Pakistan is located north of the Indian subcontinent between the Middle East, Central Asia and South Asia regions. Its area is around 796,000 sq km. Check out Pakistan photos to view the beautiful mountains, valleys, plains, deserts, forests and beaches.

The official name of Pakistan is the "Islamic Republic of Pakistan". Pakistan means "Land of the Pure" in Urdu language.

Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan and Karachi is the largest and main city. Other main cities in Pakistan include Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Hyderabad, Multan, Quetta and Sialkot.

The major sector in Pakistan economy is the services sector, as well as agriculture, tourism and other minor industries. Tourism in Pakistan is a growing sector. Lots of tourists visit Pakistan for its diverse cultures, natural landscapes and ruins of ancient civilisations.

Throughout history, Pakistan (Indus Valley region) was a part of numerous empires and dynasties who have left a wealth of religious sites and historic ruins such as Lahore Fort and the famous Alamgiri Gate, Takht-i-Bahi Buddhist monastery, Jahangir tomb, Badshahi Masjid and Faisal Mosque. Also, the ruins of Mohenjo Daro, Harappa, Taxila and Thatta.

Pakistan has many natural sites, including the Himalayan hills, K2 mountain (2nd highest summit), Baltoro Glacier, Juniper Shaft, Mughall and Mangocher caves, Hingol Park, Kirthar Park, Khunjerab Park, Deosai Park, Shalimar Gardens, Hunza and Chitral valleys.

The population of Pakistan is over 187 millions (6th most populated country in the world). Main languages are Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtu, Balochi, English and other local languages.

Pakistani cuisine is hot and spicy. Spices and rice are the main ingredients of every dish. National pakistani dishes include tandoori, biryani, chapatis and parathas.

Pakistan culture is famous for the traditional Pakistani music, arts, literature, poetry and architecture.