Things To Do
in Peshawar

Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is one of the oldest cities in Pakistan with a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. Known for its vibrant culture and historical significance, it has been a crossroads of various civilizations, including the Greeks and the Mughals. The city is famous for its traditional Pashtun hospitality, bustling bazaars, and delicious cuisine.

Peshawar is also a gateway to the scenic northern regions of Pakistan, making it a blend of urban life and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Peshawar
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Peshawar Museum to explore artifacts from the Gandhara civilization.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar for lunch and shopping, experiencing the lively atmosphere and local crafts.

evening
:

Visit the Peshawar Fort for panoramic views of the city and enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the historic Bala Hisar Fort, a symbol of Peshawar’s rich past and military importance.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the nearby Khyber Pass, where you can witness stunning landscapes and learn about its historical significance.

evening
:

Return to the city for a leisurely evening stroll in the Shalimar Park and enjoy street food for dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3
Coffee$1
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.30
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20
📱SIM Card$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history to explore.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Warm and hospitable locals.
  • Security concerns may affect travel plans.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Urdu speakers.
  • "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
  • "Khuda Hafiz" - Goodbye
  • "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?

Places to Visit in Peshawar

Visit one of these nice places.

Bala Hisar Fort

A historic fort offering stunning views of the city and a glimpse into Peshawar’s past.

Qissa Khwani Bazaar

The vibrant market is perfect for capturing the essence of local life and culture.

Khyber Pass

A breathtaking natural landscape that is rich in history, ideal for scenic photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Peshawar

Peshawar is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of traditional Pashtun dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Peshawar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chapli Kebab

A flavorful minced meat patty seasoned with spices, herbs, and served with naan or rice.

Must-Try!

Peshawari Naan

A traditional bread stuffed with nuts and dried fruits, perfect for pairing with curries.

Kabuli Pulao

A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, raisins, and carrots, offering a delightful taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qissa Khwani Bazaar

A bustling market known for its street food stalls serving a variety of snacks and local dishes.

Peshawar Food Street

A popular spot for street food lovers, offering everything from kebabs to sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Peshawar experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C, while winters are cooler, averaging between 5-15°C. Rainfall is minimal, mostly occurring in the monsoon season from July to September. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common, but it is respectful to greet elders first and use appropriate titles.

Dress Code

Modest clothing is advised, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Hospitality

Pashtun culture values hospitality; if invited for a meal, it is courteous to accept.

Safety Guide

Safety

Peshawar has seen security concerns in the past, but the situation has improved significantly in recent years. It is advisable to stay updated with local news, avoid high-risk areas, and follow the guidance of local authorities. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Peshawar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some restaurants may accept credit/debit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Mild weather makes it an ideal time for sightseeing, with blooming flowers and vibrant local activities.

Summer (June to August)

Expect hot and dry conditions, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September to November)

Temperatures begin to cool, making it a pleasant season for exploring the city and its surroundings.

Winter (December to February)

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; dress warmly if you plan to visit during this time.

Nightlife Guide

Peshawar at Night

Peshawar's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to major cities like Karachi or Lahore. However, there are a few cafes and restaurants that stay open late, where locals gather for casual dining and conversations. Traditional music and dance performances can sometimes be found, especially during festivals.

Hiking in Peshawar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khyber Pass Trail

A scenic trail offering a rich historical context and stunning mountain views along the famous Khyber Pass.

Malam Jabba Hike

Located a bit further out, this trail leads to a beautiful hill station known for its lush greenery and skiing slopes.

Airports

How to reach Peshawar by plane.

Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW)

Located about 30 km from the city center, this airport serves domestic flights and limited international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers to and from Peshawar.

Getting Around

Walkability

Peshawar's city center is relatively walkable, with many attractions located close to each other, especially around the historic bazaars. However, some areas may have uneven sidewalks and busy streets, so caution is advised. It's best to explore on foot during the cooler parts of the day.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Pashtuns

The majority ethnic group in Peshawar, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Muhajirs

Refugees and their descendants who migrated from India during the partition, contributing to the city's diverse culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a national passion, with many local matches and tournaments held throughout the year.

Field Hockey

Another popular sport in the region, with local clubs and schools actively participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Peshawar can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and rickshaws, which are affordable but can be crowded. It's best to plan your travel times accordingly and consider using ride-hailing apps for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Peshawar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like lentil curries and vegetable biryani.

Halal Food

All food in Peshawar is halal, catering to Muslim dietary laws.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Peshawar has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical services, but the quality may vary. Major hospitals include Lady Reading Hospital and Khyber Teaching Hospital, which cater to emergencies and general health issues. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical expenses.

Discover Pakistan

Read more in our Pakistan 2025 Travel Guide.

Pakistan Travel Guide