Buying | 4 min read | 12 October 2026 (sample)
Marla, kanal and square feet: a simple guide
Why a 10 marla plot is not always the same size, and how to check the real area before you buy.
By Usman Raza, Prime Estates (demo)
In Pakistan, land and houses are sold in marla and kanal. One kanal is 20 marla. The confusing part is that a marla is not the same size everywhere.
How big is a marla?
- Many housing societies in Islamabad use 225 square feet for one marla
- Older revenue records often use 272.25 square feet
- So a 10 marla plot can be 2,250 or 2,722 square feet, depending on where it is
How to check the real size
Always look for the area in square feet or square yards on the allotment letter or site plan, and measure the plot on your visit. We note the measured size on every listing.
Flats are different
Apartments are sold in square feet. Ask whether the size is the covered area or includes a share of corridors and lifts, because the difference can be 15% or more.
Sample article on a demo website, for general guidance only. Rules and fees change; check with the society, CDA, your bank or a lawyer before you act.