Things To Do
in Khanpur

Khanpur is a vibrant town located in the Haripur District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Nestled between the picturesque hills and the stunning Khanpur Dam, it serves as a popular getaway for both locals and tourists. The town is known for its historical significance, with several ancient sites nearby, and its lively markets that showcase local craftsmanship.

Khanpur's friendly atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Khanpur
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Khanpur Dam for a picturesque sunrise. You can enjoy boating or just take a leisurely stroll along the dam's edge.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade crafts. Don't forget to sample some local street food like samosas and jalebi.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing walk by the dam to catch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the ancient ruins of the nearby Buddhist Stupas at Shahbaz Garhi, which offer insights into the region's rich history.

afternoon
:

Explore the local handicrafts and textiles in the market, and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance if available, or spend the evening mingling with locals at a popular café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3
Cup of tea$0.50
🚌Local bus fare$0.30
🏨Night in a budget hotel$20
🍦Ice cream cone$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be unreliable.
  • Language barrier for non-Urdu speakers.
  • "السلام علیکم" - Peace be upon you
  • "شکریہ" - Thank you
  • "آپ کیسے ہیں؟" - How are you?
  • "مجھے مدد کی ضرورت ہے" - I need help
  • "کتنا ہے؟" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Khanpur

Visit one of these nice places.

Khanpur Dam

Capture breathtaking views of the dam, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Shahbaz Garhi Stupas

The ancient stupas provide a historical backdrop for photography with scenic hills in the background.

Local Market

Colorful stalls and lively vendors make for vibrant and candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khanpur

Khanpur offers a rich culinary experience with an array of local dishes that reflect the flavors of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The town’s food scene is vibrant, featuring everything from street food stalls to family-run restaurants.

Khanpur Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chapli Kebab

A spicy minced meat patty, often served with naan and chutney.

Must-Try!

Peshawari Naan

A type of bread stuffed with nuts and raisins, perfect for pairing with curries.

Biryani

A fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khanpur Bazaar

A bustling market where vendors sell an array of street food, including kebabs, chaat, and sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khanpur has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). The monsoon season lasts from July to September, bringing occasional rains and cooler temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

It's important to dress modestly, especially in rural and traditional areas.

Greetings

A polite greeting is customary; a handshake is common, and it's respectful to greet elders first.

Respect for Religion

Be mindful of local customs and practices, especially during prayer times.

Safety Guide

Safety

Khanpur is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items in public and be cautious in crowded areas. It's advisable to stay updated on local news and travel advisories.

Tipping in Khanpur

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and exploring local flora.

Summer

Expect hot weather; early morning or late evening outings are ideal for comfort.

Autumn

Cool and pleasant, this season offers clear skies and ideal conditions for photography.

Winter

Chilly temperatures may limit outdoor activities, but the town's ambiance is cozy and festive.

Nightlife Guide

Khanpur at Night

Khanpur's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities. However, there are a few local cafes and restaurants that stay open late, where you can enjoy tea or snacks. Occasionally, cultural nights with music and dance are organized, providing a glimpse into the local traditions.

Hiking in Khanpur

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Margalla Hills Trail

A popular hiking trail with varying difficulty levels, offering stunning views of Islamabad and the surrounding landscapes.

Nathia Gali Trail

Located a bit further away, this trail leads through scenic pine forests and provides an opportunity to see diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Khanpur by plane.

Islamabad International Airport

Located about 50 km from Khanpur, this is the nearest major airport, providing international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khanpur is moderately walkable, with many local amenities and attractions within walking distance. The town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, but be prepared for some uneven sidewalks and occasional traffic on the roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Pashtuns

The majority of the population belongs to the Pashtun ethnic group, known for their rich cultural traditions.

Muhajirs

Another significant demographic group includes Muhajirs, who migrated from India during partition and have integrated well into local society.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in the region, with locals often playing in parks or open fields.

Football

Football is also widely played, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Khanpur is generally manageable, with most people using motorcycles or bicycles for short distances. Public transportation includes local buses and rickshaws, which are inexpensive but may not always follow a set schedule.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khanpur.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm preparation methods.

Halal Food

All food in Khanpur is halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Khanpur include local clinics and hospitals. While basic services are available, for specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities such as Abbottabad or Peshawar. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Pakistan

Read more in our Pakistan 2025 Travel Guide.

Pakistan Travel Guide