گاؤں (Gaon)
The concept of the village dates back to the Neolithic era when humans transitioned from hunter-gatherers to settled farmers. In Pakistan, villages are called deh or gaon and form the foundation of rural society.
According to the 2017 census, 63% of Pakistan’s population lives in rural areas, mostly in villages. The average village has 1,000–5,000 residents.
Villagers wake at dawn for Fajr prayer. Men head to fields; women manage homes and livestock. Children attend government schools. Evenings are for community gatherings at the dera (sitting area).
Common occupations: farming, cattle rearing, handicrafts, and small shops.
| Village | Location | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Kalash Valley | Chitral | Unique pagan culture |
| Shigar | Skardu | Cold desert, forts |
| Passu | Hunza | Cathedral peaks view |
| Ganish | Hunza | 1,000-year-old village |
Festivals include Urs of local saints, Basanth (kite flying), and harvest melas. Folk music like jhumar and luddi are performed.