Pakistan is a fascinating country in southern Asia, full of rich culture and diversity. To understand more about this amazing place, it’s important to learn about its different regions, called administrative units. Let’s explore these areas, their capitals, and why they are special!
On the eastern side of Pakistan is Azad Jammu and Kashmir, an area that governs itself. The capital city here is Muzaffarabad, which is the main place for government activities and administration.
Up in the north, you’ll find Gilgit-Baltistan, another self-governing region. It borders China, Afghanistan, and Jammu and Kashmir. The capital city is Gilgit, famous for its breathtaking views and tall mountains.
Balochistan is the biggest province in Pakistan, reaching all the way to the Arabian Sea. Its capital is Quetta, a city important for its role in the province’s government and culture.
Next to Afghanistan is Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a significant province. It includes areas known as the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), which have their own special way of governing. The capital city is Peshawar, a place rich in history.
Punjab is one of the most crowded provinces in Pakistan and shares a border with India. The capital, Lahore, is known for its lively culture and historical importance.
In the south of Pakistan is Sindh, famous for its lovely beaches along the Arabian Sea. The capital city is Karachi, which is also the largest city in Pakistan and a key economic hub.
Finally, Islamabad is the federal territory and the capital city of Pakistan. Known for its modern buildings and green parks, it stands out as a unique administrative center in the country.
Pakistan is a country with a wonderful mix of provinces and territories, each adding to its unique identity. From the self-governing regions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan to the busy cities of Karachi and Lahore, learning about these areas helps us appreciate the diversity and culture of Pakistan.
Map Exploration Activity: Create a simple map of Pakistan using a large piece of paper or a poster board. Label each region and its capital city. Use different colors for each region to make it visually appealing. As you label each area, discuss with your classmates or family members what makes each region special. You can also draw or paste pictures of famous landmarks or cultural symbols from each region.
Culture and Cuisine Exploration: Choose one region of Pakistan and research its traditional food. With the help of an adult, try to prepare a simple dish from that region. Share the dish with your family or friends and talk about how the food reflects the culture and geography of the region. For example, you might explore the spicy flavors of Sindh or the hearty dishes of Punjab.
Story Time with History: Write a short story or draw a comic strip about a day in the life of a child living in one of Pakistan’s regions. Think about what their daily activities might include, what language they might speak, and what games they might play. Share your story with your class or family and discuss how life might be similar or different from your own.
