Rawalpindi – Punjab

Rawalpindi

Welcome to Rawalpindi, a city rich in history, culture, and modern amenities. Often referred to as Pindi, it stands as the capital of Rawalpindi Division and forms a crucial part of Pakistan’s twin cities along with Islamabad. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Rawalpindi, from its weather and landmarks to its educational institutions and transportation options.

History of Rawalpindi

History of Rawalpindi

Ancient and Medieval Periods

Rawalpindi’s history dates back to ancient times, linked to the Gandhara civilization. It was a significant region for Buddhism, evident from the ruins in nearby Taxila. During the medieval period, it was destroyed and rebuilt several times, notably by Mahmud of Ghazni and the Mongols.

Mughal Period

The Mughal era brought stability and development to Rawalpindi. Important structures like the Rawat Fort were built, and the city became a strategic administrative center. Mughal emperors, including Akbar and Jehangir, visited the city, further enhancing its prestige.

Sikh Rule and British Colonial Period

Under Sikh rule, Rawalpindi saw significant developments, including infrastructure and trade enhancements. The British colonial period further accelerated its growth, establishing Rawalpindi as a major military cantonment and administrative hub. The introduction of railways and telegraph offices marked a new era of connectivity and modernization.

Post-Partition Era

After the partition of India in 1947, Rawalpindi experienced significant demographic changes, becoming a critical military headquarters for Pakistan. The assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan, Pakistan’s first Prime Minister, in Rawalpindi, highlighted its political significance. The city’s development continued alongside Islamabad, making it a vital urban center.

Geography and Climate

Geography and Climate

Geography

Rawalpindi is situated on the Pothohar Plateau, surrounded by picturesque hills and natural beauty. The city is part of the Islamabad-Rawalpindi metropolitan area, with the Margalla Hills to the north and the Pothohar Plateau on the other three sides.

Climate

Rawalpindi features a humid subtropical climate (Köppen: Cwa) with hot, wet summers and cooler, drier winters. The city, along with its twin city Islamabad, experiences an average of 91 thunderstorms annually, the highest frequency of any plain elevation city in Pakistan. Windstorms during the summer can be strong, with wind gusts reaching up to 176 km/h (109 mph), causing some infrastructure damage.

The average annual rainfall in Rawalpindi is 1,254.8 mm (49.40 in), most of which occurs during the summer monsoon season, though significant rainfall also occurs in winter due to westerly disturbances. The record maximum temperature was 47.7 °C (118 °F) in June 1954, while the record minimum temperature dropped to −3.9 °C (25 °F) in January 1967.

MonthRecord High °C (°F)Mean Daily Max °C (°F)Daily Mean °C (°F)Mean Daily Min °C (°F)Record Low °C (°F)Average Precipitation mm (in)Average Precipitation Days
January30.1 (86.2)17.9 (64.2)10.6 (51.1)3.2 (37.8)−3.9 (25.0)67.1 (2.64)5
February30 (86)19.7 (67.5)12.9 (55.2)6 (43)−2.7 (27.1)84.1 (3.31)6
March34.5 (94.1)24.5 (76.1)17.6 (63.7)10.7 (51.3)1.1 (34.0)92.4 (3.64)6
April40.6 (105.1)30.5 (86.9)23.2 (73.8)15.8 (60.4)5.0 (41.0)63.2 (2.49)5
May45.6 (114.1)36 (97)28.4 (83.1)20.7 (69.3)6.1 (43.0)34.1 (1.34)4
June46.6 (115.9)38.4 (101.1)31.1 (88.0)23.7 (74.7)15.5 (59.9)75.3 (2.96)6
July44.4 (111.9)35.3 (95.5)29.9 (85.8)24.4 (75.9)17.2 (63.0)305.3 (12.02)15
August42 (108)33.7 (92.7)28.8 (83.8)23.8 (74.8)17.2 (63.0)340.3 (13.40)17
September38.1 (100.6)33.7 (92.7)27.4 (81.3)21.1 (70.0)11.6 (52.9)110.7 (4.36)7
October37.5 (99.5)30.9 (87.6)22.7 (72.9)14.5 (58.1)5.5 (41.9)31.7 (1.25)2
November32.2 (90.0)25.9 (78.6)17.1 (62.8)8.3 (46.9)−0.5 (31.1)14.4 (0.57)2
December28.3 (82.9)20.2 (68.4)12.3 (54.1)4.3 (39.7)−2.8 (27.0)36.2 (1.43)3
Year46.6 (115.9)28.9 (84.0)21.8 (71.3)14.7 (58.5)−3.9 (25.0)1,254.8 (49.41)78

