Fact 1: The Land of Pure
Did you know that the name 'Pakistan' comes from the Urdu language and translates to 'The Land of Pure'? This epitomizes the ideals and dreams of the nation's founding fathers, who sought to create a pure land where different faiths could live harmoniously.
Fact 2: Seventh-largest Pool of Scientists and Engineers
Surprisingly, Pakistan holds the seventh-largest pool of scientists and engineers in the world. The country's technical expertise plays a significant role in its development and progress.
Fact 3: World’s First PC Virus was Created by Two Pakistani Brothers
Two Pakistani brothers, Basit Farooq Alvi and Amjad Farooq Alvi, invented the world's first-ever PC virus in 1986. They developed it to protect their medical software from piracy, and it was named 'Brain.'
Fact 4: Highest Polo Ground in the World
Known as the 'Roof of the World,' Shandur Top in the Gilgit-Baltistan region hosts the world's highest Polo ground. The Shandur Polo Festival held here annually is a purveyor of attraction for not just locals, but international tourists as well.
Fact 5: Fourth Smartest People in the World
A poll by the Institute of European Business Administration ranked Pakistanis as the fourth most intelligent people globally. Needless to say, the country is home to some of the most exceptional minds.
Fact 6: Asia's Highest Railway Station
The credit for having Asia's highest railway station goes to none other than Pakistan. Located in Balochistan, the Kan Mehtarzai railway station is situated 2,224 meters above sea level.
Fact 7: Land of Some of the Oldest Civilizations
Pakistan is home to some of the world's oldest civilizations, including the Bronze Age Indus Valley Civilization. The ruins of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa stand testament to this history, with settlements dating back to 2400 BCE.
Fact 8: Country with the Most Irrigation Systems
With its extensive network of dams and other infrastructural advancements, Pakistan has one of the world’s largest irrigation systems. It helps the agricultural sector immensely and plays a pivotal role in the country's economy.
Fact 9: First Islamic Country to Attain Nuclear Power
Pakistan marked its credibility in scientific advancement by becoming the first Islamic country to achieve nuclear power. It exhibits their technical capabilities and the nation's defense strength.
Fact 10: World's Largest Salt Mines
Pakistan houses the second-largest salt mines globally, the Khewra Salt Mines. They are a major tourist attraction, producing around 350,000 tons of salt per annum.
Fact 11: World’s Largest Volunteer Ambulance Organization
The Edhi Foundation, headquartered in Karachi, is the world's largest volunteer ambulance organization. It continues to provide humanitarian assistance not only in Pakistan but across the globe.
Fact 12: Youngest Certified Microsoft Technology Specialists
Demonstrating their exceptional intellect, Pakistani children hold the record for being the world's youngest Microsoft Certified Technology Specialists. Arfa Karim and Babar Iqbal are well-renowned names in this regard.
Fact 13: Home to the World's Highest Paved International Road
The Karakoram Highway, known as the eighth wonder of the world, is the world's highest paved international road. It offers stunning views and serves as a popular tourist route.
Fact 14: Largest Producer of Hand-Sewn Footballs
The city of Sialkot in Pakistan is renowned worldwide for producing the highest number of hand-sewn footballs. The industry produces about 60 million footballs a year, which is roughly 70% of the total world production.
Fact 15: A Country with Unique Lakes
Pakistan houses two unique lakes, Ansoo Lake and Red Lake. Ansoo Lake resembles a teardrop, while Red Lake changes colors throughout the day.
Fact 16: Rich in Natural Beauty
Pakistan possesses an abundance of natural beauty, including the second highest peak in the world, K2. The country's northern areas, adorned with captivating mountains and lakes, are a haven for tourists.
Fact 17: The First Asian Country to Launch a Cable Car System
Pakistan was the first Asian country to launch a cable car system. The Chairlift at Patriata, New Murree, is a significant tourist attraction offering breathtaking views.
Fact 18: Land of Nobel Laureates
Proudly, Pakistan is home to two Nobel laureates - physicist Dr. Abdus Salam and social activist Malala Yousafzai. Both secured the award for their exceptional contributions to society.
Fact 19: World's Largest Deep-Sea Port
Gwadar Port in Pakistan is considered the world's largest deep-sea port. Strategically vital, the port holds immense importance for international trade and commerce.
Fact 20: One of the World’s Largest Manmade Forests
Pakistan claims one of the world's largest manmade forests - Changa Manga. Spanning over 12,000 acres, it was primarily planted in the 19th century to supply wood to the railway. Today, it's a thriving eco-tourism spot.