as the first women-only university in Pakistan
Smallest Tenure as Prime Minister:
Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain – approximately 2 months (June 30 to August 23, 2004)
Smallest Tenure as President:
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto – approximately 5 months (August 1973 to January 1974)
Smallest Tenure as Governor‑General:
Muhammad Ali Jinnah – approximately 13 months (August 15, 1947 to September 11, 1948)
Smallest Railway Station (by usage/elevation):
Kan Mehtarzai Station (Balochistan) – highest station in Pakistan; extremely low usage; now defunct
Though grand monuments and vast landscapes dominate headlines, Pakistan’s smallest records offer a unique lens into the country’s diversity, heritage, and hidden treasures. These compact wonders are often rich in culture, identity, and symbolism — showing us that small doesn’t mean insignificant.
Largest in Pakistan
Pakistan is a land of contrasts — from the highest peaks to the widest rivers, and the largest deserts to the most populated cities. These “largest” records reflect the country’s diversity, richness, and vastness in geography, infrastructure, culture, and development.
Explore below the most significant largest records of Pakistan across multiple domains:
Largest Province (by area):
Balochistan — approximately 347,190 sq km
Largest Province (by population):
Punjab — approximately 127 million (Census 2023)
Largest City (by population & area):
Karachi — over 20 million people; area approximately 3,780 sq km
Largest District (by area):
Chagai District, Balochistan — 44,748 sq km
Largest River:
Indus River — 3,180 km long; lifeline of Pakistan
Largest Glacier:
Siachen Glacier — 76 km long; located in Pakistan-administered region (disputed)
Largest Dam (by reservoir capacity):
Tarbela Dam — 13.69 cubic km (11.6 million acre-feet)
Largest Dam (by structure height):
Diamer-Bhasha Dam — 272 meters (under construction)
Largest Barrage:
Sukkur Barrage — 1,463 meters long (4,800 feet)
Largest Natural Lake:
Manchar Lake, Sindh — up to 250 sq km (seasonal variation)
Largest Artificial Lake:
Keenjhar Lake (Kalri), Sindh — approximately 134 sq km
Largest Desert:
Thar Desert — spans Sindh and southeastern Punjab
Largest Fort:
Ranikot Fort, Sindh — 32 km in circumference
Largest Mosque (by capacity):
Grand Jamia Mosque, Bahria Town Lahore — capacity of approximately 70,000 worshippers
Largest Mosque (by area):
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad — largest covered area among mosques in Pakistan
Largest University (by enrollment):
Allama Iqbal Open University — over 1.2 million students
Largest University Campus (by land):
Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan — over 1,800 acres
Largest Hospital (by beds):
Mayo Hospital, Lahore — more than 3,000 beds
Largest Hospital (southern Punjab):
Nishtar Hospital, Multan — major medical facility of the region
Largest Railway Station (by area):
Lahore Railway Station — central junction and high traffic
Largest Airport (by area):
Jinnah International Airport, Karachi — around 3,200 acres
Largest Cantonment:
Karachi Cantonment — most extensive by area and population
Largest Port:
Port Qasim, Karachi — larger in area and cargo handling than Karachi Port
Largest Industrial Zone:
Sundar Industrial Estate, Lahore — over 1,600 acres
Largest Oil Refinery:
Pak-Arab Refinery (PARCO) — processing capacity of 100,000 barrels per day
Largest Oil Field (onshore):
Dhurnal Oil Field, Punjab — significant onshore petroleum reserves
Largest Gold & Copper Reserve:
Reko Diq, Balochistan — world-class mineral deposit
Largest Salt Mine:
Khewra Salt Mine — over 110 sq km; second-largest in the world
Largest Nuclear Power Plant:
K-2 Plant, Karachi — 1,100 MW capacity (operational)
Largest Nuclear Reactor (first):
KANUPP-I, Karachi — commissioned in 1972
Largest Coal Power Plant:
Sahiwal Coal Power Plant — 1,320 MW capacity