Government and Administration

Government and Administration Pakistan

Rawalpindi is governed by multiple administrative bodies, ensuring law and order, infrastructure development, and public services. The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board plays a significant role in managing the city’s cantonment areas.

Economy

Rawalpindi’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from trade, logistics, and the service sector. The city’s strategic location as a transportation hub boosts its economic activity.

Major Markets and Commerce

Rawalpindi boasts vibrant markets like Raja Bazar and Saddar, offering everything from electronics to traditional handicrafts. The city’s commercial centers are bustling with activity, attracting shoppers from across the region.

Transportation

Transport TypeDescription
Road and Motorway NetworkRawalpindi is well-connected by road, with major highways and motorways like the M-1 and M-2 linking it to other cities. Public transportation options, including buses and taxis, are readily available.
Railways and Air TravelThe Rawalpindi Railway Station is a crucial node in Pakistan’s rail network, providing connectivity to various parts of the country. Benazir Bhutto International Airport serves the city, facilitating air travel.
Public TransportationThe city offers various public transportation options, making it easy for residents and visitors to get around.
Rawalpindi StationA hub of activity, the station connects Rawalpindi to major cities.
Rawalpindi Railway Station Contact NumberFor inquiries, you can reach out to the station’s contact number.
Rawalpindi Daewoo Contact NumberDaewoo offers convenient intercity bus services, and you can contact them for schedules and bookings.

Education

Rawalpindi is home to numerous educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities. The city has a rich tradition of academic excellence, with historical centers of learning like Taxila nearby.

Notable Institutions

  • Rawalpindi Institute of Urology
  • Rawalpindi Women University Student Portal: A platform for students to access academic resources and information.

Culture and Society

Rawalpindi’s culture is a blend of traditional and modern influences. The city celebrates various festivals, and its residents enjoy a diverse range of cuisines, attire, and cultural practices.

Modern Lifestyle

The influence of Islamabad is evident in Rawalpindi’s suburban housing developments and lifestyle amenities. The city offers a range of recreational activities, shopping areas, and dining options.

Tourism and Attractions

Rawat Fort

Historical Sites

Rawalpindi is rich in historical sites, including the Rawat Fort and Buddhist ruins in Taxila. These attractions offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

Recreational Spots

  • Rawalpindi Jinnah Park: A popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.
  • Rawalpindi Golf Club: Offers excellent facilities for golf lovers.

Rawalpindi Today

Rawalpindi Today

Rawalpindi Prayer Time and Namaz Time

Today, July 11, 2024, the prayer times in Rawalpindi are as follows:

  • Fajr Time: 3:25 AM
  • Dhuhr Time: 12:13 PM
  • Asr Time: 5:12 PM
  • Maghrib Time: 7:20 PM
  • Isha Time: 9:01 PM

These timings are based on the Islamic Date of 04 Muharram 1446. You can find the schedule for the next 7 days and 30 days for Rawalpindi salah or Namaz times.

