Peshawar, Pakistan: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Peshawar, one of Asia’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, has been a crossroads of civilizations for over 2,500 years. This ancient city in Pakistan’s northwest has witnessed the passage of countless empires, from Alexander the Great to the Mughals, each leaving their distinctive mark on its architecture, cuisine, and culture. Today, this vibrant capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province offers travelers a fascinating glimpse into a rich tapestry of history while maintaining its authentic Pashtun character.

Getting to Peshawar

Peshawar is well-connected to the rest of Pakistan and several international destinations. The Bacha Khan International Airport serves the city with regular flights from major Pakistani cities and select international locations including Dubai, Sharjah, and Kuala Lumpur.

By road, Peshawar is connected to Islamabad via the M-1 motorway (approximately 2 hours) and the N-5 national highway. Regular bus services operate between major cities, offering an economical travel option for those who prefer scenic routes.

Best Time to Visit Peshawar

Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens in Peshawar

Peshawar experiences extreme temperatures in summer and winter, making spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) the ideal times to visit. During these seasons, temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.

If you’re interested in cultural experiences, consider visiting during Eid celebrations or the Shandur Polo Festival (July), when the city comes alive with festivities and traditional events.

Getting Around Peshawar

Colorful auto-rickshaws are a popular way to navigate Peshawar’s streets

Navigating Peshawar is relatively straightforward with several transportation options available:

For first-time visitors, hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially when exploring the old city and bazaars. They can provide cultural context and help navigate the labyrinthine streets while ensuring you don’t miss hidden gems.

Where to Stay in Peshawar

Modern hotels in Peshawar often incorporate traditional architectural elements

Peshawar offers accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Most international-standard hotels are located in the Cantonment and University Town areas, while budget options can be found throughout the city.

For an authentic experience, consider staying in one of the heritage guesthouses in the old city area. These renovated traditional homes offer a glimpse into local architecture while providing modern amenities. However, availability may be limited, so advance booking is recommended.

Top Things to Do in Peshawar

1. Qissa Khwani Bazaar (Storytellers Market)

The historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar has been a trading hub for centuries

The “Bazaar of Storytellers” is the beating heart of old Peshawar. For over a thousand years, this market has been where travelers and merchants would gather to share tales over cups of kahwa (green tea). Today, it remains a vibrant commercial center where you can shop for everything from traditional crafts to spices while soaking in the authentic atmosphere.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the traditional tea houses where you can experience the famous Peshawari kahwa served in the traditional way. The bazaar is particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon when the golden light illuminates the ancient buildings.

2. Bala Hisar Fort

The imposing Bala Hisar Fort has guarded Peshawar for centuries

This imposing fort, whose name means “high fort” in Persian, dominates Peshawar’s skyline and has witnessed centuries of the region’s turbulent history. Built by the Mughal emperor Babur in 1526, it has been rebuilt and modified by subsequent rulers, including the Durranis and Sikhs.

While the interior is restricted as it serves as headquarters for Pakistan’s Frontier Corps, visitors can admire the impressive structure from the outside and visit the small museum that showcases the region’s military history. The fort offers spectacular views of the city and is particularly photogenic during sunset.

3. Peshawar Museum

The Peshawar Museum houses one of the world’s finest collections of Gandharan art

Housed in a beautiful Victorian-era building, the Peshawar Museum boasts one of the world’s most extensive collections of Gandharan art. The museum’s galleries display Buddhist sculptures, artifacts from the Mughal and British colonial periods, and ethnographic exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The Buddhist gallery is particularly noteworthy, featuring intricate stone carvings and sculptures that reflect the unique fusion of Greek and Indian artistic traditions that characterized the Gandhara civilization. Allow at least two hours to fully appreciate the museum’s extensive collections.

4. Mohabbat Khan Mosque

The magnificent Mohabbat Khan Mosque showcases exquisite Mughal architecture

Built in the 17th century during the Mughal era, this magnificent mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its spacious courtyard, white marble façade, and intricate decorations make it one of Peshawar’s most beautiful buildings. The mosque continues to serve as an active place of worship, so visitors should dress modestly and respect prayer times.

From the roof of the mosque, you can enjoy panoramic views of the old city, providing excellent photo opportunities. The mosque is particularly beautiful in the early morning light when the white marble glows with a golden hue.

5. Sethi House Museum

The ornate interior of Sethi House showcases the wealth and taste of 19th-century merchants

This architectural gem offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of wealthy 19th-century merchants. The Sethi family built several mansions in Peshawar, combining Central Asian, Persian, and local architectural styles to create uniquely beautiful homes characterized by intricate woodwork, stained glass, and mirrored rooms.

The main Sethi House has been converted into a museum where visitors can explore the various rooms, courtyards, and decorative elements that showcase the craftsmanship of the era. The house is located in the old city, making it easy to combine with visits to nearby attractions.

