Peshawar

{{warningbox|Peshawar has became a dangerous place to visit due to the war against Al-Qaeda and the Taliban, and other insurgents. It is not recommended that you travel to Peshawar at this time.

See also: War zone safety]] Peshawar (Pashto: پېښور‎; Urdu: پشاور) is a relatively prosperous frontier city in Pakistan near the Pakistan-Afghan border, which gives it a distinct Afghanistan|Afghan flavour. Peshawar is the capital and largest city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly known as FATA).

Peshawar sits in a large valley near the eastern end of the Khyber Pass, known as "City on the Frontier", its strategic location on the crossroads of Central Asia and South Asia has made it one of the most culturally vibrant and lively cities in the greater region. Peshawar is irrigated by various canals of the Kabul River and by its right tributary and the Bara River.

Peshawar is the major educational, political and business centre of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Peshawar's recorded history goes back as far as at least 539 BC, making it the oldest living city in South Asia.

Travel to Peshawar

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Peshawar

Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW) is in the center of Peshawar. It is served by all Pakistan carriers including national flag carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

There are domestic Flights to Peshawar Airport from Chitral, Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore.

By road

Peshawar is almost 2 hours drive from Islamabad (186kilometers/115 miles). It is connected with Islamabad via Motorway Monday - 1 and via national highway N-5.

Travel on a Bus in Peshawar

Buses and shuttle vanes run to many parts of the nation to here.

• Daewoo, [https://;Online+Booking, operates the most luxurious services to Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Multan, Faisalabad, Abbottabad and Lahore (Rs. 600 per person).

Travel by train to Peshawar

You can reach Peshawar by train with Pakistan Railway from Karachi (36 hours) and Quetta (25 hours), both are via Lahore and Rawalpindi.

There are no passenger trains from Landi Kotal in the Khyber Pass.

How to get around in Peshawar

Taxi & auto-rickshaws give Peshawar two of its most well-known traits: polluted air and clogged streets, and are the most popular way to get around the city.

Walking is another option.

What to see in Peshawar

Old Peshawar - Peshawar's "Old Town"

• The Old Downtown with the Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Bazar-e-Kalan, Clock Tower Plaza, Chowk Yadgar, Tehsil Gorgathri, Mohabbat Khan Mosque, Sunehri Masjid (Sadar), Peshawar Museum, Khyber Bazar. Parks includes Khalid bin waleed park, Shahi bagh and Wazir bagh. The traditional food of Peshawar can be purchased from Namak Mandi, Khyber Bazar. The famous "Kulfa" can be visited from Qissa Khwani Bazar from April-September every year, when there is hot weather in the city.
• Bala Hisar Fort is one of the most historic places of Peshawar. The word Bala Hisar is from Persian meaning “elevated or high fort”. Renowned historian, Dr A.H. Dani in his book "Peshawar-Historic City of Frontier" writes that when Hiuen Tsang, a Chinese traveller, visited Peshawar in 630 AD, he spoke of a "royal residence".
• Islamia College, University of Peshawar: is the first educational institution in the province built during the British rule in India.
• University of Peshawar, founded in 1950.
• Sethi Houses
• Ghor Khutree
• Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) The clock in this tower is one among the pair (second one in England) presented by the Queen Elizebeth II of the UK.
• Mahabat Khan Mosque; Mahabat Khan and the governor of Peshawar, built it in 1630 AD during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (the ruler of the Mughal Empire in India from 1628 until 1658.
• Peshawar Museum
• Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayum Museum, University of Peshawar
• Hayatabad is a posh neighbourhood of Peshawar. It includes parks like Tatara Park and Bagh-e-Naran which also has a zoo. A swimming pool.
• Villages Regi, Lakaray, Mulazi, Nasir Bagh, Palosi, Naway Kalay, Achini, Tehkal, Shahi Bala, Mathra, Pir Bala, Hazar Khawani, Rehman Baba Mazar,
• Sphola stupa: this is a 2nd century Buddhist Kushan empire remains.

Khyber road, zarai village. As it is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it requires permission of Khyber agency and FATA secretariat. You can get there by taking a taxi from Peshawar.

