Islamabad Map

Description:

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Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan, located in the northern part of the country. Established in the 1960s to replace Karachi as the nation's capital, it was designed by Greek architect Constantinos Doxiadis. The city serves as the seat of the federal government and houses all major political institutions, including the Parliament House, Supreme Court, and diplomatic missions.

The city covers an area of 906.5 square kilometers and sits at an elevation ranging from 457 to 610 meters above sea level. Islamabad experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The Margalla Hills, which are a part of the Lesser Himalayas, form a scenic backdrop to the city and provide numerous recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Notable landmarks in the city include the Faisal Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in South Asia and can accommodate up to 100,000 worshippers. The mosque's distinctive architecture, featuring a contemporary design inspired by Bedouin tents, was conceived by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay. Another significant attraction is the Pakistan Monument, a flower-shaped structure that symbolizes the four provinces and three territories of Pakistan.

Islamabad is divided into various sectors, each designated by a letter and number combination, following a grid system. The city is known for its well-planned infrastructure, wide boulevards, and abundant green spaces. The Daman-e-Koh viewpoint offers panoramic views of the entire city, while the Shakarparian Hills feature cultural complexes and museums. The Lok Virsa Museum showcases Pakistan's cultural heritage through exhibits of traditional crafts, textiles, and musical instruments.

The city is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Quaid-i-Azam University and the National University of Sciences and Technology. The Islamabad Zoo, Lake View Park, and the artificial Rawal Lake provide recreational facilities for residents. The modern Centaurus Mall and various markets in different sectors serve the shopping needs of the population.

According to recent estimates, Islamabad has a population of approximately 1.1 million people, making it one of Pakistan's smaller major cities. However, together with its twin city Rawalpindi, the metropolitan area houses over 2.4 million inhabitants. The city maintains a relatively high standard of living compared to other Pakistani cities and has one of the highest literacy rates in the country.

The Facts:
Administrative unit: Islamabad Capital Territory.
Population: ~ 1,108,872 (2023 census).
Metropolitan population: 2,370,000.