Understanding land measurement units is essential for anyone involved in real estate, agriculture, or property transactions in Pakistan. With various traditional and regional systems still in use—like Marla, Kanal, and square feet—confusion is common. That’s why we’ve created this simple, investor-friendly guide to help you easily understand land units, their conversions, and their role in real estate decisions.
Real estate investment has become a growing business in Pakistan. Most of the people are purchasing residential or commercial property. It’s important to know how to convert plot sizes. Various units are used across the country to measure land. These units can differ regionally. If you want to find out how many square feet there are in one marla or how to convert marla to square feet, then you are placed right, as this post will guide you.
- Common plot size units used in Pakistan
- Plot size conversion
- Tips to make the process easier
What is Land Measurement in Pakistan?
Land measurement in Pakistan refers to determining the exact size and dimensions of a plot or piece of land, including its length, width, and total area. The units used to measure land vary by region. For example, in cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and much of Punjab, traditional units like marla and kanal are commonly used. In contrast, areas like Karachi and other parts of Sindh typically use square yards and square feet. Understanding these regional variations is essential for accurate property evaluation and investment decisions.
Land Measurement Formula in Pakistan
In Pakistan, land is typically measured using a measuring tape or chain, especially for plots and agricultural lands. The basic formula used to calculate the area is:
Area = Length × Width
Common Plot Size Units Used in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the standard units for measuring plot sizes are marla, kanal, square feet, square yards and acres. Here’s a quick look at these units:
Marla: The marla is one of the most widely used units in Pakistan especially for residential plots.
Kanal: A kanal is larger than a marla and is commonly used in rural and suburban areas.
Square Feet (Sq. Ft.): This unit is used globally and is often used to measure the area of a property.
Square Yards: Commonly used in some regions, particularly for larger properties.
Acres: Larger plots of land, such as agricultural land, are often measured in acres.
How Many Square Feet in One Marla?
One of the most frequently asked questions among real estate investors in Pakistan is. How many square feet in one marla? Understanding this conversion is key to assessing property sizes accurately.
- 1 Marla = 272.25 Square Feet
This means that if you have a plot of land that is one marla in size, it would cover an area of 272.25 square feet.
Here is the plot size conversion table based on 1 marla = 272.25 square feet.
Land Measuring Units in Pakistan
In Pakistan, land is categorized as residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial — and the measurement units can vary slightly by category and region. Whether you’re dealing with a house plot in Lahore or farmland in Sindh, it’s crucial to understand the units and their conversions for smooth transactions and accurate valuation.
Linear Land Measurement Units (Length)
These are used to measure the length or boundary of land, often with tools like measuring tapes or chains. These units are foundational for understanding more complex land conversions.
| Unit | Conversion |
|---|---|
| 1 Inch | 2.54 cm |
| 1 Foot | 30.48 cm |
| 1 Yard | 91.44 cm |
| 1 Mile | 1.61 km |
| 1 Ghatta | 8.25 feet |
Traditional Square Land Measurement Units in Pakistan
These units are commonly used across different regions of Pakistan and vary based on local customs.
| Unit | Conversion |
|---|---|
| 1 sq ft | 0.093 sq meters |
| 1 sq yard (gazz) | 0.836 sq meters |
| 1 sq mile | 2.59 sq km (or 259 hectares) |
| 1 acre | 0.405 hectares = 4,840 sq yards = 4 Bigha 16 Biswa |
| 1 Bigha | 20 Biswa = 1,008 sq yards |
| 1 Biswa | 50 sq yards |
Some regions of Pakistan use older or less common land units, which are still relevant for rural or agricultural land measurement.
| Unit | Conversion |
|---|---|
| 1 Karam | 5.5 feet (approx. 1.67 meters) |
| 1 sq Karam | 30.25 sq ft |
| 1 Pole | 9 sq Karam (approx. 272.25 sq ft) |
| 40 Pole | 1 Rod (approx. 10,890 sq ft) |
| 4 Rod | 1 Acre (approx. 43,560 sq ft) |
Chain units are traditionally used in rural Pakistan to measure large agricultural fields.
| Unit | Conversion |
|---|---|
| 1 Inch | 10 chains |
| 1 Chain | 22 yards (66 feet) |
| 10 Chains | 1 Furlong |
| 1 Furlong | 201.168 meters |
Metric units are used in official land records and engineering documents. They’re increasingly common in urban planning and real estate development.
| Unit | Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Square Millimeter | 1,000,000 mm² = 1 m² |
| Square Centimeter | 10,000 cm² = 1 m² |
| Square Decimeter | 100 dm² = 1 m² |
| Square Meter (m²) | Base unit |
| Hectare (ha) | 1 ha = 10,000 m² |
| Square Kilometer (km²) | 1 km² = 1,000,000 m² |
This table provides an easy reference for converting marla to square feet, square meters, and square yards (gazz) — especially useful for buyers, builders, and agents.
