Peshawar

Ultimate Guide to the Best Places in Peshawar for Tourists

This iconic city and capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is one of the most culturally and historically rich places to visit in Pakistan. The city dates back to at least 539 BCE hence making it the oldest city of not only Pakistan but also South Asia. Many Pakistanis visit here to experience the culture and food. One of the famous eateries here is Nisar Charsi Tikka located in the most vibrant area, Namak Mandi Market, where you can find the best Dumba Karahi and Lamp Chops. So, let’s run through the list of the best places in Peshawar for tourism.

Bala Hisaar Fort

This fort was a royal residence for the Durrani Empire and now serves as a control center for Pakistan Frontier Corps. The fort is located on top of a high mound and gives a panoramic view of the entire city including the famous Qissa Khawani Bazaar. Tourists flock to this place to see the fort and the view of the city that comes with it. The fort is enormous and the sight of it leaves you breathless for a second. The large pillars of the fort are magnificent. You can also find a museum displaying different items from the Frontier Corps such as uniforms and weaponry. This fort is still a symbol of bravery for the Pakhtuns.

Qissa Khawani Bazaar

This bazaar is the most famous market in Peshawar. It is also known as the Street of Storytellers. The attraction of this bazaar is not just what you can buy but the entire ambience of the arty street and cultural experience. It is crowded but for good reason. For those wanting to explore the local culture and ways, it’s the place to be. Apart from shopping items, you’ll find many authentic food places to tickle your taste buds. Try the Peshawari Chapli Kebab and top it off with the signature Peshawari Kehwa (green tea). You’ll have a blast.

Peshawar Museum

Founded in 1907, this museum presents some of the most historically rich displays. The highlight of the museum is some of the world’s oldest Buddhist artwork from the Gandhara Empire. With a whopping 1400 items on display, you may lose yourself amidst the jewels that lie here. You’ll find coin collections, statues, and manuscripts. There are also beautifully crafted handiworks such as ancient dresses, jewelry, and portraits of the Mughal. The building itself is a brilliant sight too. The architecture is built in four unique styles being British, Hindu, Buddhist, and Mughal.

Shahi Bagh

This is the oldest garden from the Mughal Era so holds a significant historical value; the garden’s beauty is spread over 100 acres. It is a peaceful and exquisite destination for a picnic. It is an endless stretch of manicured grass ornamented with an array of various flowers and flora. The flowing fountain in the center of the garden is a therapeutic sight. You’ll find many food places near here such as the Haleem Ghar, Tajmahal Burger, or the Jalil Kebab House.

Mahabat Khan Masjid

This gleaming white masjid constructed in the 17th Century Mughal Era is a spectacular destination for tourists to experience the beauty of Islamic architecture and the peacefulness inside the mosque. Whilst the exterior is a white marble façade, the inside is just the opposite. You’ll see a multitude of colorful frescoes and murals depicting floral patterns that will astound the viewer. It will be a wholesome experience visiting the Mahabat Khan Masjid, making it to the list of the best places to visit in Peshawar.

Gorkhatri

Gorkhatri, translating to “Grave of Warrior”, is by far one of the most mystifying places to see in Peshawar dating back to the 3rd Century BC. The entire architecture, despite being extremely ancient, is completely preserved and unbelievable to see. It is after the excavation of the Gorkhatri that Peshawar was officially made the oldest city in South Asia as this revelation had pushed it two more centuries back. There are wells, sauna baths, and even a masjid. There is also a fire brigade building with a complex network of cells within. You can also marvel at the Buddha’s giant bowl that is kept there.

Jamrud Fort

This fort is located right beside another one of the spectacular sights to see which is the Bab-e-Khyber gate at the Khyber Pass. The fort is noted for its walls which are 10ft thick, making it an interesting sight to enjoy. The architecture is anciently majestic with its enormous pillars. The fort was astonishingly built in just 54 days. It is a great cultural experience to see this fort in person as well as its surrounding area which is full of tradition and history.

Peshawar is famed for its locals and their friendliness. The Pashtun people’s hospitality is legendary and you’ll have trouble paying for things as they love to give gifts! You’ll be offered green tea wherever you go by local shopkeepers and will truly feel welcomed here. The city holds great historical value and has some wonderful destinations to explore. You’ll also find delicious food wherever you go, especially great for meat lovers and those who like to eat food that is mild but supremely rich in flavor. Some of the best tourist attractions in Peshawar await you just waiting to be discovered.