Introduction
Places to visit in Peshawar at night: Peshawar, the capital of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is a historic and culturally rich destination that provides a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Peshawar, often known as the “City of Flowers,” has several popular sites that draw visitors from all over the world.
The old Qissa Khawani Bazaar is one of Peshawar’s must-see attractions. This lively market has been a hub of trade and commerce for generations, with colorful stores, traditional handicrafts, and delicious street food vendors. Another well-known site is the Peshawar Museum, which has a vast collection of historical artifacts, including Gandhara sculptures and antique coins.
Best places to visit in Peshawar at Night
Bala Hisar Fort
Although you may prefer spontaneous escapades that take you into people’s homes and reveal little-known treasures off the usual route, it is still a good idea to have an end goal in mind before embarking on all of your side journeys into Peshawar’s back alleys. Arguably the most popular sight is the Bala Hisar Fort, which is located in the heart of the city off the N5 Highway. With marketplaces built around the sides of the fort’s enormous walls, the rest of the city appears to be waves breaking against its ramparts.
The stronghold appears gorgeous from the exterior and offers breathtaking views from the tops of its towers, but don’t get too enthusiastic if you’re a foreign visitor. Although the Bala Hissar Fort is a famous tourist destination for Pakistani nationals, international visitors would be screamed at for merely photographing the fort’s entrance. As a country fresh to the concept of foreign tourists, many of the rules appear vague. Many of the old castles have been occupied by the Pakistani army, as have many of the forts in the region.
Mohabbat Khan Mosque
The Mohabbat Khan Mosque was built during the late Mughal period of Shah Jehan and Aurangzeb. And it was the governor at the time, Mohabbat Khan, who erected this pilgrimage. This mosque is a stunning and excellent example of Mughal architecture. It will also leave you feeling incredibly inspired. The mosque’s roof offers a glimpse of the huge and open courtyard.
Peshawar Museum
The Peshawar Museum, located across the tracks from the Old City, houses the world’s greatest collection of Gandharan art, which includes statues and friezes depicting the Buddha’s life as well as winged cupids and Herculean heroes. It’s a dizzying stylebook of Graeco-Bactrian art, albeit occasionally let down by bad labeling (also see the Graeco-Bactrian money concealed upstairs).
There’s a tiny Islamic collection with some lovely illustrated books, as well as an ethnographic area with wooden effigies found in a Kalasha graveyard, featuring an ancestor figure riding a two-headed horse.
Shahi Bagh
Shahi Bagh is situated in Faqirabad, Peshawar. The literal translation of “Shahi Bagh” in local languages is “The Royal Park”. The park covers over 100 acres and was established during the reign of the Mughals. It has substantial recreational and historical value to the city and its citizens. According to the government, the garden is both a national heritage monument and public property. Shahi Bagh is particularly famous among students. In the past, students would go to the park for recreational activities as well as to study.
Qissa Khwani Bazaar
Qissa Khwani Bazaar, located in the heart of Peshawar, is one of Pakistan’s most popular attractions. Translated as “The Street of Storytellers,” this bustling market has a rich history spanning centuries. This lively market was once a meeting spot for travelers, traders, and storytellers who came together to swap stories and trade goods.
Visiting the Qissa Khwani Bazaar is like stepping back in time. The tiny alleyways are lined with ancient buildings, lending the area a distinct and old-world feel. The market is well-known for its colorful shops, which sell a variety of traditional things such as handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, spices, and antiques.
Aside from shopping, Qissa Khwani Bazaar provides an authentic cultural experience. The market is famed for its street food, which includes delectable traditional dishes including kebabs, samosas, and pakoras. Remember to try the popular Peshawari Chai, a sweet and milky tea that is a local favorite.
Qissa Khwani Bazaar is rich in history and has witnessed many notable events. It played an important role in Pakistan’s independence movement, where protests and gatherings occurred. While wandering the market, be sure to mingle with the pleasant inhabitants, who are famed for their great hospitality. They will gladly tell interesting stories about the market and Peshawar’s past.
Cunningham Clock Tower
Cunningham Clock Tower, located in Peshawar, Pakistan, is a spectacular historical relic and one of the city’s most popular attractions. Built in 1900, this renowned clock tower stands tall in the lively Saddar neighborhood, providing a gathering place for both locals and visitors.
The tower honours Sir George Cunningham, the province’s then-British governor who played an important role in Peshawar’s development during the colonial era. The tower’s architecture combines British and Mughal elements, with complex details and great craftsmanship. Visitors can appreciate the grandeur of the Cunningham Clock Tower from the surrounding region, as it sits at an outstanding height. The vivid surroundings contribute to the allure, with bustling markets, shops, and cafés offering a unique cultural experience.
The tower is not open to the public, but its outward beauty and historical value make it a must-see destination, particularly for history buffs and architecture fans. Many people enjoy taking photographs with this renowned structure in the background because it creates a picturesque environment. Furthermore, the Cunningham Clock Tower acts as a focal point for city navigation, allowing visitors to easily explore neighboring attractions and monuments. Its central location in Peshawar provides easy access to other prominent attractions such as the Peshawar Museum, Qissa Khwani Bazaar, and Old City.
When visiting the Cunningham Clock Tower, it is recommended that you follow local customs and dress modestly to respect the region’s cultural values. It is equally critical to schedule your visit during daytime hours and to be cautious of personal belongings in crowded areas. Overall, the Cunningham Clock Tower is an outstanding representation of Peshawar’s rich history and architectural legacy. Its magnificent presence, paired with its central location, makes it a must-see for tourists looking to experience the main attractions of this bustling metropolis in Pakistan.