Largest Solar Park:
Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park, Bahawalpur — 1,000 MW planned capacity
Largest National Park:
Hingol National Park, Balochistan — around 6,200 sq km
Largest Motorway (by planned length):
M-8 Motorway — over 892 km (still under construction)
Largest Highway:
N-5 (GT Road) — 1,819 km from Karachi to Torkham
Largest Island:
Astola Island, Balochistan — 6.7 sq km
Largest Garrison City:
Rawalpindi — headquarters of Pakistan Army
Largest Military Airbase:
PAF Base Masroor, Karachi — strategic airbase
Largest Expo Center:
Karachi Expo Center — biggest exhibition complex in Pakistan
Largest Border Crossing:
Wagah Border, Lahore — busiest crossing with India
Largest Monument (by height):
Minar-e-Pakistan, Lahore — 70 meters tall
Largest Shopping Mall:
Lucky One Mall, Karachi — 3.4 million square feet
Largest Theme Park:
Bahria Adventure Land, Karachi — large-scale park with modern rides
Largest Airline:
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) — national carrier
Largest Urdu Newspaper (circulation):
Daily Jang — highest readership nationwide
Largest English Newspaper (circulation):
The News International — leading English daily
Largest Commercial Bank:
National Bank of Pakistan — leading in assets and branches
Largest Cement Plant:
Lucky Cement, Lakki Marwat — high production capacity facility
Largest Division (Sindh, by area):
Tharparkar Division — geographically the most expansive in Sindh
Largest Hockey Stadium (by seating):
National Hockey Stadium, Lahore — world’s largest by seating capacity
Largest Man-Made Forest:
Changa Manga Forest, Kasur — over 12,000 acres of planted forest
Largest Public Library:
Quaid-e-Azam Library, Lahore — historic site with vast collection
Largest Language Group:
Punjabi — spoken by approximately 48% of the population
Largest Museum:
National Museum of Pakistan, Karachi — key national heritage repository
Largest Textile Industry Hub:
Faisalabad — known as the “Manchester of Pakistan”
Largest Steel Plant:
Pakistan Steel Mills, Karachi — largest integrated steel complex
Largest Urban Road:
Shahrah-e-Pakistan, Karachi — major urban artery
Largest Radio Station HQ:
Radio Pakistan, Islamabad — national broadcasting headquarters
Largest Railway Workshop:
Mughalpura Workshop, Lahore — oldest and largest of its kind
Largest Stock Exchange:
Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), Karachi — main financial trading center
Largest Athletics Stadium:
Jinnah Stadium, Islamabad — national athletics venue
Largest Seaport (busiest):
Karachi Port — highest cargo throughput in the country
Largest Shipping Company:
Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) — state-owned, largest fleet
Largest Trade Partner (historical):
United States — consistently among Pakistan’s top trade partners
Longest-serving Governor General:
Ghulam Muhammad — served from 1951 to 1955
Oldest & Historic University:
University of the Punjab, Lahore — established in 1882
Largest Park (Urban):
Ayub National Park, Rawalpindi — approximately 2,300 acres
Largest Mobile Network (by users):
Jazz (formerly Mobilink) — leading subscriber base in Pakistan
From majestic mosques to mighty rivers, the largest landmarks of Pakistan represent its national scale, strength, and potential. These records reflect not only geographical and infrastructural size but also the cultural, historical, and strategic significance of each giant entity. As Pakistan continues to evolve, these largest icons stand as pillars of its proud identity.
Lowest Points in Pakistan
While Pakistan is famed for its towering mountains and majestic plateaus, the country also features some of the lowest points geographically, climatically, and administratively. These “lowest” records offer a unique perspective into the nation’s geography, climate diversity, and statistical extremities — from sea level locations to minimum rainfall zones.