Best things to do in Peshawar

• In the summertime hiking tours to the mountains are offered. Ask at Green Tours in front of the Greens Hotel, Peshawar Cantt, and Pearl Tours of the Pearl Continental Hotels. This can also be done by hiring a car, jeep or pickup from local 'rent-a-car' servicing private agencies at a very affordable rates.
• Khyber Train Safari

• Shah Qabool Gems Street | Namak mandi - Gems and minerals.

• Garrison Park

Saddar Bazaar:- 1). Shopping 2). Deans shopping mall 3). Qayyum Stadium

Hayatabad:- 1). Swan swimming and Snooker (pool) 2). Tatara Park and Bagh-e-Naran Park & zoo 3). PDA building:-Arabic Chicken Shwarma, Shopping 4). Zarghuna Mosque

University Town:- 1). Iqra Chowk:- Restaurants (Bithani Plaza etc) 2). City towers and nearby:- Chief Burger, Ice cream shops, Shopping plazas, Dunkin donut.

Board Bazaar:- 1). Afghan Sadaqat juice shop 2). Afghan mantu (afghan dumplings), underground afghan restaurants 3). Shopping (from the many afghan shops)

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Peshawar

Dry Fruit Wala. Peshawar - One of the vendors in Namak Mandi.

Before going to buy anything in Peshawar, you first have to be ready to bargain. You will need to bargain at most of the shops for items especially fabric. If you are a foreigner, be careful when shopping at shops that do not have fixed prices. The shop keepers will try their best to rip you off. When you ask how much, be prepared to offer half of what they ask and then bargain from there. Also, if the price still seems to high, don't be afraid to walk away. Many times they will call you back or you can find the same thing at another shop nearby. If is best to take a local person with you when shopping at stores that require bargaining.

The old town is a good place to stock up on (Pakistani) and Afghani handicrafts. These markets are located in almost all parts of the Peshawar, most commonly at Bazar Shah Qabool Olia, Namak Mandi, Khyber Bazar, Sadar Road, etc. (maslampsh)

Shafi Market (and surrounding bazaars) in the Sadar area is one of the best places to buy clothing fabric. You will find every kind of cloth from simple everyday fabric to fabric suitable for the fanciest of occasions. The shops in Shafi Market work on a bargaining system for the most part. The market is usually very crowded, so keep a close watch on your money.

Dean's Trade Centre can be visited from Sadar Road and Sonheri Masjid Road. Many of the shop keepers who have stores on Shafi Market are also opening stores in Dean's Trade Center, however there is a lot more than just fabric at Dean's Trade Centre. In general the prices are a bit higher at Dean's Trade Center, but it is much easier to shop there as it is less crowded. Some of the stores have fixed prices, but most will bargain with you. A to Z Mart is one a great general department store in Dean's that has clothing, cosmetics, stationary, housewares, and groceries. The prices are all fixed, but very reasonable.

In the Sadar area and the best place to buy fabric at fixed prices is at R-Sheen on Arbab Road. There are a number of ready made clothing shops along Sadar Road and Arbab Road as well. Most have fixed prices, but some will still bargain a bit so don't be afraid to ask. Also on University Road there are several Big Plazas and Fashion Outlets with outstanding class and Designs. Most of them are Fixed Price, take a look in the shop if its Fixed Price they must have it displayed otherwise don't forget to bargain.

