Introduction
Peshawar is the oldest and most populated city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with a history reaching back thousands of years. The metropolis has seen numerous notable infrastructure projects in recent years, including the introduction of Peshawar BRT and the city’s very own Ring Road Project. Peshawar is the provincial capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the region’s largest metropolis. One of the things that distinguishes Peshawar is its cultural variety, which can be seen in many of its traditional market areas and old bazaars. So, if you wish to visit this vibrant city in KPK and are seeking some pointers, we’ve got you covered.
Peshawar is the friendliest huge city. It’s also pretty conservative, something you should bear in mind. Women travelers, in particular, should dress modestly (length sleeves, long loose slacks or skirt), as should males, who should avoid wearing shorts. A shalwar kameez is a terrific option (for both), especially in the heat, and I wore a headscarf the most of the trip because you didn’t see a single lady without at least a scarf (most had their faces covered as well).
Is Peshawar Worth Traveling To?
Peshawar, located directly at the entrance to the famed Khyber Pass, has seen innumerable armies and statesmen march through its gates. From the Persian Darius I to the Royal British Army, several civilizations have left their imprint on the city of Peshawar. There are several ruins and forts scattered over the surrounding region, all left behind from previous Kingdoms. With a centuries-long history, there are enough ancient structures and distinctive traditions to keep the ordinary traveler busy for weeks exploring the back alleyways and bazaars.
Winding marketplaces and antique mosques are nothing new to anybody who has spent time in Pakistan, let alone South Asia. So, what makes Peshawar worth visiting? Of course, you’ll discover many of the same items as in Rawalpindi’s bazaars or Lahore’s Walled City. Unplanned adventures, on the other hand, will make Peshawar one of the most memorable cities on your vacation to Pakistan. While you’re gazing up at that magnificent colonial-era structure, the owner could come out and offer you a tour over a cup of tea. While exploring the small alleyways, you may come across a comical character smoking Esfand, a traditional Zoroastrian purification ritual. It is not necessarily what you want to accomplish in Peshawar that will make it a vacation of a lifetime, but rather the unexpected events you encounter.
Tourism and Traditional Bazaars in Peshawar
When it comes to tourism in Peshawar, the city is well-known for its historic bazaars and gastronomic pleasures. When discussing Peshawar’s cultural and historic bazaars, the term Qissa Khawani Bazaar (Story Teller’s Bazaar) stands out. The city was formerly a key stopover for traders traveling the Silk Road. People used to stop here to rest, take a break, and share their experiences. This is how the bazaar gained its distinctive moniker.
Traveling to Peshawar as a gourmet would expose you to a wide range of traditional dishes. The Khyber region’s residents like eating meaty foods. This is why you’ll find most restaurants in Peshawar serving different types of Karahi, Kebabs, and rice dishes that are more salty and less hot.
Peshawar is also famed for its very delectable ‘Chapli Kebabs’. The recipe for these kebabs is also from the Khyber area. Chapli Kebabs are huge minced beef patties seasoned with traditional seasonings. This Peshawar specialty is now accessible in restaurants all over the world. So, if you’re planning a trip to Peshawar, don’t forget to try Chapli Kebabs. They are readily accessible in many of Peshawar’s traditional eateries.
Day Trips From Peshawar
There are various day tours and half-day journeys from Peshawar that you may take to get out and experience more of the attractions near the Khyber Pass. For some visitors visiting Peshawar, Peshawar University and Islamia College are among the best sites to visit. While the building is stunning and you may always try to visit, you may have difficulties owing to the gates being controlled by quite strict security. As you go farther down the Great Trunk Road towards Afghanistan, you will come upon the notorious Smugglers Bazaar (also known as Karkhano Market). Previously notorious for selling military-grade weaponry and illicit substances, this bazaar now sells rice cookers and crockpots rather than machine guns.
The Bab-e-Khyber Gate is one of Pakistan’s most recognizable emblems, not just in Peshawar. This landmark gate spanning the highway goes directly to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and the famed Khyber Pass. Despite the photographs you see on the internet of visitors standing in front of the gate, visiting is not as simple as you may imagine. Even though the Bab-e-Khyber Gate is only 15 kilometers from Peshawar, authorities frequently turn away international visitors who want to visit the town where the gate is located.
Traveling to Peshawar
Peshawar is not only safe, but it is no longer categorized as a black tourism destination. For years, thrill seekers have traveled to western Pakistan in quest of venues like the Smugglers Bazaar and Darra Adam Khel’s Arms Bazaar to witness a side of local culture that many people would rather forget. Today, Pakistan and Peshawar are emerging as models for how a country may overcome the insecurity brought on by decades of conflict and extremism. Pakistan has even begun to lead the globe with its example, rebuilding both its economy and public image.
Visitors will still receive a thrill from visiting Peshawar today, not because of any risk, but because of the high of venturing into the unknown. Much of Pakistan remains untapped and unexplored by individuals living outside the nation. Simply roaming the alleys of the markets will introduce you to the people and teach you about some of the most beautiful areas on the earth that are still relatively unknown to the rest of the world. There are certain to be plenty of things to do in Peshawar, but part of the joy is discovering things that the tourism industry has yet to discover.
Conclusion
In recent years, Peshawar has seen an increase in the number of female tourists discovering its numerous attractions. The city’s historical buildings, colorful marketplaces, and cultural legacy have attracted visitors from all walks of life, especially female tourists. Many visitors have had excellent experiences, praising the friendliness of the residents and the interesting tapestry of the city’s attractions.
To increase safety, women travelers should dress modestly according to local customs, follow cultural standards, and be mindful of their surroundings. Using trusted transportation and staying in well-reviewed hotels also helps to ensure a safer trip. While there are hurdles, many women have successfully navigated Peshawar by exercising care and appreciating the city’s distinctive features.