Explore this well-researched list of the lowest points in Pakistan across different categories:
Lowest Point (overall):
Arabian Sea – Sea level (0 m)
Lowest Point on Land:
Kharan Desert Basin, Balochistan – ~50–60 m above sea level
Lowest Temperature Recorded:
–20.7 °C at Skardu in December 2019 — breaking previous record
Lowest Annual Rainfall Area:
Nok Kundi, Chagai District, Balochistan – ~35 mm/year (virtually no rainfall)
Lowest Literacy Rate (province):
Balochistan – ~42% as per Census 2023
Lowest Population Density (province):
Balochistan – ~25 people per sq km (lowest among provinces)
Lowest Forest Cover (province):
Balochistan – less than 1% forest area
Lowest Elevation City:
Gwadar – near sea level (0–10 m elevation)
Lowest River Elevation:
Indus River delta – meets Arabian Sea at sea level
Lowest HDI Region:
Former FATA (now merged with KP) – historically lowest Human Development Index
Lowest Voter Turnout (district):
NA-260 (Quetta-Chagai) – around 20–25% in recent elections
Lowest Agricultural Rainfall Region:
Parts of Sindh & Punjab adjoining Balochistan — consistent drought zones
Lowest Out-of-School Children Rate (province proportion):
Balochistan – over 57% of children aged 5–16 never attended school
Lowest Carbon Emissions (province):
Gilgit-Baltistan – minimal industrial activity
Lowest Road Access Region:
Shaksgam Valley (disputed, northern border) – virtually no road infrastructure
Lowest Railway Station (by elevation):
Zero Point Station, Khokhrapar, Sindh — near sea level, approx. 10–15 m elevation
Lowest Airbase (by elevation):
Masroor Airbase, Karachi — elevation ~22 m above sea level
Lowest Dam (by elevation of site):
Haleji Lake Bund / Keenjhar Spillway, Sindh — both near sea level, part of low-lying flood control systems
Lowest Airport (by elevation):
Jinnah International Airport, Karachi — elevation ~30 m
Lowest Fort (by elevation):
Manora Fort, Karachi — near coastline at or just above sea level
From sea-level coastlines to desert plains with the least rainfall, Pakistan’s lowest points tell the story of a geographically and climatically diverse nation. These low areas, while often overlooked, hold immense ecological, economic, and strategic importance. Whether it’s the bustling coastal cities or the dry terrains of Balochistan, each low point contributes uniquely to Pakistan’s national landscape.
Highest in Pakistan
Pakistan is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking peaks, towering structures, and record-setting achievements. From majestic mountains and architectural marvels to educational and environmental extremes, the “highest” records in Pakistan reflect both natural splendor and human accomplishment.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the highest points, places, and records in Pakistan:
Highest Point (Overall)
K2 (Mount Godwin-Austen), Gilgit-Baltistan — 8,611 meters, second-highest mountain in the world
Highest Peak (in Hindu Kush)
Tirich Mir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — 7,708 meters
Highest Peak (Sulaiman Range)
Takht-e-Sulaiman — 3,487 meters (11,440 feet)
Highest Plateau
Deosai Plains, Gilgit-Baltistan — ~4,114 meters
Highest Village
Shimshal, Hunza — ~3,100 meters
Highest Valley
Shimshal Valley — ~3,100 meters
Highest Glacier (by elevation)
Baltoro Glacier — base elevation starts above 3,600 meters
Highest Cold Desert
Katpana Desert, Skardu — ~2,226 meters
Highest Mountain Range
Karakoram Range — home to Pakistan’s tallest peaks including K2
Highest Road
Karakoram Highway near Khunjerab — ~4,714 meters
Highest Pass (Highway)
Khunjerab Pass — 4,693 meters
Highest Pass (Overall)
Muztagh Pass — ~5,800 meters (19,030 feet), Karakoram Range
Highest Bridge (on highway)
Hussaini Suspension Bridge — ~2,600 meters
Highest Road Tunnel
Lowari Tunnel — ~3,118 meters
Highest Tunnel (under construction)
Shounter Tunnel — ~3,000 meters
Highest Cable Car (planned)
Ayubia to Nathiagali — high hill station elevation
Highest Dam (by elevation)
Satpara Dam, Skardu — ~2,636 meters
Highest Lake
