About Islamabad

Introduction

Islamabad is a purpose-built capital of Pakistan. It lies against the surroundings of the Margalla Hills at the northern end of the Pothowar Plateau. The city was built intentionally to serve as the capital city of Pakistan in 1960 by the orders of then President General Ayub Khan.
Islamabad is full of natural terraces,meadows, parks, and gardens. The southern plain is drained by the Kurang River with the Margalla Hills in the north east.

Capital of Pakistan
Population: 0.95 million approx.
Area: 910 sq. km
No. of Zones: 8

Area and Population

The city is divided into eight basic zones:
• Administrative
• Diplomatic Enclave
• Residential Areas
• Educational Sectors
• Industrial Sectors
• Commercial Areas
• Rural Areas

Each sector has its own shopping area and public park. The population of the city is around 9,50,000 people with an area of about 910 square kilometers. The city lies at latitudes 33° 49' north and longitudes 72° 24' east at an  altitude ranging from 457 to 610 meters.

Climate

It offers a healthy climate, pollution free atmosphere, plenty of water and lush green areas. It is a modern and carefully planned city with wide tree-lined streets, large houses elegant public buildings and well-organized bazaars/markets/shopping centers.
The average humidity level is 55% with an average rainfall of 1150 millimeters each year. The city has a moderate climate with four distinct seasons every year. The maximum average summer temperature is 29C going down to an average minimum of around 14C in winter.

Shah Faisal Mosque

The large Shah Faisal Mosque is superbly sited at the foot of the Margalla Hills. It represents an eight-faceted desert 'tent' supported on four giant concrete girders and surrounded by four 90-metre high concrete minuets. The central 'tent' is faced in white marble and decorated inside with mosaics and a spectacular chandelier.
The mosque was designed by the Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, and largely financed by donations from Saudi Arabia. It holds about 15,000 people inside, and another 85,000 in the courtyard.

Culture

Islamabad has a combination of different people from all over the world, and Pakistan. As similar to many other capitals of the world, Islamabad combines traditions of many areas and thus provides cultural opportunity for everyone. The markets and shopping areas clearly represent the theme of different cultures.