Quetta is also spelled Kuwatah which is a variation of Kot, a Pashto word meaning fortress. It is surrounded by four grand hills, Murdaar, Zarghoon, Takatu and Chiltan, that form a natural rampart, almost acting as guards around the city. Quetta is the the Capital of Balochistan province and even though authorities have failed to develop it like they should have, Quetta remains one of the most significant and historic cities in Pakistan.
1. Size and Significance
It is the largest and capital city of the Balochistan province with an an area of 2,653 sqkm. Population of the city is estimated to be approximately one million.
2. The history of Quetta dates back to at-least the 11th Century, when it was captured by Mahmud of Ghaznavi.
3. Fruit Garden of Pakistan.
Known as the Fruit Garden of Pakistan due to the diversity of its plant and animal wildlife,
4. Quetta is internationally known for its quality dry fruit product.
Supreme Quality Of Dry Fruits In Pakistan
5. Quetta the high-altitude city.
Quetta is situated at an average elevation of 1,680 meters (5,500 ft) above sea level, making it Pakistan’s only high-altitude major city.
6. Wildlife of Quetta
There are a variety of fauna in and around the city including coyotes, markhor, hyenas, leopards, wolves, golden eagles and the bearded vulture.
7. The gallant Sulaiman Range
Lies in the east of Quetta
8. The esteemed Bolan Medical College
It was founded during Ataullah Mengal’s reign as Chief Minister in 1972.
9. Hanna Lake
A turquoise body of water, is snuggled in the hills, ten kilometers east of the city.
10. Quetta Airport
It is the second highest airport in Pakistan
11. Quetta Railway Station
It is one of the highest railway stations in Pakistan at 1,676 meters (5,499 feet) above sea level.
12. University of Balochistan
It is situated in Quetta, was established in June 1970 and comprises an area of 200 acres
13. Hayat Durrani Water Sports Academy
It is the only water sports training center in Balochistan
14. The Hazarganji Chiltan National Park. Hazarganji
literally meaning “of a thousand treasures” is located 20 km south-west of Quetta. The park covers an area over 32,500 acres, at an altitude ranging from 2,021 to 3,264 meters.
15. Pir Ghaib
It is a waterfall and picnic spot located 70 km from the Quetta City in the historic Bolan valley.
16. Manan Chowk and Shah Jahan Chowk
These are the famous chowks of Quetta.
17. Buzkashi
The national sport of Afghanistan is also played here by the Pashtuns.
18. The famous bazaars of Quetta
It includes the Liaquat Bazaar, Suraj Gang Bazaar and Kandhari Bazaar
19. The Quetta Museum
The Quetta Geological Museum, The Quetta Archaeological Museum and The Command and Staff College Museum are formed by British.
20. Taste of Quetta
Quetta is home to some of the finest cuisine in Pakistan. Kadi Kebab and Lamb Roash, Balochi Kabab, Bolani, Balochi Sajji and Landhi.