Paristan Lake, Gilgit-Baltistan — ~4,755 meters
Highest Waterfall
Farphu Waterfall, Bagrot Valley, GB — ~80–90 m high at ~3,000 meters
Highest Fort
Altit Fort, Hunza — ~2,800 meters
Highest National Park
Khunjerab National Park — ranges from 2,400 to over 4,800 meters
Highest Airport
Skardu International Airport — 2,230 meters
Highest Airbase
Skardu Airbase — ~2,230 meters
Highest Weather Station
Khunjerab Top Automatic Weather Station — ~4,700 meters
Highest Railway Station (Operational)
Kan Mehtarzai Station (now defunct), Balochistan — 2,224 meters
Highest Railway Station (Planned)
Gilgit–Skardu route — proposed, not yet operational
Highest Public School
Government High School, Shimshal — ~3,100 meters
Highest Mosque
Khunjerab Mosque — ~4,700 meters
Highest Internet Tower (Remote)
Concordia Base Camp — among world’s highest
Highest Cricket Ground
Shandur Polo Ground — ~3,700 meters
Highest Cricket Stadium (by elevation)
Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium — ~1,584 meters
Highest Polo Ground
Shandur Polo Ground — highest polo field in the world
Highest Military Post
Bana Post, Siachen Glacier — over 6,000 meters
Highest Battlefield
Siachen Glacier — world’s highest-altitude battlefield
Highest Rainfall Area
Murree Hills — over 1,800 mm average annual rainfall
Highest Temperature (Recorded)
Turbat, Balochistan — 53.7°C in 2017
Highest Literacy Rate (Province)
Islamabad Capital Territory — over 90%
Highest Literacy Rate (District)
Islamabad
Highest Population Density (Province/District)
Islamabad / Lahore — ~6,300 people per sq. km
Highest GDP per Capita (Province)
Islamabad Capital Territory
Highest Voter Turnout (Election)
NA-130 (Lahore) — over 60%
Highest Civil Award
Nishan-e-Pakistan — for top civilian contributions
Highest Military Award
Nishan-e-Haider — for gallantry in armed forces
Pakistan’s “highest” records reflect a remarkable diversity in geography, climate, development, and achievement. From snow-capped giants like K2 to high-altitude lakes, roads, and cricket pitches, these superlatives showcase the nation’s vast potential and natural grandeur. Whether you’re a traveler, student, or researcher, exploring these “highest in Pakistan” facts opens a window into the extraordinary facets of this beautiful country.
Tallest in Pakistan
Pakistan is home to some of the tallest structures, monuments, natural formations, and human achievements in South Asia. These towering records reflect the country’s architectural progress, natural wonders, and symbolic aspirations.
From skyscrapers and minarets to natural giants and man-made engineering, this article presents a detailed look at the tallest features in Pakistan.
Tallest Building (Historic)
Habib Bank Plaza, Karachi — 95.5 m (313 ft), 22 stories; tallest from 1963 until surpassed in 2000s
Tallest Building (Currently)
Bahria Icon Tower, Karachi — 300 m (984 ft); currently the tallest in Pakistan
Tallest Residential Building
Bahria Town Tower, Karachi — ~272 m; among highest residential towers in the country
Tallest Hotel (Under Construction)
PC Tower, Karachi — ~210 m planned; will be Pakistan’s tallest hotel
Tallest Monument
Minar-e‑Pakistan, Lahore — 62 m (203 ft); national landmark
Tallest Minarets (Mosque)
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad — each minaret ~90 m (286–300 ft), tallest in South Asia
Tallest Mountain Peak
K2 (Mount Godwin‑Austen), Karakoram — 8,611 m (28,251 ft); second-highest in the world
Tallest Peak in Hindu Kush
Tirich Mir, Chitral — 7,708 m
Tallest Peak in Sulaiman Range
Takht‑e‑Sulaiman — 3,487 m (11,440 ft)
Tallest Plateau
Deosai Plains, Gilgit-Baltistan — ~4,114 m
Tallest Glacier (by elevation)
Baltoro Glacier — base elevation starts above 3,600 m
Tallest Mountain Pass
Muztagh Pass — ~5,800 m (19,030 ft); Karakoram
Tallest Road (Paved)
Karakoram Highway near Khunjerab Pass — ~4,714 m
Tallest Railway Station (Historic)
Khan Mehtarzai Station, Balochistan — 2,221 m (7,287 ft); formerly highest
Tallest Airport
Skardu International Airport — ~2,230 m
Tallest Military Post
