5 Best Places to Visit in Peshawar - Pakistan

Travelling across historic city of Pakistan – Peshawar – attracts all historians and youths, either with family or friends. However, the query that pops-up the mind of millions, usually during vacations, is the choice of places to visit. In this blog, I will help you to choose the places for a two to three days visit in Peshawar.

    Nothing can match the serenity of capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Peshawar, which is the sixth largest and one of the oldest cities in South Asia. The city can be accessed from capital of Pakistan mainly by means of two roads i.e., grand trunk road, and motorway M-1. The former is denied due to heavy traffic and bumpy road drive, while the latter is recommended due to mobility and less time consuming. As soon as you leave motorway, you will be entering into the ‘city of flowers’ – a city famous for its food and tourism. Further surfing towards main city, you will be surrounded by the old ancient city of Peshawar. Historically, the city is rich in culture, ancient buildings, century old famous architecture, and traditional food restaurants. Therefore, the city can add a good taste to your taste buds; as well as, it can also add your travel catalog with an exciting list. This blog will educate you regarding five exotic places which must be visited in Peshawar.

Mahabat Khan Mosque

Historical Mosques, essential value in Islam, has an impact upon the people and society. Mahabat Khan Mosque in Peshawar, basically, is a 17^th century Mughal-era mosque – built in 1630. While entering into the mosque, its open courtyard has an ablution pool in the middle and white marbled floor, which is considered as the most iconic sights. The prayer hall occupies the west side flanked by two tall minarets. According to the turn-of-the-century Gazetteer for Pakhtunkhwa, the minarets were frequently used during Sikh times ‘as a substitute for the gallows’. Furthermore, you will see the most spectacular interior sight of the prayer hall, which sheltered beneath the beautifully designed three domes structure and is heavily painted with floral and geometric designs. Once you visit, you will always wish to visit, and enjoy the scerinity of this mystically designed mosque.

Bala Hisar Fort

Bala Hisar fort – a little known wonder – stands on raised ground in the northwestern side of Peshawar city. The fort was once used as a royal residence by Durrani Empire, and it was rebuilt during Sikh and British rules. Not long ago, fort used to be at the skirts of the old historic city of Peshawar; now-a-days, the construction of new infrastructure has covered voids between the old city and the fort. However, the fort’s position on a height gives a panoramic view of Peshawar. On a clear day, you can also see the mountains surrounding the Peshawar valley and beyond. Moreover, a tea time with family above the top portion will be suffice to enjoy the glowing sunset view.

Peshawar Museum

Peshawar Museum is one of the most popular museums in south-east Asia especially for its Buddhist sculptures from Gandhara. Museum is founded in 1907. It has been notable for its collection of Buddhist artwork dating from the ancient Gandhara region. Surprisingly, you will observe that its red bricks building consist of a spacious hall – containing side galleries: two on the ground and two on upper story. Similarly, the main hall and three galleries are reserved for exhibition of Ghundhara Sculptures, terracotta figurines, lithic inscriptions, toilet, trays, and household objects, etc. You will, undoubtedly, surprised to see the colossal standing Buddha and a large number of Buddha heads in various sizes both in stone and stucco. Therefore, take your time and explore the history at your own pace. This museum will trace back your mind to the ages of old Ghandara civilization.

Ghanta Ghar (Clock House)

Ghanta Ghar, literally means clock house, is another place to visit in Peshawar. Tower was built in 1900 in commemoration of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. The clock tower was named the Cunningham Clock Tower after Sir George Cunningham, the then British governor and political agent in the province. It is at 2 kilometers drive from Bala Hisar fort in the congested populated old city. Historically, it was once damaged during Indo-Pak war, when an Indian pilot mistook it for the air strip – which was then rebuilt. Consequently, you can visit this tower from your vehicle, moving forward towards Chowk Yadgar – a few hundred meters from this location. This place will also give you historic vibes.  

University of Peshawar

The University of Peshawar (UoP) was founded in 1950 and offers programs for undergraduate, post-graduate, and doctoral studies. The university comprises of approximately 14,000 students with forty postgraduate departments as well as two centers of excellence. The university is known for its research in social, medical, and natural sciences. While entering into the university, you will observe a clear difference in temperature – which will refresh your mind and soul – ultimately, this place is a green spot in the city. Parallel to it, you can also visit other historical institutions near-by, which include: Islamia College University, Khyber Medical College, Forest college, Agriculture university, Sheikh Zaid Islamic Center, and University of Engineering and Technology. I will, therefore, recommend a must visit to Islamia College University, Peshawar.

         To sum up, Peshawar, undoubtedly, is a city worth visiting. There is much more to be visited in the city; along with, the taste of Peshawari foods is excellent – one can never find elsewhere. This city has recently added an excellent transportation facility, Bus Rapid Service (BRT), which can give the vibes of travel in a foreign city. Moreover, not only its scenic beauty but also its cultural heritage and historic infrastructure can attract millions from all over the world. Hence, it is recommended to visit once in a life to Peshawar.

My First Article on CPF