Hey! There, Peshawar is one of the oldest cities in Asia, and people have been living there for over 2,000 years. It’s the capital of KPK in Pakistan and has a rich mix of history because lots of different empires ruled it.

You’ll find amazing old forts, busy markets, and tasty food everywhere you go. If you want to understand this city and plan a cool visit, this Peshawar Travel Guide will walk you through the best spots and things you shouldn’t miss.

This guide will help first-time visitors understand what Peshawar offers. It will also show why this city should be on your travel list. Whether you are a solo traveler, with family, or with friends, Peshawar has plenty to explore.

So, let’s start.

Why Visit Peshawar?

Peshawar (پشاور) is a big city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It has been around for a very long time and is full of history. You can explore old markets where people have sold things for hundreds of years.

The city also has beautiful forts that tell stories from the past. If you like trying new foods, Peshawar has many tasty dishes to enjoy.

Plus, the people here are very friendly and welcoming. If you want to see a city with a rich history and good food, Peshawar is a great choice.

Getting to Peshawar

Getting to Peshawar is quite simple. The city has its airport, so you can fly in from big cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. If you like traveling by road, buses, and cars can take you here from nearby cities, too.

The roads are easy to travel, and the views on the way can be nice. No matter how you choose to get here, reaching Peshawar won’t be a problem.

By Air

You can fly to Peshawar through Bacha Khan International Airport. This airport connects the city to many local and international destinations. It is about a 20-minute drive from the city center.

By Road

Peshawar is well connected by road. It takes about 2 hours by car from Islamabad. Many buses and vans also run between major cities and Peshawar.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best months to visit Peshawar. The weather is pleasant during these seasons. Summers can be very hot, so plan accordingly.

History of Peshawar

A long time ago, Peshawar was called Pushpura. It’s one of the oldest cities you can still visit today. Many different groups have ruled here, like the Parthians, Hindus, Kushans, and Mughals. Each group left its special mark, whether in buildings, art, or the way people live.

When you walk around Peshawar, it’s like stepping back in time. The old forts, beautiful mosques, and busy bazaars all have stories to share from hundreds of years ago. The city’s history is everywhere you look.

Top Attractions in Peshawar

Peshawar has many places that are fun and interesting to visit. You can explore old forts, visit beautiful mosques, walk through busy markets, or relax in quiet parks.

No matter what you like, history, shopping, or tasty food, Peshawar has something for you. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to see when you visit this city.

Bala Hisar Fort

Bala Hisar Fort is one of the most famous places in Peshawar. It was once a royal residence and a military site. The fort is built on a high mound. From the top, you can see the entire city.

The fort is open to the public on Sundays. Remember to bring your CNIC or passport if you want to visit.

Peshawar Museum

Peshawar Museum was built in memory of Queen Victoria in 1907. The building is a mix of British, South Indian, Hindu, Buddhist, and Mughal styles.

Inside, you will find one of the largest collections of Buddhist Gandhara art in the world. You will also see Mughal miniatures and old coins. It is a great place for history lovers.

Bab-e-Khyber (Khyber Gate)

Bab-e-Khyber is a famous gateway. It is located near Jamrud Fort, at the mouth of the famous Khyber Pass. The gate, built in 1964, is a popular photo spot for tourists.

Gorkhatri Complex

The Gorkhatri Complex is an archaeological site that is over 1,000 years old. It includes a mosque and an old fire temple, believed to be connected to Gorakhnath.

Around the site, you will also find historical buildings such as the old fire brigade building.

Mohabbat Khan Mosque

Mohabbat Khan Mosque was built in 1630 when Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan was in charge. It is famous for its large white marble outside and pretty flower designs inside.

It’s a calm and quiet place where you can enjoy the beautiful style of old Mughal buildings.

Peshawar Zoo

Peshawar Zoo opened to the public in 2018. It is one of the newest zoos in Pakistan. Spread across 29 acres, the zoo is home to many animals. It is a great place to visit if you are traveling with kids.

Mohallah Sethian (Sethi Mohallah)

Mohallah Sethian is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Peshawar. The area features 7 large mansions built in the 19th century by the wealthy Sethi merchant family.

The mansions are known for their beautiful wooden designs and artistic details. Walking through these old houses is like stepping back in time.