| Marla | Sq. Feet | Sq. Meters | Sq. Yards (Gazz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 225 | 20.90 | 25 |
| 2 | 450 | 41.81 | 50 |
| 3 | 675 | 62.71 | 75 |
| 4 | 900 | 83.61 | 100 |
| 5 | 1,125 | 104.52 | 125 |
| 6 | 1,350 | 125.42 | 150 |
| 7 | 1,575 | 146.32 | 175 |
| 8 | 1,800 | 167.22 | 200 |
| 9 | 2,025 | 188.13 | 225 |
| 10 | 2,250 | 209.03 | 250 |
| 11 | 2,475 | 229.93 | 275 |
| 12 | 2,700 | 250.84 | 300 |
| 13 | 2,925 | 271.74 | 325 |
| 14 | 3,150 | 292.64 | 350 |
| 15 | 3,375 | 313.55 | 375 |
| 16 | 3,600 | 334.45 | 400 |
| 17 | 3,825 | 355.35 | 425 |
| 18 | 4,050 | 376.25 | 450 |
| 19 | 4,275 | 397.16 | 475 |
| 20 (1 Kanal) | 4,500 | 418.06 | 500 |
Regional Variations in Plot Size Measurements
Plot sizes can vary based on region in Pakistan. While the standard marla and kanal measurements are common. Some areas may use slightly different values. It’s essential for investors to confirm the specific measurements used in the region. Where they plan to invest.
In some areas, a marla is taken as consisting of 225 square feet instead of the average of 272.25 square feet. Besides, ensure that you fully observe the requirements of the neighborhood before a buy/sell to make sure that there is no misunderstanding due to local values.
How to Convert Plot Sizes: Formulas & Examples
Understanding how to convert plot sizes between different units is vital for real estate investors. Below are some common conversions:
Marla to Square Feet
To convert marla to square feet, use the following formula:
Square Feet = Marla × 272.25
For example:
- 1 marla = 272.25 square feet
- 5 marla = 1361.25 square feet
- 10 marla = 2722.5 square feet
Square Feet to Marla
To convert square feet to marla, use the formula
Marla = Square Feet ÷ 272.25
For example:
- 500 square feet = 1.83 marla
- 1000 square feet = 3.67 marla
Marla to Kanal
To convert marla to kanal, use the formula
Kanal = Marla ÷ 16
For example :
- 1 marla = 0.0625 kanal
- 10 marla = 0.625 kanal
Marla to Acres
To convert marla to acres, use the formula:
Acres = Marla ÷ 160
For example:
- 1 marla = 0.0063 acres
- 10 marla = 0.0625 acres
Importance of Accurate Plot Size for Property Valuation
Accurate plot size is important. When it comes to valuing a property. Misunderstanding plot sizes can lead to poor investment decisions. If the size is overestimated, you may end up overpaying for the land. If the size is underestimated, you could miss out on the full potential value of the property.
Knowing how to convert marla to square feet. How to convert plot sizes between other units can help you assess the true value of a property. Property valuation is also influenced by the location and type of land (residential or commercial). Other factors like accessibility and amenities.
Plot Size Conversion Tips for Real Estate Investors
- Use a Plot Size Calculator in Marla: Use a plot size converter that is easy to use and converts marla, square feet, and square yards to kanal. It would give you extra time to verify your output with a bit of caution in case a calculation gives otherwise.
- Double-check Regional Variations: Always verify if the plot size unit is used in your area of interest. That follow the standard measurements or if there are regional variations.
- Keep Track of Standard Conversions: Familiarize yourself with the standard conversion values like 1 marla to square feet, 5 marla in square feet, and other common conversions to make sure you’re always informed.
- Consider Future Growth: When investing, consider the future growth of the area. A property’s size and location can affect its long-term value. A plot that may seem small now could become a valuable asset in the future.
Final Thoughts on Plot Size Conversion in Pakistan
Understanding plot size conversion is essential for every real estate investor in Pakistan. Knowing how to convert units like marla to square feet, or kanal to square yards, empowers you to make smarter, well-informed investment decisions. With accurate knowledge and the right tools, you can avoid costly mistakes and maximize your property’s potential.
Stay updated on regional differences, rely on verified conversion charts, and use trusted calculators when needed. This expertise gives you an edge in Pakistan’s competitive real estate market.
Ready to invest with confidence?
📞 Call Riyassat at +92 326 8584383 or contact us to find the ideal plot, house, or land—backed by expert guidance every step of the way.
FAQs
How to calculate plot size?
For calculating the area of a plot, measure the length and breadth of the plot in the same unit (feet, meters, etc.), then multiply the two for the area.
What are the dimensions for a 20 Marla plot (1 Kanal)?
It means a 20 marla plot comprises 5,445 square feet, which approximately accounts for 505.87 square meters. A 20 marla plot equals 1 kanal.
Is Marla and Kanal different from each other?
Marla and kanal are traditional land measurement units in Pakistan
- 1 kanal equals 20 marlas
- Marla is the smaller unit used for residential plots
- Kanal is commonly used for medium-sized plots
- The conversion is straightforward: simply divide kanals by 20 to get marlas, or multiply marlas by 20 to get kanals
How many acres are in 10 marlas?
10 marlas equals 0.0625 acres. The conversion works as follows:
- 1 acre = 8 kanals
- 1 kanal = 20 marlas
- Therefore, 10 marlas = 10/20 kanals = 0.5 kanals
- 0.5 kanals = 0.5/8 acres = 0.0625 acres