A day excursion to Peshawar from Islamabad offers a rich blend of history, culture, and architecture. As the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Peshawar is not only the largest Pashtun-majority city in Pakistan but also one of the country’s most culturally vibrant centers. Known for its bustling bazaars, rich cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere, Peshawar showcases a mix of ancient traditions and modern developments. The city was once famous as the “City of Flowers,” thanks to its gardens and scenic beauty, and today still retains much of its historic charm.

Historically, Peshawar was the capital of the Gandhara civilization, making it an important site for those interested in ancient Buddhist history. Once called Parasawara or Purusapura, meaning the “abode of Purusa,” the city played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism. Its strategic location made it a major trading hub and cultural crossroad between Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The remnants of this period can still be explored in the city’s museums and historical landmarks, such as the Peshawar Museum, which houses Gandharan art and Buddhist relics.

The Mughal emperor Akbar renamed the city “Peshawar,” meaning “frontier town,” recognizing its strategic importance as a gateway to Central Asia. Today, visitors can explore its Mughal heritage through landmarks like the Mahabat Khan Mosque, built during the Mughal era. The vibrant Qissa Khwani Bazaar, or “Storytellers’ Market,” is another must-visit, where traders and travelers from Central Asia once gathered to share tales. A day trip to Peshawar offers visitors an enriching experience filled with cultural discoveries and historical insights.