Next 30 Days Rawalpindi Prayer Times

DateFajrSunriseDhuhrAsrMaghribIsha
Jul 113:25 AM5:06 AM12:13 PM5:12 PM7:20 PM9:01 PM
Jul 123:26 AM5:07 AM12:13 PM5:11 PM7:20 PM9:01 PM
Jul 133:27 AM5:07 AM12:14 PM5:11 PM7:19 PM9:00 PM
Jul 143:28 AM5:08 AM12:14 PM5:11 PM7:19 PM8:59 PM
Jul 153:29 AM5:09 AM12:14 PM5:11 PM7:19 PM8:59 PM
Jul 163:29 AM5:09 AM12:14 PM5:11 PM7:18 PM8:58 PM
Jul 173:30 AM5:10 AM12:14 PM5:11 PM7:18 PM8:57 PM
Jul 183:31 AM5:11 AM12:14 PM5:11 PM7:17 PM8:56 PM
Jul 193:32 AM5:11 AM12:14 PM5:10 PM7:17 PM8:56 PM
Jul 203:33 AM5:12 AM12:14 PM5:10 PM7:16 PM8:55 PM
Jul 213:34 AM5:13 AM12:14 PM5:10 PM7:16 PM8:54 PM
Jul 223:35 AM5:13 AM12:14 PM5:10 PM7:15 PM8:53 PM
Jul 233:36 AM5:14 AM12:14 PM5:09 PM7:14 PM8:52 PM
Jul 243:37 AM5:15 AM12:14 PM5:09 PM7:14 PM8:51 PM
Jul 253:38 AM5:15 AM12:14 PM5:09 PM7:13 PM8:50 PM
Jul 263:39 AM5:16 AM12:14 PM5:09 PM7:12 PM8:49 PM
Jul 273:40 AM5:17 AM12:14 PM5:08 PM7:12 PM8:48 PM
Jul 283:41 AM5:17 AM12:14 PM5:08 PM7:11 PM8:47 PM
Jul 293:42 AM5:18 AM12:14 PM5:07 PM7:10 PM8:46 PM
Jul 303:43 AM5:19 AM12:14 PM5:07 PM7:09 PM8:45 PM
Jul 313:44 AM5:19 AM12:14 PM5:07 PM7:08 PM8:44 PM
Aug 013:45 AM5:20 AM12:14 PM5:06 PM7:08 PM8:42 PM
Aug 023:46 AM5:21 AM12:14 PM5:06 PM7:07 PM8:41 PM
Aug 033:47 AM5:22 AM12:14 PM5:05 PM7:06 PM8:40 PM
Aug 043:48 AM5:22 AM12:14 PM5:05 PM7:05 PM8:39 PM
Aug 053:49 AM5:23 AM12:14 PM5:04 PM7:04 PM8:38 PM
Aug 063:50 AM5:24 AM12:14 PM5:04 PM7:03 PM8:36 PM
Aug 073:51 AM5:24 AM12:13 PM5:03 PM7:02 PM8:35 PM
Aug 083:52 AM5:25 AM12:13 PM5:02 PM7:01 PM8:34 PM

Rawalpindi Iftar Time during Ramadan is at 7:20 PM, and Rawalpindi Sehri Time (pre-dawn meal) is at 3:25 AM.

Rawalpindi Azan Time for today:

  • Fajr Azan Time: 3:25 AM
  • Dhuhr Azan Time: 12:13 PM
  • Asr Azan Time: 5:12 PM
  • Maghrib Azan Time: 7:20 PM
  • Isha Azan Time: 9:01 PM

Real Estate.

Real Estate

Rawalpindi has a thriving real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, the city offers numerous options:

Public Services

ServiceLocation
Rawalpindi Passport OfficeBakery Chowk, Railway Carriage Factory Rd, Railway Scheme 7, Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi Traffic Police Driving Licensing OfficeMain Peshawar Rd, Westridge 2, Rawalpindi

Health and Recreation

FacilityLocation
Rawalpindi HospitalA Block, 57A Iran Rd, Block A Satellite Town, Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi Swimming PoolBlue Horizon, opp. Askari Club, DHA-4 Askari 14, Rawalpindi

Dining and Shopping

FacilityDescription
Rawalpindi RestaurantThe Monal Rawalpindi, Aseel Shinwari Restaurant, Mei Kong
Rawalpindi Food StreetFood Street Saddar Rawalpindi, Food Street Shamsabad Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi is a city that seamlessly blends historical significance with modern growth. From its rich history and diverse culture to its robust economy and vibrant lifestyle, Rawalpindi offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to understand and appreciate this dynamic city.

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