SKARDU: Pakistan offers diverse and breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to towering mountains. The Sulaiman Mountains, a key attraction in central Pakistan, are part of this natural beauty.
Covering about 2,500 square miles (6,500 square kilometres), these mountains extend across both Afghanistan and Pakistan, specifically in the provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In 2023, an astronaut aboard the International Space Station captured a unique photograph of the Sulaiman Mountains, showcasing thick clouds of haze trapped behind their tall peaks. This image highlights the dramatic natural barriers formed by the mountains, which rise over 10,000 feet (3,000 metres) in some areas. The photo, taken at an oblique angle, provides a different perspective, emphasising the rugged terrain and the way haze accumulates on the windward side.
Formation and Features of the Sulaiman Mountains
The Sulaiman Mountains formed about 60 million years ago due to the slow collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The range acts as a natural barrier between the elevated plateaus to the west and the Indus River Valley to the east. Winds from the Indian Ocean carry moisture and particulates, creating a mix of haze, mist, and clouds that get trapped against the mountains.
One of the most notable peaks in this range is Takht-e-Sulaiman, also known as the ‘Throne of Solomon’.
This peak, standing at 11,440 feet (3,487 metres), is located near the town of Dhana Sar and is associated with the biblical King Solomon.
Astronaut Photography and Earth Observation
The astronaut photograph ISS070-E-42565 was taken on December 17, 2023, using a Nikon D5 camera with a 460mm lens. The image, provided by NASA’s Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, highlights the natural beauty and complex geography of the Sulaiman Mountains. It is part of NASA’s efforts to capture and share valuable images of Earth for scientific and public benefit.
This photograph not only showcases the unique landscape of the Sulaiman Mountains but also underscores Pakistan’s potential as a tourist destination, offering spectacular natural scenery and a rich cultural heritage.
