Things To Do
in Nowshera

Nowshera, Pakistan is a vibrant city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, known for its rich history and strategic significance. Nestled along the Kabul River, it serves as an important trade hub connecting various regions of the country. The city boasts a blend of modern development and traditional culture, with friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the surrounding landscapes that offer a variety of outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nowshera
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Nowshera Fort, where you can explore the remnants of the ancient structure and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Head to the local bazaars to experience the vibrant markets, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and sample local street food such as samosas and pakoras.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant like Al-Maida, known for its authentic Peshawari cuisine, and take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Kabul River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Risalpur area to explore the beautiful landscapes and natural beauty, perfect for photography and relaxation.

afternoon
:

Engage with the local culture by visiting a nearby village to witness traditional crafts and possibly participate in a local cooking class.

evening
:

Conclude your trip by dining at a rooftop restaurant like Shaheen Restaurant, where you can enjoy views of the city while savoring delicious kebabs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3
🛏️Budget hotel per night$20
🚌Local transport fare$0.50
Coffee at a café$1
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport can be challenging.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Urdu speakers.
  • "Salam" - Hello
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Khair maqdam" - Welcome
  • "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
  • "Allah hafiz" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Nowshera

Visit one of these nice places.

Nowshera Fort

Offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing the essence of Nowshera.

Kabul River Banks

A scenic spot for sunset photography, showcasing the beauty of nature.

Local Bazaars

Vibrant scenes of daily life and culture, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nowshera

Nowshera offers a culinary experience rich in flavors and tradition, with a variety of dishes that reflect the local culture.

Nowshera Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chapli Kebab

A spicy minced meat patty, often served with naan and chutney, famous in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Must-Try!

Peshawari Naan

A stuffed bread filled with nuts and raisins, commonly enjoyed with curries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nowshera Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street foods, including fried snacks and sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nowshera experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). The monsoon season occurs from July to September, bringing moderate rainfall, while spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common among men, while women may greet each other with a smile and nod.

Dress Modestly

It is advisable to dress conservatively, especially in rural areas.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is highly valued in local culture; greetings and gestures should reflect that.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nowshera is relatively safe for tourists; however, it is advisable to stay informed of the local situation and avoid any areas that may be known for unrest. Basic precautions such as not displaying valuables and staying in well-populated areas are recommended. Always consult local advice regarding safety before venturing out.

Tipping in Nowshera

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, especially if service is good.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some larger establishments may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Pleasant weather with blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June to August)

Hot temperatures; stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during peak heat hours.

Autumn (September to November)

Mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter (December to February)

Cool weather, with occasional snowfall in nearby areas; dress warmly for outdoor excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Nowshera at Night

Nowshera's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, with a few local restaurants and cafes offering evening dining. The focus is more on family-friendly outings rather than bars or clubs, making it ideal for a casual night out. It's common to see families enjoying dinner together or taking evening walks along the river.

Hiking in Nowshera

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Malam Jabba Trail

A scenic trail near Malam Jabba, offering stunning views and a moderate hiking experience.

Bara Valley Trail

A challenging trail that leads through the Bara Valley, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Nowshera by plane.

Peshawar International Airport

Located about 45 km from Nowshera, it serves as the nearest major airport, offering domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nowshera is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are available in many areas, but some streets may be busy with traffic. Walking is a pleasant way to explore local bazaars and parks, but it's advisable to remain cautious of traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Pashtun Community

The majority of Nowshera's population belongs to the Pashtun ethnic group, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Muhajir Community

A significant number of Muhajirs, descendants of immigrants from India during partition, also reside in Nowshera, contributing to its cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and matches taking place regularly.

Field Hockey

Another favored sport, with local clubs and schools participating in various competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nowshera can be busy, especially during peak hours. The main roads are often congested with vehicles, but the pace is slower compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and rickshaws, which are affordable and widely used by locals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nowshera.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent in local cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; it's best to inquire with staff.

Halal

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

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nowshera vary in quality. Basic medical services are available, but for more serious conditions, residents often travel to Peshawar for better-equipped hospitals. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and access to medical care in case of emergencies.

Discover Pakistan

Read more in our Pakistan 2025 Travel Guide.

Pakistan Travel Guide