Bana Post, Siachen Glacier — over 6,000 m; highest active military position
Tallest ATC Tower
Islamabad International Airport — ~100 m
Tallest Telecommunication Tower
Islamabad Telecom Tower — ~113 m
Tallest Wind Turbines
Jhimpir Wind Corridor — hub heights 90–120 m; blade tip peaks ~150 m
Tallest Dome (Mausoleum)
Tomb of Shah Rukn‑e‑Alam, Multan — dome ~35 m
Tallest Gurdwara Spire
Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur — spire ~35–40 m
Tallest Fort Walls
Derawar Fort, Cholistan — walls ~30 m high
Tallest Clock Tower
Ghanta Ghar, Faisalabad — ~50 m
Tallest Transmission Line Towers
HVDC Matiari–Lahore Line — some towers exceed 60 m
Tallest Statue (Proposed)
Quaid‑e‑Azam Statue — proposed height over 100 m (Karachi/Gwadar)
Tallest Bridge Pillars (Planned)
ML-1 Railway Upgrade — expected to feature Pakistan’s tallest bridge columns
The tallest records in Pakistan showcase a unique blend of natural wonders, architectural progress, and national pride. From the sky-piercing peaks of K2 to the rising towers of Karachi, these features represent the ambition and potential of a country on the rise. Whether it’s in infrastructure, environment, or symbolism, Pakistan’s “tallest” stand as a tribute to its aspirations and capabilities.
Biggest in Pakistan
Pakistan, a nation blessed with vast geographic diversity and rich cultural heritage, also boasts some of the biggest features in South Asia. From sprawling deserts to mega dams, the “biggest” records in Pakistan are symbols of national pride and progress.
This article highlights the largest — whether by area, size, volume, or capacity — that define the country’s landscape and development.
Biggest Province (by Area)
Balochistan — covers ~44% of Pakistan’s total land area
Biggest Province (by Population)
Punjab — population exceeds 120 million
Biggest Division (by Area)
Kalat Division, Balochistan — largest administrative division by land
Biggest Division (by Population)
Lahore Division — most populous division in Pakistan
Biggest District (by Area)
Chagai District, Balochistan — ~44,748 km²; borders Iran and Afghanistan
Biggest District (by Population)
Lahore District — over 11 million residents
Biggest Tehsil (by Population)
Lahore City Tehsil
Biggest City (by Population)
Karachi — population over 16 million; most populous in Pakistan
Biggest City (by Area)
Quetta — largest city by land area
Biggest Cantonment
Pano Aqil Cantonment — one of the largest military cantonments by area
Biggest University Campus
University of the Punjab, Lahore — largest by land and enrollment
Biggest Medical Institute
Allama Iqbal Medical College — largest campus area; KEMU most historically significant
Biggest University (Private)
University of Lahore — largest private-sector university by student body
Biggest Library (Academic)
Dr. Muhammad Hamidullah Library, IIUI, Islamabad
Biggest Mosque
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad — capacity of ~100,000 worshippers
Biggest Fort
Ranikot Fort, Sindh — ~30 km circumference; among the world’s largest
Biggest Dam (by Volume)
Tarbela Dam — world’s largest earth-filled dam
Biggest Dam (by Structural Height)
Diamer-Bhasha Dam (under construction) — projected to be among the tallest RCC dams globally
Biggest Lake (Natural)
Manchar Lake, Sindh — largest natural freshwater lake in Pakistan
Biggest Lake (Artificial)
Keenjhar Lake (Kalri Lake), Thatta — largest man-made lake
Biggest Desert
Thar Desert — spans Sindh and southeastern Punjab
Biggest National Park
Hingol National Park, Balochistan — ~6,200 km²; largest national park
Biggest Airport
Islamabad International Airport — largest in area and passenger capacity
Biggest Airport Terminal (by Area)
Islamabad International Airport Terminal
Biggest Seaport
Karachi Port — oldest and busiest seaport
Biggest Deep Sea Port
Gwadar Port, Balochistan — largest deep-sea port under development
Biggest Naval Base
Jinnah Naval Base, Ormara — main operational naval base
Biggest Oil Field
Dhodak Oil Field, Punjab — one of the largest by reserves
