Hotels, Things to do, Places to visit, Restaurants, Attractions, Car Rental in Peshawar
Peshawar
Peshawar is the capital of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan and the largest city in the region. Ranking as the sixth-largest city in Pakistan, Peshawar is known for its rich history, cultural significance, and its role as a major economic and political hub in the region. The city attracts a wide range of visitors due to its vibrant heritage, historical landmarks, and strategic location.
Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is renowned for its vibrant tourism and delicious food. As the richest city in the province, it stands as a major economic and cultural center of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. With a recorded history dating back to 539 BC, Peshawar is among the oldest cities in Pakistan and one of the most ancient cities in the Indian subcontinent. Its strategic location has historically made it a crucial crossroads for trade between Central Asia, West Asia, and the Indian subcontinent, enhancing its rich cultural and economic significance.
Pearl Continental Hotel has located in Peshawar. The hotel features four eating establishments, an outdoor pool, elegant rooms, and spacious living areas.
PeshawarSee nearby Hotels 7.2GoodPrice per room per night from PKRs 7000
Fort Continental Hotel is located in Peshawar. The hotel features currency exchange services, a minibar, and a continental or buffet-style breakfast for guests.
PeshawarSee nearby Hotels 6.8FinePrice per room per night from PKRs 6000
A continental breakfast is available daily at the accommodation. The area is popular for hiking and cycling, and car hire is available at Shelton Accommodator.
PeshawarSee nearby Hotels 7.0Review ScorePrice per room per night from PKRs 5000
Hotel Grand is located in Peshawar. The hotel features a restaurant that offers the best Chinese foods, also a minibar, meeting rooms, conference rooms.
Mahabat Khan Mosque: A Timeless Mughal Monument in Peshawar
The Mahabat Khan Mosque, constructed in 1630, stands as an enduring symbol of Mughal architecture in Peshawar, Pakistan. Named after the Mughal governor Mahabat Khan, this mosque’s iconic white marble façade captivates visitors with its elegance. A true masterpiece of the 17th century, the mosque continues to be one of Peshawar's most visited landmarks, representing the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Bala Hissar Fort, an architectural gem in Peshawar, holds centuries of historical significance. First mentioned by 7th-century explorer Xuanzang, it served as a royal residence for the Durrani Empire from 1747. Over time, the fort witnessed various rulers, including the Maratha and Sikh empires. Reconstructed by the British in 1849, its robust walls now house the Frontier Corps headquarters, preserving its historical grandeur and strategic importance.
Saddar Road opposite Governor House Peshawar & Civil Secretariat • Show on map
Peshawar Museum: A Fusion of Cultures
Established in 1907 as "Victoria Hall" to commemorate Queen Victoria, the Peshawar Museum is a blend of British, Hindu, Buddhist, and Mughal architectural styles. Initially featuring a single hall, the museum expanded in the 1960s and again in 2005 to include new galleries, conservation labs, and an office for the archaeology directorate. Today, it is a treasure trove of artifacts, reflecting the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.
Inaugurated on February 13, 2018, Peshawar Zoo spans 29 acres near the Pakistan Forest Institute. Construction began in 2016, with groundbreaking ceremonies led by prominent figures like Imran Khan and Pervez Khattak. The zoo offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse wildlife and enjoy family-friendly activities in a natural setting, making it a major attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Jamrud, Khyber Agency, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan • Show on map
Jamrud Fort: A Symbol of Sikh Victory
Situated near Bab-e-Khyber at the entrance of the historic Khyber Pass, Jamrud Fort stands as a testament to Sikh military triumphs. Built by General Hari Singh Nalwa in 1836, the fort’s 10-foot-thick walls commemorate the Sikh victory over the region’s tribes. Originally named Fatehgarh, the fort continues to evoke the era's martial spirit and remains a significant landmark in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Located in Faqirabad, Peshawar, Shahi Bagh, meaning "The Royal Park," is a 100-acre Mughal-era garden of immense historical and recreational value. Declared a national heritage site, the park has been a hub for students and locals, offering serene spaces for study and leisure. Its lush greenery and historical significance make it a cherished landmark in the city.
Qissa Khwani Bazaar, a historical market in Peshawar, holds cultural and political significance.
It is the birthplace of Indian actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor, while Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan's family resides in the area. The bazaar witnessed the tragic 1930 massacre where British forces killed hundreds of unarmed protesters, igniting nationwide protests and elevating the Khudai Khidmatgar movement. Despite modern challenges, Qissa Khwani Bazaar remains a symbol of resistance and cultural heritage.
Tour Packages in Peshawar
Nightlife
Peshawar, traditionally known for its conservative lifestyle, is gradually embracing modern nightlife. While the city isn't known for bustling clubs or bars, it offers a unique, culturally rich nighttime experience. From lively street food markets to cosy cafés.
Peshawar's nightlife offers a distinctive charm, blending tradition with modernity. While it doesn't boast the high-energy clubs or extensive bar scenes found in larger cities, Peshawar has a growing social scene, especially for those seeking cultural experiences after dark. In the evenings, local parks and food markets come alive, where people gather to enjoy traditional Pashtun food, chat with friends, or relax with family. The bustling street food scene, especially around Khyber Bazaar and Hashtnagri, offers a chance to taste local delicacies like Chapli kebabs, Peshawari naan, and sweets like Peshawari ice cream.
Cafés, restaurants, and small eateries are popular hangout spots, providing a cosy environment for socialising. Many of these places offer both traditional Pashto tea and modern beverages, making them popular among young people. As the night progresses, locals can be seen socialising in tea houses or walking through the vibrant Saddar Bazaar.
Culture and Heritage
During British rule, Peshawar became a cultural hub for both Hindu and Pashtun intellectuals. For much of its history under British administration, Hindko speakers (also known as Khaarian, meaning "city dwellers" in Pashto) were the dominant cultural group. The people of Peshawar are well-known for their hospitality and welcoming nature, making visitors feel at ease and eager to return. While Peshawar's social norms tend to be conservative, especially in terms of dress and socialising, with many wearing shuttlecock burqas, abayas, and chaddars, the city is gradually seeing a shift in fashion. This change is largely influenced by the growing number of places and restaurants where young people can hang out, offering a more modern social atmosphere.
Another old tradition in Peshawar that has changed over time is the hujra, which was once a distinct gathering place for men, much like a drawing room for males, typically adorned with cushions on the floor. This tradition was more common in the past, when people's living spaces were larger and the women of the house would not walk in front of male visitors. Today, however, the hujra has been replaced with drawing rooms, making the city more similar to others, with homes no longer having separate spaces for male guests.
An interesting cultural aspect of Peshawar is that the Pathans of the city celebrate Eid one day earlier than the rest of Pakistan. This variation has led to some division, as not everyone follows the government's announced date for the celebration. This results in two distinct groups within the city, with differing views on the timing of Eid.
Despite the city's conservative image, Peshawar's inhabitants are known to be both intelligent and well-educated, with a strong awareness of current fashion trends. The girls of Peshawar are also known for being outgoing and non-conservative, challenging some of the city’s traditional stereotypes.
Best ipsum hotel
London • Show on map 8 /10Price per person from $ 500
4 Nights, Self Catering from London Southend with EasyJet Airlineson 25th January 2016 More info