Punjab, Pakistan

Punjab is the second largest province at 205,344 km² (79,284 square miles) and has the largest population: approximately 70 million in 1994. The major language spoken in the Punjab is Punjabi, and likewise the largest ethnic group. The capital and main city of Punjab is Lahore, which has been the historical capital of the region. Many imporant Sikh shrines are in the Pakistani portion of Punjab, including the birthplace of the first Guru: Guru Nanak (born at Nankana Sahib). However, the population is now almost entirely Muslim.

The region contains the Thar and Cholistan deserts. The Indus river and it's many tributaries traverse the Punjab from north to south. The name Punjab means "five rivers," referring to the Indus, Ravi, Chenab, Sutlej and Jhelum rivers. Despite its dry climate, extensive irrigation makes it a rich agricultural region. Wheat and cotton are the largest crops. Other crops include rice, sugarcane, millet, corn, oilseeds, pulses, fruits, and vegetables. Livestock and poultry production are also important.

Punjab is one of the most industrialized states of Pakistan; its manufacturing industries produce textiles, machinery, electrical appliances, surgical instruments, metals, bicycles and rickshas, floor coverings, and processed foods.

Tourism: Taxila

Cities: Bahwalpur, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Rabwah, Sialkot

Referenced By