Biggest Gas Field
Sui Gas Field, Balochistan — primary source of natural gas
Biggest Hydropower Station
Tarbela Dam — installed capacity over 4,800 MW
Biggest Thermal Power Plant
Kot Addu Power Plant (KAPCO), Punjab
Biggest Wind Power Project
Jhimpir Wind Corridor, Sindh — hub of Pakistan’s wind energy
Biggest Solar Power Plant
Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park, Bahawalpur
Biggest Industrial Estate
Sundar Industrial Estate, Lahore — largest planned industrial zone
Biggest Industrial Unit (Public Sector)
Pakistan Steel Mills, Karachi
Biggest Refinery
Pak-Arab Refinery (PARCO), Mahmood Kot, Punjab
Biggest Textile Industry
Pakistan’s textile sector — largest contributor to GDP and exports
Biggest Export Item
Textile (Cotton-based) — top export commodity
Biggest Park
Ayub National Park, Rawalpindi — over 2,300 acres
Biggest Cricket Stadium
National Stadium, Karachi — capacity ~34,000
Biggest Hockey Stadium
National Hockey Stadium, Lahore — capacity ~45,000; largest in the world
Biggest Railway Station (by Platforms)
Lahore Junction Railway Station
Biggest Railway Workshop
Mughalpura Railway Workshops, Lahore
Biggest Railway Track (Section)
Main Line-1 (ML-1) — Karachi to Peshawar route
Biggest Library (Public)
Punjab Public Library, Lahore — oldest and largest public library
Biggest Civil Hospital
Mayo Hospital, Lahore — one of the oldest and largest hospitals
Biggest Man-made Forest
Changa Manga Forest, Punjab — among world’s largest artificial forests
Biggest Naval Dockyard
Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works
Biggest Port Trust
Karachi Port Trust (KPT) — manages country’s busiest seaport
Biggest Barrage
Sukkur Barrage — oldest (1932) and largest barrage
Biggest Airline
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) — national flag carrier and largest airline
Biggest Commercial Bank
Habib Bank Limited (HBL) — largest by assets and branch network
From the majestic Indus River to the mighty Tarbela Dam, and from the sprawling deserts of Thar to the urban skyline of Karachi, Pakistan’s “biggest” achievements and landmarks reflect its geographical grandeur and evolving infrastructure. These records represent scale, growth, and national pride across diverse sectors.
Coolest Things in Pakistan
Pakistan is not just a country of deserts and warm plains — it also hosts some of the coldest and most breathtaking destinations in South Asia. From the snow-covered peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan to the scenic meadows of Azad Kashmir, the coolest places in Pakistan offer mesmerizing beauty, crisp air, and a perfect escape from the summer heat. These regions remain chilly even in warmer months, making them year-round tourist magnets and ideal for adventure seekers.
Below is a list of Pakistan’s coolest places, both by temperature and travel experience:
Coolest Place
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan — often records temperatures below -20°C in winter.
Coolest Inhabited Place
Astore Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan — extremely cold winters, below -18°C.
Coolest Town (Lowest Temperature Ever)
Parachinar, Kurram Agency — temperature recorded as low as -23°C.
Coolest Valley
Bagrot Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan — snow-covered much of the year due to high elevation.
Coolest City (Major Urban Area)
Quetta, Balochistan — coldest major city, frequently below freezing in winter.
Coolest Rainy Destination
Murree, Punjab — cool summers, monsoon rains, and snowy winters.
Coolest Snowfall Zone
Malam Jabba, Swat — scenic, snow-covered slopes and Pakistan’s ski resort.
Coolest Summer Retreat
Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan — moderate climate even in summer (15–20°C).
Coolest Glacier
Siachen Glacier — world’s highest battlefield, located in an extremely icy region.
Coolest Lake
Sheosar Lake, Deosai Plains — one of the highest and coldest lakes, freezes in winter.
Coolest Plateau
Deosai Plains — second-highest plateau in the world, very cold year-round.
