Top Ten Places to Visit in Peshawar

Peshawar is the sixth most populous city in Pakistan and capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is situated in the north-west of the country and shares border with Afghanistan. Located to the east of the famous Khyber Pass, its recorded history dates back to at least 539 BCE which ranks it one of the oldest cities in South Asia.

Chowk Yadgar

Chowk Yadgar, the most famous landmark, is located in the heart of the ،مOld City of Peshawar. The monument was built in 1892 but later dedicated to the victims of the Qissa Khwani Bazaar Massacre of 1930. Gradually the Chowk has become a popular place for religious and political gatherings. This place is surrounded by various alleyways, making it an easy stop while exploring the Old City. Because of the congested nature of the area, driving your own vehicle is not recommended. However, hiring a cab or rickshaw is the best option to explore this famous destination in Peshawar.

Mahabat Khan Masjid

A visit to Peshawar would not be complete without seeing the stunning and historically significant Mahabat Khan Masjid. This 17th century Masjid is located in the narrow twists and turns of the Old City. The architecture reflects the Mughal Era. Masjid remains in relatively good condition despite its advanced age.
This Masjid was built by the Mughal governor of Peshawar with white marble facade. The interior is equally impressive, with numerous multi coloured frescoes and a wide range of floral motifs. This Mughal masterpiece is one of the best places to visit in Peshawar.

Peshawar Museum

Peshawar museum was opened in 1907. There is an amazing collection of ancient Buddhist Gandhara artwork such as Buddhist sculptures, figurines and objects on display. The museum has the largest collection in the world, representing Buddhism which thrived in KPK in ancient times. Apart from Buddhist artefacts, Peshawar Museum displays a large collection of pre-Islamic coins, Mughal art and Kalash cultural items.

Bab-e-Khyber

Bab-e-Khyber is a well known monument at the entrance to the famous Khyber Pass, which connects Pakistan and Afghanistan. It was an important part of the old Silk Route.
The monument is about 15 kilometres from Peshawar. Although it is not technically in Peshawar, it is a worth visiting place.

Qissa Khwani Bazaar

As far as famous places in Peshawar, this popular marketplace is hard to beat. Dozens of architecturally pleasing Havelis can be found in this historical section of the Old City.
The bazaar is named after the ancient storytellers.
Qissa Khwani bazaar is a must visit for foodies, with tempting street food stalls and shops serving everything from juicy chapli kebabs to signature green tea of Peshawar, which is famous throughout Pakistan.

Shahi Bagh

The historical gardens are the best place in Peshawar. The premises of Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium encroach on the ground of historical gardens, which are still extremely popular in Peshawar. People fondly visit this place to relax. The gardens are being renovated.

Bala Hissar Fortress

This historic fortress has been in use for centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of many empires. It is now under the jurisdiction of Pakistan Frontier Corps. Bala Hissar means “high fort” in Dari language. It is said to have been named by Timur Shah Durrani, a former Afghan emperor. The fortress is located on an elevated mound in the North-Western corner of Peshawar and covers about 10 acres of land. There is a museum in the fortress, showcasing the military and Pashtun history.

Sir Cunningham Clock Tower

The Sir Cunningham Clock Tower was built in 1900. It was named after the former British governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The tower or Ghanta Ghar stands 26 metres tall. The old clock is located in the heart of Old City, which is only 200 metres from the famous Chowk Yadgar. There is no parking around Ghanta Ghar. Hiring a rickshaw is the best way to approach this famous Peshawar landmark.

Gor Khatri Temple

Gor Khatri temple is an ancient Buddhist archaeological site. The Gorakhnath Temple, a Hindu place of worship built in 1851, which is the most interesting feature of Gor Khatri temple. The temple is one of the few Hindu temples that have survived in Peshawar. It was reopened in 2011 after being closed for more than 60 years. The temple has been attacked numerous times, but it still stands today.

Islamia College

This architecturally stunning university is one of the oldest higher education institutions of Pakistan. Islamia College is a well known landmark of Peshawar, established in 1913.
The impressive buildings and landscape make it one of the most popular places to visit in the city. It is certainly worth visiting with its magnificent history.

This list is not fully comprehensive. There are numerous other hidden gems in the city of flowers that could be included. Please let me know if any other landmarks should be included.