Pakistan

Pakistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a country in South Asia. It is the world's fifth-most populous country, with a population exceeding 240 million. Pakistan is the 33rd-largest country by area, encompassing 881,913 square kilometers.

Pakistan has a diverse geography, ranging from arid deserts and sandy coastal beaches to mountains and fertile river valleys. It borders the Arabian Sea to the south, the Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan to the southeast, Punjab and Sindh to the east, Afghanistan to the northwest, Iran to the southwest, and the Chinese territory of Gilgit-Baltistan to the northeast. The country is divided into three major geographical areas: the northern highlands, the Balochistan Plateau, and the Indus River plain.

Pakistani culture is a rich blend of regional traditions, influenced by the Muslim heritage of South Asia, Iran, Central Asia, and various indigenous ethnic groups. Notable cultural expressions include Sufi music, Qawwali, classical dance, and intricate textile designs. The national language is Urdu, and English is also widely spoken. Islam is the state religion, and Islamic traditions play a significant role in daily life.

The history of Pakistan is deeply intertwined with the Indian subcontinent's past. It traces its origins to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's earliest urban cultures. The region later saw the rise and fall of various empires, including the Maurya, Gupta, Mughal, and British empires. Pakistan gained independence from British rule on August 14, 1947, following the partition of British India. Since its inception, the country has navigated periods of political instability, military rule, and democratic governance.

This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.