Coolest Cold Desert
Katpana Desert, Skardu — unique high-altitude cold desert.
Coolest Ice Caves
Ice Caves near Chilas — rare natural formations in the northern mountains.
Coolest Road
Karakoram Highway — world’s highest paved international road, reaching freezing heights.
Coolest Tunnel
Lowari Tunnel — cuts through icy mountains to connect Dir and Chitral.
Coolest Polo Ground
Shandur Polo Ground — world’s highest polo ground (3,700 m), very cold even in summer.
Coolest Mosque
Khunjerab Mosque — located near the China border at about 4,700 m elevation.
Coolest Cricket Ground
Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium — surrounded by snow-capped mountains and cool breeze.
Coolest Adventure Destination
Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp — alpine meadows with cold winds and glacier views.
Coolest Fort
Altit Fort, Hunza — historic fort located at a high altitude in a cold region.
Coolest Cultural Event
Shandur Polo Festival — held at extreme altitude with freezing temperatures.
Coolest Zipline Adventure
Malam Jabba Zipline — high-altitude thrill ride through cold mountain air.
Coolest Temperature Ever Recorded
Skardu — temperature dropped to approximately -26°C.
Whether you’re seeking snow-draped scenery, quiet escapes, or refreshing mountain air, these coolest destinations in Pakistan offer natural beauty alongside temperature drops. They are perfect for trekking, photography, cultural exploration, and beating the summer heat.
These areas also reflect the diverse climate zones of Pakistan, ranging from desert heat to alpine cold — a unique feature of this incredible nation.
Hottest Things in Pakistan
Pakistan is home to some of the hottest places on Earth, with record-breaking summer temperatures that test the limits of human endurance. These scorching locations are often in the plains and desert regions of the country and are known for long, dry summers with little rainfall and soaring heatwaves.
From world temperature records to heat-struck cities, here’s a detailed look at the hottest things in Pakistan — both by climate and statistics.
Hottest Place
Jacobabad, Sindh — Consistently ranks among the hottest places on Earth, with summer temperatures reaching 52°C (126°F).
Hottest Inhabited Town
Sibi, Balochistan — Often experiences temperatures over 50°C in summer, making it one of the hottest inhabited towns.
Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded
Mohenjo-daro, Sindh — Recorded 53.5°C in May 2010, the highest temperature ever officially recorded in Pakistan.
Hottest City (Major Urban Area)
Larkana, Sindh — Among Pakistan’s hottest large cities, frequently records 50°C+ in peak summer.
Hottest District
Dadu District, Sindh — Encompasses several of Pakistan’s hottest areas, including Mohenjo-daro and surrounding plains.
Hottest Desert
Thar Desert, Sindh — Arid region with extremely high summer temperatures and intense heat waves.
Hottest Valley
Turbat Valley, Balochistan — Known for scorching heat; temperatures have reached 53°C.
Hottest Road
RCD Highway (N-25) — Passes through Sibi and other intensely hot regions of Balochistan.
Hottest Province (Average Summer Temperature)
Sindh — Has the highest average summer temperatures in Pakistan, especially in Upper Sindh.
Hottest Industrial Area
SITE Industrial Zone, Karachi — Due to dense development and machinery, it becomes a heat island during summer.
Hottest Railway Station
Jacobabad Railway Station — Known for extreme temperatures and record-setting heat.
Hottest Airport
Jacobabad Airport — Often shuts down flight operations during peak summer hours due to intense surface heat.
Hottest Dry Riverbed (Nai)
Nai Gaj (Dadu District) — Dries up in summer with surrounding areas reaching record highs.
Hottest Historical Site
Mohenjo-daro, Sindh — Besides its archaeological importance, it’s one of the hottest ancient sites globally.
Hottest Market Area
Liaquat Market, Sibi — Open-air market with temperatures soaring over 50°C, especially in June.
The hottest places in Pakistan tell the story of a country with diverse and extreme climates — from snow-covered mountains to scorching deserts. While these regions face heat challenges, they are also crucial to Pakistan’s agriculture and industry.
