Peshawar is an ancient city set at the entrance to the storied Khyber Pass that connects Pakistan and Afghanistan. The city has a rich architectural heritage, with magnificent Mughal mosques and Hindu temples standing alongside British colonial monuments and grand Victorian buildings. Explore the famous market, admire a 16th-century mosque and visit one of the top museums in Pakistan.
Things to do in Peshawar
Admire a treasure trove of Gandharan art at the Peshawar Museum. The museum is housed in a beautiful Victorian building and filled with paintings, statues and ancient artefacts. Within the galleries, you’ll find gem-encrusted jewellery, traditional Persian handicrafts and centuries-old versions of the Quran.
From clothes, jewellery and electronics to guns and narcotics, Smugglers' Bazaar has a notorious reputation. Goods are imported through Peshawar to Afghanistan, and then smuggled back to Pakistan to avoid taxes. The market is fascinating but has a Wild West feel and is best explored with a guide.
Mahabat Khan Mosque soars over the city and welcomes you with a gleaming white marble façade. It was built in the 1600s during the reign of a Mughal emperor and features a beautiful interior decorated with glazed tiles. Hire a guide to learn more about the unique history of the mosque.
Built by a Mughal emperor and later commandeered by the British, Bala Hisar Fort has a fascinating past. Climb up to the ramparts for sweeping views over the city and bustling Grand Trunk Road. Visit the small on-site museum to find out more about the fort’s past.
Getting around Peshawar
Parts of Peshawar are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while taxis and tuk-tuks are a fast and affordable option for longer distances. The city is a 2.5-hour drive from Islamabad and Islamabad International Airport.