Things To Do
in Peshawar
Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, sits in the fertile Peshawar Valley near the Kabul River and the historic Khyber Pass. It is one of South Asia's oldest continuously inhabited cities, famed for its walled old city, bustling bazaars, and layered history. The city is renowned for its warm hospitality, spicy street food, and a resilient Pashtun culture that blends tradition with modern life.
Modern Peshawar rewards curious travelers with centuries-old forts, vibrant markets, and a gateway to the region's mountains and passes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Peshawar Fort, where you can wander through its ancient walls and admire the stunning views of the city. After that, head to the nearby Mohabbat Khan Mosque, an exquisite example of Mughal architecture, where the peaceful atmosphere invites you to reflect. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, sampling parathas and chai as you soak in the local culture.
In the afternoon, visit the Peshawar Museum to explore its extensive collection of Gandharan art, including intricate sculptures and artifacts from the region's rich history. Afterward, stroll through the bustling Qissa Khwani Bazaar, where you can experience the vibrant local market scene, with vendors selling everything from spices to handcrafted goods. Don't forget to take a break and sip on some refreshing sugarcane juice while observing the lively interactions around you.
As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Pashto dinner at a renowned local restaurant, where you can savor dishes like chapli kebabs and kabuli pulao. After dinner, take a leisurely walk in the historic streets of the old city, where the sounds of evening prayers and bustling life create a magical atmosphere. End your night with a visit to a local tea house, where you can enjoy a cup of kahwa and engage in conversation with locals.
Begin your day with a visit to the Peshawar Arts Council, where you can admire local art and perhaps even catch a workshop on traditional crafts. Afterward, visit the famous Peshawar Handicrafts Market, where you can browse through beautiful textiles, pottery, and intricate woodwork made by skilled artisans. Engage with the craftsmen to learn about their techniques and the cultural significance of their work.
In the afternoon, take a short drive to the historical Bala Hisar Fort, where you can explore its ancient ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of the city. This site is rich with history and provides insight into Peshawar's strategic importance over centuries. Visit the nearby Sethi House, a beautifully preserved example of traditional Peshawari architecture, showcasing intricate woodwork and craftsmanship.
As evening falls, head to a local restaurant known for its authentic Peshawari cuisine, where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by the warmth of traditional décor. After dinner, stroll through the city to witness the illuminated architecture of the historic buildings, creating a beautiful backdrop for your evening. Conclude your night with a visit to a local music venue, where you can experience the vibrant sounds of Pashto folk music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️One night in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚆Local transit ride | $0.30-0.80 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and vibrant bazaars with a welcoming atmosphere
- Iconic street foods and traditional Pashtun hospitality
- Compact old city makes day trips easy and walkable
- Hot summers and cold winters require packing for extremes
- Traffic can be heavy in the central areas and some streets are crowded
- Security considerations mean some areas may be restricted at times
- "سلام" - Hello
- "براہ مہربانی" - Please
- "شکریہ" - Thank you
- "کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟" - Do you speak English?
- "مجھے مدد چاہئے" - I need help
- "یہ کتنے کا ہے؟" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Peshawar
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, archways, and daily life provide dynamic street photography with natural light highlighting textures and colors.
Ruins perched above the city offer panoramic views, dramatic silhouettes at golden hour, and a sense of history.
Ottoman-inspired mosque with white marble and blue accents; great for exterior angles and twilight shots.
Carved wooden doors, intricate copperware shops, and narrow alleys for intimate portrait and architectural photography.
Food in Peshawar
Peshawar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A iconic minced-meat kebab spiced with coriander, cumin, chili, and herbs; widely enjoyed from street stalls to restaurants.
Must-Try!
Lamb skewers or chunks slow-roasted over charcoal, often served with rice or bread and a tart chutney.
Flatbread stuffed with spiced minced meat; a popular pairing with kebabs and curries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic kebab market famed for dum pukht and chapli kebab; a great place to sample multiple stalls in one stretch.
Bustling market known for snacks, fresh bread, dried fruits, and a variety of street bites amid lively lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and traditional areas.
A respectful greeting is key; some people may prefer a verbal greeting over a handshake, particularly with elders.
Ask before photographing people or private properties; some areas restrict photography.
Remove shoes when required and follow posted guidelines; avoid loud behavior in places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Peshawar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotels, 10–15% is common if service is not included; rounding up at street stalls is also appreciated.
Cash is widely preferred, especially in markets. Many larger eateries and hotels accept debit/credit cards; always carry small denominations for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often reaching 35–40°C (95–104°F). Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Occasional heavy rains and high humidity; keep rain gear ready and protect cameras and electronics from moisture.
Mild days and cooler evenings; comfortable for walking tours and photography without extreme heat.
Cool to cold, with chilly nights. Layered clothing is essential; mornings can be misty but pleasant for city exploration.
Peshawar at Night
Hiking in Peshawar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged mountain trails with historic significance; security and guide requirements apply; best with local guidance and current advisories.
Gentler climbs with forested slopes and viewpoints within a reasonable drive from the city.
Forest trails and scenic viewpoints; longer drives but rewarding for those seeking established trekking routes.
Airports
How to reach Peshawar by plane.
Main gateway for the region; handles domestic flights and select international connections. Expect standard security checks and local taxi access to the city.
Major international and domestic hub located about 180–200 km from Peshawar; typically reached by road or rail and then a short drive into the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; Pashto is widely spoken alongside Urdu and English in urban settings.
Smaller communities contributing to the city’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime with widespread local participation, parks, and informal street games.
Popular in schools and community grounds; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Traditionally significant; many clubs and school teams continue the sport in KP.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peshawar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include dal, paneer dishes, healthy greens, and bread-based meals. Look for cooked vegetables, lentil stews, and dairy-based curries; ask about ghee or animal-based stocks and request no meat stock when possible.