With climate change intensifying, monitoring and adapting to such extreme heat is more important than ever for public health and environmental sustainability.
Oldest in Pakistan
Pakistan is a land of ancient civilizations, historic cities, and enduring institutions. From the cradle of the Indus Valley Civilization to the oldest universities and newspapers, the country holds treasures that go back thousands of years.
Here’s a detailed look at some of the oldest things in Pakistan, each representing a vital chapter in its historical and cultural identity.
Oldest Civilization
Indus Valley Civilization (Mehrgarh & Mohenjo-daro) — Dating back to 7000 BCE (Mehrgarh) and 2600 BCE (Mohenjo-daro), among the world’s earliest urban cultures.
Oldest City (Continuously Inhabited)
Multan, Punjab — Believed to be over 5,000 years old, known as the “City of Saints.”
Oldest Capital (Historical)
Taxila (Takṣaśilā) — Ancient Gandhara capital, flourishing from 6th century BCE, center of learning and Buddhism.
Oldest Mosque in Pakistan
Masjid Mahabat Khan, Peshawar (1630 CE) — Among the oldest still-functional mosques in Pakistan.
(Note: While older mosques may have existed, this is the oldest well-preserved Mughal-era mosque still in use.)
Oldest University Site
Ancient University at Taxila — One of the world’s earliest centers of higher learning, existing around 5th century BCE.
Oldest Fort
Ranikot Fort, Sindh — Although rebuilt several times, its origins trace back possibly to the Sassanid era, before 500 CE.
Oldest Hindu Temple
Katas Raj Temples, Chakwal — Existence traced to pre-8th century, part of the ancient Hindu pilgrimage.
Oldest Buddhist Site
Dharmarajika Stupa, Taxila — Constructed by Emperor Ashoka in 3rd century BCE.
Oldest Church
St. John’s Church, Peshawar (1851) — First Anglican church in Pakistan, still active.
Oldest Railway Station
Lahore Railway Station (opened 1860s) — Still in use and largely in original form.
Oldest Barrage
Sukkur Barrage (Completed in 1932) — Oldest major barrage still operational in Pakistan.
Oldest Hydroelectric Plant
Malakand Hydropower Station (1951) — One of the earliest established post-independence.
Oldest University (Modern)
University of the Punjab, Lahore — Established in 1882, it is the oldest modern university in Pakistan.
Oldest Dam (Modern)
Warsak Dam (built in 1960) — Among the earliest multi-purpose dams post-independence.
Oldest Monument
Minar-e-Pakistan (1968) — Oldest national monument commemorating the Pakistan Resolution (though modern).
Oldest Written Record Found in Pakistan
Harappan Seals (Mohenjo-daro & Harappa) — Engravings from around 2600 BCE still undeciphered.
Oldest Museum
Lahore Museum — Established in 1865, oldest and most comprehensive museum in Pakistan.
Oldest Newspaper (Still in Circulation)
Daily Jang — First published in 1939, originally from Delhi.
Oldest Industrial Unit
Pakistan Steel Mills (established 1973) — Among the first large-scale public sector industrial complexes.
Oldest Film Studio
Evernew Studios, Lahore (Established 1937) — Operated before independence and still functional.
Oldest National Park
Lal Suhanra National Park, Bahawalpur (Declared in 1972) — First designated national park in Pakistan.
The oldest places and institutions in Pakistan are more than just relics — they are living symbols of the country’s rich and diverse heritage. From ancient ruins to colonial-era institutions, these historical landmarks tell the story of a land that has endured through millennia and continues to evolve with pride.
Pakistan is not only a country of great historical and cultural significance but also a land of remarkable records and natural extremes. From hosting the world’s highest mountain ranges to preserving some of the oldest civilizations, the diversity of “firsts,” “largest,” “tallest,” and other superlatives showcases the vast richness and depth of the nation.
These unique records reflect Pakistan’s environmental beauty, architectural achievements, historical milestones, and scientific accomplishments. They serve as a testament to the country’s potential and its importance on the global stage.
By highlighting these fascinating facts, we celebrate the pride of the nation and invite the world to explore the wonders that make Pakistan truly one of a kind.