Two plots both advertised as “5 marla” can differ in size by more than 200 square feet. That surprises many first-time buyers in Pakistan. The reason is that the marla does not have one single size. This guide explains the marla size confusion, why it exists and how to protect yourself, using our Square Feet to Marla converter.
Where the 272.25 comes from
The traditional marla comes from the land revenue system. One marla equals 9 sarsai, and one sarsai equals 30.25 square feet, so a marla is 9 × 30.25 = 272.25 sq ft. Revenue records (fard, intiqal) in many areas use this standard.
Where the 225 comes from
As cities grew, many development authorities and private housing societies adopted a rounded marla of 225 sq ft, which makes plots easier to lay out in feet. Some have used 250 sq ft. The result is that “marla” depends on who is measuring.
How big is the difference?
| Plot | At 225 sq ft | At 272.25 sq ft | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 marla | 1,125 sq ft | 1,361 sq ft | 236 sq ft |
| 10 marla | 2,250 sq ft | 2,722.5 sq ft | 472.5 sq ft |
| 1 kanal | 4,500 sq ft | 5,445 sq ft | 945 sq ft |
On a 1 kanal plot, the difference is almost a fifth of the plot.
How it affects price
A seller quoting price per marla without stating the standard can make one plot look cheaper than another when it is not. Always convert to price per square foot before comparing.
Protect yourself when buying
- Ask which marla standard is used and get it in writing.
- Check the dimensions on the approved site plan (for example 25 × 45 ft).
- Calculate the area in square feet yourself.
- Compare with the area in the registry or allotment letter.
- If dimensions are irregular, ask for a proper measurement by a surveyor.
Kanal and acre
A kanal is always 20 marla, and an acre is 8 kanal (160 marla), but their square-foot size also depends on the marla used, except the acre, which is fixed at 43,560 sq ft. The Marla / Kanal Converter shows all units together, and Kanal to Marla handles kanal conversions. For the basic method, see how to convert square feet to marla.
Frequently asked questions
Why are there two marla sizes?
The revenue system uses 272.25 sq ft, while many modern housing societies adopted 225 sq ft.
Which marla does DHA use?
Many societies, including DHA phases, are commonly described as using 225 sq ft, but confirm with the society for your plot.
How much bigger is a revenue marla?
47.25 sq ft per marla, about 21% bigger than a 225 sq ft marla.