Rawalpindi: The Heartbeat of Pakistan's Heritage

• Helloآداب
  [Aadaab]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [Khuda Hafiz]
• Yesہاں
  [Haan]
• Noنہیں
  [Nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم
  [Barah-e-karam]
• Thank youشکریہ
  [Shukriya]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کیجیے
  [Maaf kijiye]
• How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [Aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
  [Theek hoon. Aap?]
• Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap angrezi boltay hain?]
• I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آئی
  [Mujhe samajh nahi aayi]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
  [Barah-e-karam menu dekhna chahta hoon]
• I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [Main gosht nahi khaata]
• Cheers!چیرز!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادا کرنا چاہتا ہوں
  [Barah-e-karam ada karna chahta hoon]

• Help!مدد!
  [Madad!]
• Go away!چلے جاؤ!
  [Chale jao!]
• Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
  [Police ko bulao!]
• Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
  [Doctor ko bulao!]
• I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
  [Main gum ho gaya hoon]
• I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [Main bimar hoon]

• I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
  [Main khareedna chahta hoon...]
• I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
  [Main sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?یہ کتنا ہے؟
  [Ye kitna hai?]
• That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [Ye bohat mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
  [Waqt kya hua hai?]
• It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [Ek bajay hain]
• Half past (10)دس بج کر بیس منٹ ہو گئے ہیں
  [Das baj kar bees minute ho gaye hain]
• Morningصبح
  [Subah]
• Afternoonدوپہر
  [Dopahar]
• Eveningشام
  [Shaam]
• Yesterdayکل
  [Kal]
• Todayآج
  [Aaj]
• Tomorrowکل کو
  [Kal ko]
• 1ایک
  [Ek]
• 2دو
  [Do]
• 3تین
  [Teen]
• 4چار
  [Cha-ar]
• 5پانچ
  [Paanch]
• 6چھے
  [Chhay]
• 7سات
  [Saat]
• 8آٹھ
  [Aath]
• 9نو
  [No]
• 10دس
  [Das]

• Where's a/the...?...کہاں ہے؟
  [...Kahan hai?]
• What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [Pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain?]
• When's the next (bus)?اگلی گاڑی کب آئے گی؟
  [Agli gari kab aayegi?]
• A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (سے .... تک)
  [Ek ticket (se .... tak)]

Rawalpindi's history can be traced back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited during the Buddhist era, around 600 B.C. The city was named after Rawal, a local leader who founded the settlement. The word 'Pindi' means 'village' in Punjabi, reflecting its origins as a small community.

During the 1st to 5th centuries, Rawalpindi was part of the flourishing Gandhara civilization, which was renowned for its art, culture, and learning. The nearby Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was one of the most prominent centers of Buddhism and home to the ancient world's oldest university.

In the 11th century, Rawalpindi came under the control of the Ghaznavid Empire after the conquests of Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni. This period marked the beginning of Islamic influence in the region, which would shape its culture and architecture for centuries to come.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Rawalpindi became an important city under the Mughal Empire. The Mughals established administrative and military structures, contributing to the city's strategic importance. The remnants of Mughal architecture and gardens still add to the city's historical landscape.

Rawalpindi came under Sikh rule in the early 19th century when Maharaja Ranjit Singh's forces captured the area. In 1849, following the Second Anglo-Sikh War, the British East India Company annexed Rawalpindi. The British built a cantonment here, making it a key military outpost. This era saw significant infrastructural development, including the establishment of railways and modern roads.

The partition of India in 1947 was a pivotal moment in Rawalpindi's history. As the newly formed Pakistan gained independence, Rawalpindi saw an influx of refugees from India, reshaping its demographic and cultural landscape. The city played a crucial role during the early years of Pakistan's formation.

Post-independence, Rawalpindi emerged as a major military hub for Pakistan. It houses the headquarters of the Pakistan Army and several other key military installations. This has cemented its status as a city of strategic significance in Pakistan's defense infrastructure.

Today, Rawalpindi is a blend of historical heritage and modern urban development. The city is known for its vibrant bazaars, traditional crafts, and cultural festivals. Sites like Raja Bazaar, Saddar, and the historic Liaquat Bagh are testament to its rich cultural tapestry, while modern institutions and amenities reflect its growth and development.

Rawalpindi is well-connected both internationally and domestically. The nearest international airport is Islamabad International Airport, located about 25 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, hire a private car, or use ride-sharing services to reach Rawalpindi. For domestic travelers, Rawalpindi is accessible via a comprehensive network of trains and buses from major cities across Pakistan.

Once in Rawalpindi, you have several options for getting around. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also available. For short distances, you can use local buses and minibuses, though they can be crowded. Renting a car is another option if you prefer more freedom and flexibility. The city's main railway station offers convenient train connections to other parts of Pakistan, and the Metro Bus Service offers an efficient route to Islamabad.

The official currency of Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and in less urban areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Rawalpindi, and currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major commercial areas.

Rawalpindi is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or less crowded areas. Areas like Raja Bazaar can be crowded and are best visited during the day. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy markets and public transport. It's advisable to consult local news and updates for any travel advisories.

In case of an emergency, dial 15 for police assistance and 1122 for medical emergencies and rescue services. Major hospitals like Holy Family Hospital and Benazir Bhutto Hospital are well-equipped to handle medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are commonly found throughout the city for any minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Use 'As-Salaam-Alaikum' as a greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Rawalpindi like a local, visit the local markets such as Raja Bazaar and Saddar Bazaar where you can buy everything from fresh produce to traditional Pakistani goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the historical sites like the Rawat Fort and the ancient Hindu temple complex of Katas Raj. For a unique experience, take a stroll in Ayub National Park, which offers beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.