Halal Restaurants in Peshawar

• Khan's Club, Peshawar City, rated among Top 10 restaurants in Pakistan by "The News"
• Mr. Cod, Bithani Plaza, Iqra University Chowk, University Road, Peshawar.
• Chief Burger, University Town. Best fast food in town offering several kind of Burgers, Pizzas, etc.
• Clock Tower Food Street, Peshawar City, for all local and traditional spicy foods.
• Masoom's Cafe Also known as Cafe Crunch, University Town, for continental foods.
• Pearl Continental Hotel Roof Top Bar B Que, on weekends only.
• KFC.
• Mcdonalds near New Army Stadium Shami Road.
• Pizza Hut, near Old Sher Khan Shaheed Stadium Shami Road.
• Black and Yellow Lounge is a family restaurant, Sheesha & Oxygen shots spot along a good gambling lounge. More than 20 Sheesha flavours available. Burgers, fast food, Mexican, Pizzas, sandwiches, seafood and Steaks. - Bhettani Plaza, Iqra Plaza, Town. Daily 10AM - 3AM
• North West Frontier Heritage, roof top Bar B Que with live traditional music. Behind Firdos Cenima, Main GT Road.
• Habibi Restaurant (can be in city and entrance to Hayatabad) for local and traditional foods.
• Khyber friends, a small restaurant located on university road near Orakzai plaza. the food is delicious and a reasonable price.
• Chapli ('sandal') Kabab, a flat beef Kebab, one of the famous dishes of Peshawar. Several famous kabab selling shops are around. Information about them can be obtained from the travel agents or local hotels and guides. To name a few: Jalil Kabab House near Hayatabad Entrance is the most popular also you can find some others near the Ring Road Hayatabad
• Faluda, a sweet dish mainly found on the Peshawar markets and bazaars especially Qisa-Khwani Bazaar.
• Fried Fish is also another good treat, it can be found in Jalil Kabab House and some other restaurants near Hayatabad on Ring Road.
• Easy to eat and everywhere available "Samosa" and "Pakora"

Peshawarkawa - |A pot of Kawa, known as "Green Tea"

Peshawar is known for its Kawa (Green Tea) which has a unique flavour, and is usually served sweet.

Sharbat-e-Sandal is a sweet, non-carbonated drink unusually found in markets in summer. It has a good taste and a yellowish-green transparent colour - look out for the black seeds. Served ice cold.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a dry state, making alcohol hard to come by.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Peshawar

Peshawar - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Peshawar, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Peshawar. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Peshawar and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Peshawar. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Peshawar. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inPeshawar: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Peshawar.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Peshawar: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Peshawar, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Peshawar.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Peshawar, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Peshawar, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Peshawar and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Peshawar, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Peshawar, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Peshawar without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Peshawar is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Peshawar.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Peshawar is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Peshawar, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Peshawar Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• The Rose Hotel, Khyber Bazaar, Shoba Chowk, +92-91-250-755. Good sized and fairly clean rooms with attached bath in a large, secure building. Parking is available. Another popular place to meet others, and the office can arrange trips to the Khyber Pass and other areas, but at a premium. Doubles from Rs. 400-600 w/cable tv and en suite bathroom. They can put you in touch with a couple of good guides. They can be contacted by asking at the reception.
• Amin Hotel, main GT Road

• Greens Hotel, Saddar Road, (1 block west of Tourist Inn Motel), +92-91-270-182. A nice mid-range hotel, with a decent restaurant. Rooms from Rs. 1200.
• Hotel Grand, Tehkal Road, Peshawar. Room prices start from Rs. 1000.

• Pearl Continental - Khyber Road near Bala Hissar Fort ☎ +92-91-276-631 The nicest hotel in the city, 5-star standards, with a few restaurants, a business centre with internet (Rs. 400/hour), and a swimming pool. Room prices start from Rs. 10,000.

• Khan's Club, in Peshawar Downtown. Standards are high but surrounded in a crowded area.

Stay Safe

Before going to Peshawar, check for travel advisories from your government's website, as these regions have become volatile and unstable, with fighting between the Taliban forces and (Pakistani) military. Peshawar is the home of several ethnic and religious groups and has had a number of terrorist attacks in recent years.

There were several bomb blasts in or near the old city in October 2006. 49 were killed in a Taliban attack in Peshawar in October 2009.

Police sergeants can be found in the streets and roads to ensure safety.

As a stranger, and therefore a guest, you can usually rely on the support of people around you should something or someone feel threatening. When you are there, obey their laws and don't behave in a supposed 'foreigner' way.

• Go north (although not recommended for foreigners) to the Swat District (Kalam valley), Upper Dir District (Kumrat Valley) or Chitral District. Several areas bordering on Peshawar and the agencies, are administered by tribal authorities only, and outside the control of the regular police. Entry to these areas can be dangerous for foreigners.
• The Khyber Pass is one hour away and could normally be visited by taking a taxi, but due to Pakistan's security situation it is imfeasible to visit the Khyber Pass, and it would be extremely dangerous if you could.

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