6. Cunningham Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar)

The Cunningham Clock Tower stands as a reminder of the colonial era

Built in 1900 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, this colonial-era landmark stands at a busy intersection in the heart of Peshawar. The tower serves as a navigational reference point and a reminder of the city’s complex history. The area around the clock tower is a bustling commercial district where you can experience the everyday life of Peshawar’s residents.

The nearby Chowk Yadgar (Square of Remembrance) is a traditional gathering place where you can often find elderly men engaged in animated discussions over cups of tea, offering a glimpse into local social customs.

7. Khyber Pass

The historic Khyber Pass has been a crucial trade route for millennia

Located about 40 kilometers from Peshawar, the legendary Khyber Pass has been a strategic gateway between Central and South Asia for thousands of years. This narrow mountain passage has witnessed countless armies, traders, and travelers throughout history, including Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan.

While the pass itself requires special permits to visit due to its proximity to the Afghan border, you can view it from certain vantage points near Jamrud Fort. For those interested in history and dramatic landscapes, the journey to the Khyber Pass area is well worth the effort.

Food and Dining in Peshawar

Peshawari cuisine is known for its flavorful meat dishes and distinctive cooking techniques

Peshawar is a paradise for food lovers, especially those who appreciate meat dishes. The city’s cuisine reflects its position at the crossroads of Central and South Asia, with influences from Afghan, Persian, and Indian culinary traditions.

Must-Try Dishes

Where to Eat

Restaurants in Namak Mandi are famous for their traditional cooking methods

• Namak Mandi: This area is famous for its meat dishes, particularly karahi. Restaurants here cook in the traditional style, with meat prepared in large woks over open flames.
• Qissa Khwani Bazaar: The perfect place to sample traditional Peshawari kahwa (green tea) and various street foods.
• Charsi Tikka: Located in the old city, this restaurant is renowned for its tikka and karahi dishes.
• Jalil Kebab House: Famous for its chapli kebabs, considered among the best in the city.
• Chief Burger: A popular local fast-food option known for its unique take on burgers with a Peshawari twist.

For an authentic experience, look for restaurants where you can select your meat by weight and watch as it’s prepared in front of you. This is a common practice in traditional Peshawari establishments and ensures the freshest possible meal.

Practical Tips for Visiting Peshawar

Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience of Peshawar’s cultural sites

Day Trips from Peshawar

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Takht-i-Bahi is a remarkable Buddhist monastery complex

While Peshawar itself offers plenty to explore, several fascinating destinations within a few hours’ drive make for excellent day trips:

For those with more time, consider extending your journey to include Swat Valley, often called the “Switzerland of Pakistan” for its alpine scenery, or the historic city of Taxila with its remarkable archaeological sites dating back to the Gandhara civilization.

Shopping in Peshawar

Peshawar’s bazaars offer a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts and textiles

Peshawar is a shopper’s paradise, especially for those interested in traditional crafts, textiles, and antiques. The city’s strategic location on ancient trade routes means you’ll find influences from Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the Indian subcontinent in its markets.

What to Buy

• Peshawari Chappal: Handcrafted leather sandals that are both stylish and comfortable
• Afghan Carpets: Intricately designed rugs with distinctive patterns
• Tribal Jewelry: Silver pieces featuring semi-precious stones and traditional designs
• Chitrali Caps: Colorful woolen hats from the northern regions
• Pottery: Blue-glazed ceramics with traditional patterns
• Embroidered Textiles: Shawls, tablecloths, and clothing with intricate needlework
• Antiques: Historical items reflecting the region’s diverse cultural influences

Where to Shop

Artisans still craft traditional Peshawari chappal sandals using time-honored techniques

• Qissa Khwani Bazaar: The historic “Storytellers Market” offers a wide range of goods and an authentic shopping experience
• Meena Bazaar: A market specifically for women, selling clothing, jewelry, and cosmetics
• Khyber Bazaar: Known for its collection of antiques and tribal artifacts
• Saddar Bazaar: A more modern shopping area with fixed-price shops
• Chowk Yadgar: The central square surrounded by shops selling traditional items

Remember that bargaining is expected in most markets, so don’t accept the first price offered. Start by counter-offering about 50-60% of the initial price and negotiate from there. The process should be friendly and respectful – it’s as much about the interaction as it is about the price.

Experience the Magic of Peshawar

The timeless charm of Peshawar awaits adventurous travelers

Peshawar stands as a living museum where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary life. From the storytellers of Qissa Khwani Bazaar to the architectural splendors of the Mughal era, the city offers a journey through time that few destinations can match. Its rich culinary heritage, warm hospitality, and authentic cultural experiences reward travelers willing to venture beyond the typical tourist trail.

As you wander through Peshawar’s historic streets, sample its flavorful cuisine, and interact with its proud residents, you’ll discover a city that has maintained its distinctive character despite centuries of change. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply a curious traveler seeking authentic experiences, Peshawar promises memories that will last a lifetime. The ancient city of storytellers is ready to add your story to its rich tapestry – all you need to do is arrive with an open heart and a sense of adventure.