The Mall - Rawalpindi's Historic and Cultural Hub

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [khuda hafiz]
• Yesہاں
  [haan]
• Noنہیں
  [nahin]
• Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم
  [baraah karam]
• Thank youشکریہ
  [shukriya]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کریں
  [maaf karein]
• 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 آیا
  [mujhe samajh nahi aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
  [baraah karam menu dekhna chahta hoon]
• I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [mein gosht nahi khata]
• Cheers!صحت
  [sehat]
• I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادا کرنا چاہتا ہوں
  [baraah 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 ہوگیا ہوں
  [mein gum hogaya hoon]
• I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [mein beemar hoon]

• I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
  [mein khareedna chahta hoon...]
• I'm just lookingمیں بس دیکھنا ہوں
  [mein bas dekhna hoon]
• How much is it?یہ کتنے کا ہے؟
  [yeh kitne ka hai?]
• That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [yeh bohat mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
  [waqt kya hua hai?]
• It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [aik bajay hain]
• Half past (10)دس بجے نصف ہو چکے ہیں
  [das bajay nisf ho chuke hain]
• Morningصبح
  [subah]
• Afternoonدوپہر
  [dopehar]
• Eveningشام
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayگذشتہ کل
  [guzishta kal]
• Todayآج
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowکل
  [kal]
• 1ایک
  [aik]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3تین
  [teen]
• 4چار
  [chaar]
• 5پانچ
  [paanch]
• 6چھے
  [chhe]
• 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)?اگلا کب ہے؟
  [agla kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (سے .... تک)
  [aik ticket (se .... tak)]

The Mall in Rawalpindi began to take shape during the British colonial period in the 19th century. As the British established Rawalpindi as a key military garrison, The Mall became a central avenue for both administrative and social activities. The colonial architecture that lines the street reflects the influence of British design, with buildings that served as offices, clubs, and residences for officials and their families.

Post-independence, The Mall evolved into a bustling commercial centre. The establishment of various shops, markets, and eateries turned The Mall into a focal point for trade and social gatherings in Rawalpindi. This transformation was crucial for the local economy and contributed to the cultural tapestry of the area, blending traditional Pakistani commerce with modern retail.

The Mall is home to several significant landmarks, including the Rawalpindi Arts Council and the Liaquat Bagh, a public park named after Liaquat Ali Khan, the first Prime Minister of Pakistan. These sites not only serve recreational purposes but also act as venues for cultural events, political rallies, and public gatherings, solidifying The Mall's role as a central space for civic life in Rawalpindi.

In the 21st century, The Mall has seen extensive urban development and modernization efforts. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure and promote tourism, while still preserving the historical character of the area. The integration of modern amenities alongside heritage sites illustrates the ongoing evolution of Rawalpindi as a vibrant urban centre.

The Mall has been a site for numerous historical events, including political demonstrations and celebrations. Its strategic location made it a prime venue for mobilizing citizens during pivotal moments in Pakistan's history, reflecting the neighborhood's deep-rooted connection to the nation's political landscape.

The Mall is centrally located in Rawalpindi and is easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you are coming from Saddar, you can take a short taxi ride or a rickshaw, which typically costs around 100-150 PKR. From the Benazir Bhutto International Airport, a taxi can get you to The Mall in approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Local buses also operate routes that connect The Mall to other areas, including the bustling markets of Raja Bazaar.

The Mall is best explored on foot, as many attractions, shops, and eateries are within walking distance. Local buses and rickshaws are also readily available for longer distances. The Rawalpindi Metrobus system connects The Mall to various parts of the city, providing an efficient mode of transport. Bicycles can be rented from nearby locations for those who prefer a more active way to navigate the area.

The Mall area is generally safe for tourists, but it's always prudent to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less crowded side streets. Areas like the nearby Raja Bazaar can be crowded and have petty theft; keep your belongings secure. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in busy markets.

In case of emergencies, dial 15 for police assistance, 1122 for ambulance services, or visit the nearest hospital. There are several hospitals and clinics in Rawalpindi, including the Holy Family Hospital. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; refrain from taking pictures in mosques without permission. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly or women; don’t eat or drink while using public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'As-Salaam-Alaikum' and a handshake; don’t engage in overly familiar greetings with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food, but ensure it’s from reputable vendors; don’t drink tap water, opt for bottled water instead.

To experience The Mall like a local, visit the various street food stalls in the evenings to taste authentic Pakistani dishes. Engage with local shopkeepers, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the area. Don’t miss the historical sites nearby, such as the Rawalpindi Railway Station and the beautiful Liaquat Bagh. Lastly, be sure to try some local sweets from the shops along The Mall.