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
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
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.
| Month | Record 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 |
| January | 30.1 (86.2) | 17.9 (64.2) | 10.6 (51.1) | 3.2 (37.8) | −3.9 (25.0) | 67.1 (2.64) | 5 |
| February | 30 (86) | 19.7 (67.5) | 12.9 (55.2) | 6 (43) | −2.7 (27.1) | 84.1 (3.31) | 6 |
| March | 34.5 (94.1) | 24.5 (76.1) | 17.6 (63.7) | 10.7 (51.3) | 1.1 (34.0) | 92.4 (3.64) | 6 |
| April | 40.6 (105.1) | 30.5 (86.9) | 23.2 (73.8) | 15.8 (60.4) | 5.0 (41.0) | 63.2 (2.49) | 5 |
| May | 45.6 (114.1) | 36 (97) | 28.4 (83.1) | 20.7 (69.3) | 6.1 (43.0) | 34.1 (1.34) | 4 |
| June | 46.6 (115.9) | 38.4 (101.1) | 31.1 (88.0) | 23.7 (74.7) | 15.5 (59.9) | 75.3 (2.96) | 6 |
| July | 44.4 (111.9) | 35.3 (95.5) | 29.9 (85.8) | 24.4 (75.9) | 17.2 (63.0) | 305.3 (12.02) | 15 |
| August | 42 (108) | 33.7 (92.7) | 28.8 (83.8) | 23.8 (74.8) | 17.2 (63.0) | 340.3 (13.40) | 17 |
| September | 38.1 (100.6) | 33.7 (92.7) | 27.4 (81.3) | 21.1 (70.0) | 11.6 (52.9) | 110.7 (4.36) | 7 |
| October | 37.5 (99.5) | 30.9 (87.6) | 22.7 (72.9) | 14.5 (58.1) | 5.5 (41.9) | 31.7 (1.25) | 2 |
| November | 32.2 (90.0) | 25.9 (78.6) | 17.1 (62.8) | 8.3 (46.9) | −0.5 (31.1) | 14.4 (0.57) | 2 |
| December | 28.3 (82.9) | 20.2 (68.4) | 12.3 (54.1) | 4.3 (39.7) | −2.8 (27.0) | 36.2 (1.43) | 3 |
| Year | 46.6 (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
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 Type | Description |
| Road and Motorway Network | Rawalpindi 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 Travel | The 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 Transportation | The city offers various public transportation options, making it easy for residents and visitors to get around. |
| Rawalpindi Station | A hub of activity, the station connects Rawalpindi to major cities. |
| Rawalpindi Railway Station Contact Number | For inquiries, you can reach out to the station’s contact number. |
| Rawalpindi Daewoo Contact Number | Daewoo 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
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 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
| Date | Fajr | Sunrise | Dhuhr | Asr | Maghrib | Isha |
| Jul 11 | 3:25 AM | 5:06 AM | 12:13 PM | 5:12 PM | 7:20 PM | 9:01 PM |
| Jul 12 | 3:26 AM | 5:07 AM | 12:13 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:20 PM | 9:01 PM |
| Jul 13 | 3:27 AM | 5:07 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:19 PM | 9:00 PM |
| Jul 14 | 3:28 AM | 5:08 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:19 PM | 8:59 PM |
| Jul 15 | 3:29 AM | 5:09 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:19 PM | 8:59 PM |
| Jul 16 | 3:29 AM | 5:09 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:18 PM | 8:58 PM |
| Jul 17 | 3:30 AM | 5:10 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:18 PM | 8:57 PM |
| Jul 18 | 3:31 AM | 5:11 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:11 PM | 7:17 PM | 8:56 PM |
| Jul 19 | 3:32 AM | 5:11 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:10 PM | 7:17 PM | 8:56 PM |
| Jul 20 | 3:33 AM | 5:12 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:10 PM | 7:16 PM | 8:55 PM |
| Jul 21 | 3:34 AM | 5:13 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:10 PM | 7:16 PM | 8:54 PM |
| Jul 22 | 3:35 AM | 5:13 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:10 PM | 7:15 PM | 8:53 PM |
| Jul 23 | 3:36 AM | 5:14 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:09 PM | 7:14 PM | 8:52 PM |
| Jul 24 | 3:37 AM | 5:15 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:09 PM | 7:14 PM | 8:51 PM |
| Jul 25 | 3:38 AM | 5:15 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:09 PM | 7:13 PM | 8:50 PM |
| Jul 26 | 3:39 AM | 5:16 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:09 PM | 7:12 PM | 8:49 PM |
| Jul 27 | 3:40 AM | 5:17 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:08 PM | 7:12 PM | 8:48 PM |
| Jul 28 | 3:41 AM | 5:17 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:08 PM | 7:11 PM | 8:47 PM |
| Jul 29 | 3:42 AM | 5:18 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:07 PM | 7:10 PM | 8:46 PM |
| Jul 30 | 3:43 AM | 5:19 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:07 PM | 7:09 PM | 8:45 PM |
| Jul 31 | 3:44 AM | 5:19 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:07 PM | 7:08 PM | 8:44 PM |
| Aug 01 | 3:45 AM | 5:20 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:06 PM | 7:08 PM | 8:42 PM |
| Aug 02 | 3:46 AM | 5:21 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:06 PM | 7:07 PM | 8:41 PM |
| Aug 03 | 3:47 AM | 5:22 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:05 PM | 7:06 PM | 8:40 PM |
| Aug 04 | 3:48 AM | 5:22 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:05 PM | 7:05 PM | 8:39 PM |
| Aug 05 | 3:49 AM | 5:23 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:04 PM | 7:04 PM | 8:38 PM |
| Aug 06 | 3:50 AM | 5:24 AM | 12:14 PM | 5:04 PM | 7:03 PM | 8:36 PM |
| Aug 07 | 3:51 AM | 5:24 AM | 12:13 PM | 5:03 PM | 7:02 PM | 8:35 PM |
| Aug 08 | 3:52 AM | 5:25 AM | 12:13 PM | 5:02 PM | 7:01 PM | 8:34 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.
Rawalpindi has a thriving real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, the city offers numerous options:
- Rawalpindi House for Rent
- Rawalpindi Rent House
- Houses for Sale in Islamabad
Public Services
| Service | Location |
| Rawalpindi Passport Office | Bakery Chowk, Railway Carriage Factory Rd, Railway Scheme 7, Rawalpindi |
| Rawalpindi Traffic Police Driving Licensing Office | Main Peshawar Rd, Westridge 2, Rawalpindi |
Health and Recreation
| Facility | Location |
| Rawalpindi Hospital | A Block, 57A Iran Rd, Block A Satellite Town, Rawalpindi |
| Rawalpindi Swimming Pool | Blue Horizon, opp. Askari Club, DHA-4 Askari 14, Rawalpindi |
Dining and Shopping
| Facility | Description |
| Rawalpindi Restaurant | The Monal Rawalpindi, Aseel Shinwari Restaurant, Mei Kong |
| Rawalpindi Food Street | Food 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.