Jamrud Fort

Jamrud Fort was built by General Hari Singh Nalwa, a commander under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The fort sits on a hilltop and offers great views of the surrounding area.

It is over 180 years old and remains well preserved.

Cunningham Clock Tower

The Cunningham Clock Tower, also known as Ghanta Ghar, was built in 1900 to mark Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. The clock tower is 85 feet tall and still stands proudly in the center of the city.

Day Trip to Landi Kotal & Khyber Pass

If you have extra time, a day trip to Landi Kotal and Khyber Pass is highly recommended. The journey takes about 40 to 45 minutes by road from Peshawar.

Route & Highlights

On your way, you will pass Bab-e-Khyber, Jamrud Fort, and Ali Masjid Fort. You can stop at different points for photos.

Ali Masjid Fort & Waterfall

Ali Masjid Fort is an old military fort built above a river. Near the fort, there is a small waterfall called Afsar. It is a good place to relax and enjoy nature.

Landi Kotal Bazaar

Before reaching the waterfall, you can visit Landi Kotal Bazaar. It is the last market before the border areas. You can buy local snacks such as:

• Pakoras
• Kebabs
• Fresh bread
• Cold drinks

Food You Must Try in Peshawar

One of the best parts of visiting Peshawar is trying its food. The city is famous for its rich, hearty dishes that locals love to share. You will find lots of flavors here, from smoky grilled meats to fresh breads and warming teas.

Eating in Peshawar is an experience in itself, and no visit is complete without tasting these local favorites.

Peshawari Kehwa (Green Tea)

Peshawari Kehwa is a light green tea often enjoyed after meals. It is served with sugar or sometimes with nuts. You will find it in many tea shops, especially in Qissa Khwani Bazaar — the perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring.

Chapli Kebab

Chapli Kebab is Peshawar’s most famous dish. It is a spicy minced meat patty cooked on a large flat pan. Served hot with naan bread, it is full of flavor and a must-try for all meat lovers.

Dum Pukht

Dum Pukht is a delicious slow-cooked meat dish made with rice. The meat is cooked on low heat for hours, so it becomes very soft and full of flavor. This dish is perfect if you want something rich and comforting.

Peshawari Naan

Peshawari Naan is soft bread baked in a tandoor (clay oven). It often has a light, crispy outside and a soft inside. You can eat it with curries, kebabs, or even on its own — it’s that good.

Mutton Karahi

Mutton Karahi is a spicy goat curry cooked in a round metal pan called a “karahi.” The meat is tender and full of spice, and it tastes best when eaten with naan. It’s a popular choice in local restaurants.

Tikka Kebab

Tikka Kebab is grilled meat on skewers, cooked over hot coals. It is juicy and tender. The best place to try it is Namak Mandi, a famous food street in Peshawar, where the aroma of grilled meat fills the air.

Vegetarian Options

If you prefer vegetarian food, don’t worry — you’ll find some great choices. Try dal (lentils cooked with spices) or palak paneer (spinach with soft cheese). These dishes are simple, tasty, and loved by locals too.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Peshawar is a great place to shop for traditional items. One of the most popular things to buy here is the Peshawari Chappal. These handmade leather sandals are strong, comfortable, and look very nice.

Many visitors take them home as gifts or wear them themselves. Even former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been seen wearing Peshawari Chappals, which made them even more popular. If you visit the local markets, you’ll find many shops selling them in different styles and colors.

Famous Personalities Linked to Peshawar

Several famous personalities have roots in Peshawar:

• Dilip Kumar – Legendary Bollywood actor.
• Kapoor Family – Well-known Indian film family.
• Shah Rukh Khan – Bollywood superstar with ancestral ties to the city.

Sports Culture in Peshawar

Peshawar has an active sports scene. Popular sports include:

• Hockey
• Squash
• Cricket
• Volleyball

The main sports venues in the city are:

• Peshawar Sports Complex
• Arbab Niaz Stadium
• Qayyum Stadium

FAQs

Final Words

So, guys, in this article, we’ve covered the Peshawar Travel Guide in detail.

If you are someone who loves history, good food, and meeting friendly people, I really recommend visiting Peshawar. Walking through its old streets and tasting its famous kebabs is an experience you won’t forget. Take your time to explore the markets, visit the forts, and enjoy a cup of Peshawari Kehwa.

If you enjoyed this guide, share it with your friends or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear about your Peshawar trip!

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