Khyber Pass Travel Guide

Explore the history, culture, food, and natural beauty of Khyber Pass with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out about the best places to stay, eat, and visit in Khyber Pass and plan your trip now!


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Khyber Pass

Khyber Pass is an iconic mountain pass in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, attracting tourists from all over the world. This historical route has been used for centuries as a trade route between Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Today, visitors can explore the stunning landscapes, taste local cuisine, and discover the rich cultural heritage of this region. In this guide, we will help you plan your trip to Khyber Pass with insights into the top things to do, places to visit, food, and culture.

Introduction to Khyber Pass

Khyber Pass is situated in the northwest region of Pakistan and is among the most recognized and significant mountain passes in the world. It is over 50 kilometers long and connects Peshawar in Pakistan to Jalalabad in Afghanistan. The region is nestled in the Khyber Mountains, which range from 1,000 to 25,000 feet, and serves as a vital trade route connecting many Central Asian countries to South Asia.

List of Places to Visit in Khyber Pass

Khyber Pass has an abundance of sites to see and explore. Here are a few essential places to visit during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Khyber Pass Museum: Located in the Jamrud Fort, this museum showcases the history of Khyber Pass through paintings, calligraphy, and artifacts.
  2. Takht-e-Babri: An ancient throne that was used by various Afghan rulers who declared themselves as “King of Kings” and sat on it.
  3. Jamrud Fort: Built by the British to defend the area from Afghan attacks, Jamrud Fort offers a glimpse into the colonial-era architecture and strategic planning.

Natural Attractions of Khyber Pass: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Landi Kotal: The highest railway station in the world, it offers scenic views of the Khyber Pass and is a popular trekking spot.
  2. Torkham Border market: A bustling market where local traders sell a variety of goods such as spices, handmade crafts, and textiles.
  3. Khyber Train Safari: A train tour through the winding Khyber Pass that offers stunning views and a unique experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Khyber Pass

  1. The Landi Kotal Loop: A 16-kilometer hike that takes you through the Khyber Hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
  2. The Khyber Pass Trail: A 7-day hike through the Khyber Pass that takes you through scenic valleys, gorges, villages, and ancient forts.

Best Things to Do in Khyber Pass: Activities and Tours

  1. Attend a local tribal dance performance: Experience the vibrant music and dance traditions of the indigenous tribes of Khyber Pass.
  2. Visit the Mausoleum of Akbar Khan: Akbar Khan was a popular Afghan resistance leader who fought against the British in the 19th century.
  3. Take a hot air balloon ride: Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Khyber Pass from a hot air balloon as you float over the picturesque valleys and hills.

Week-Long Itinerary for Khyber Pass

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Peshawar and check into a hotel
2 Visit the Khyber Pass Museum and Jamrud Fort
3 Take the Khyber Train Safari and explore the Torkham Border market
4 Go on a hot air balloon ride and trek through the Landi Kotal Loop
5 Visit Takht-e-Babri and the Mausoleum of Akbar Khan
6 Go on a 7-day trek through Khyber Pass
7 Depart from Peshawar

Food and Drink Scene of Khyber Pass

Khyber Pass is known for its unique blend of flavors and spices in its cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chapli Kebab: A spicy mince kebab that is popular in Peshawar and Khyber Pass.
  2. Peshawari Charsi Tikka: A spicy barbecue dish made with beef.
  3. Kebab Rosh: A famous lamb stew with spinach and kidney beans.

Local Beverages

  1. Qahwa: A traditional green tea with cardamom and cinnamon.
  2. Sharbat: A refreshing drink made with fruits, sugar, and water.

Where to Stay in Khyber Pass: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Khyber Pass offers a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are a few recommendations:

  1. Pearl Continental Peshawar: A luxury hotel located near the center of Peshawar, offering world-class amenities and comfort.
  2. Shelton’s Rezidor: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Peshawar with clean rooms and excellent service.
  3. Khyber Safari Resort: A resort located in the foothills of the Khyber Mountains offering stunning views and adventure activities.

What to Buy in Khyber Pass: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Khyber Pass is known for its high-quality handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Here are a few recommendations for souvenirs and local products:

  1. Peshawari Chappal: A traditional leather sandal popular in Khyber Pass.
  2. Handwoven rugs and carpets: Khyber Pass is famous for its high-quality handwoven rugs and carpets.
  3. Spices: Khyber Pass is home to a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.

Local Culture and Customs of Khyber Pass

Khyber Pass is home to several tribes, including the Afridis, Orakzais, Khattaks, and Mohmands. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness. However, it is advisable to respect their cultural customs and dress modestly while exploring the region.

Best Time to Visit Khyber Pass

The best time to visit Khyber Pass is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The summers are hot and humid, while the winters can get chilly, with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Khyber Pass

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and dress modestly.
  2. Try the local cuisine and go on a food tour.
  3. Engage with the locals and learn about their culture.

Don’t:

  1. Travel alone outside of tourist areas.
  2. Take pictures of the locals without their consent.
  3. Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Khyber Pass

Khyber Pass is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as not traveling alone outside of tourist areas and avoiding protests, demonstrations, and political gatherings.

Health in Khyber Pass

The tap water in Khyber Pass is not potable, and visitors should only drink bottled water. Visitors should also get vaccinated against typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and polio before traveling to Khyber Pass.

Getting to Khyber Pass: Transportation Options and Logistics

Khyber Pass can be accessed via road or air transport. Visitors can take direct flights to Peshawar International Airport, which is located about 35km from Khyber Pass. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus, hire a taxi or rent a car from Islamabad or Peshawar.

Airports Near Khyber Pass

  1. Peshawar International Airport (PEW)

Bus Stations Near Khyber Pass

  1. Peshawar Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Taxis are readily available within Peshawar, and visitors can hire a taxi for about $8-10 per hour.
  2. Rental cars are also available, and visitors can rent a car for about $60-70 per day.

How to Get Around in Khyber Pass

Hiring a taxi is the most convenient way to get around Khyber Pass. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to access the various destinations in and around the region.

Where to Go Next from Khyber Pass: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Peshawar: A bustling city famous for its historical landmarks and local cuisine.
  2. Islamabad: The capital city of Pakistan, located about 190km from Khyber Pass, offering modern amenities and attractions.

Conclusion

Khyber Pass is a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Khyber Pass and explore all the region has to offer. From trekking to trying local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this scenic mountain pass.

1910 painting of the legendary Khyber Rifles para-military force, which first formed in 1878. 1910 painting of the legendary Khyber Rifles para-military force, which first formed in 1878. The gate to the Khyber Pass, ''Bab-e-Khyber''. The gate to the Khyber Pass, ''Bab-e-Khyber''. View of the entrance to the pass from Pakistan. View of the entrance to the pass from Pakistan.