Mardan Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the North-West Frontier Province (N.W.F.P) region of Pakistan, Mardan is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Hospitality," Mardan welcomes visitors with open arms and offers a multitude of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

One of the main attractions in Mardan is the Takht-i-Bahi, a Buddhist monastery dating back to the 1st century AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perched on a hilltop, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the intricately carved stupas, prayer halls, and monastic cells that have stood the test of time. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere as you wander through the ancient ruins, and marvel at the historical significance of this site.

For nature enthusiasts, the Shahbaz Garhi Rock Edicts are a must-visit destination. These ancient rock inscriptions date back to the 3rd century BC and provide a glimpse into the region's rich history. As you hike through the scenic trails, you'll encounter majestic rock formations adorned with inscriptions that depict the life and times of Emperor Ashoka. Let the tranquility of nature wash over you as you admire the intricate carvings and immerse yourself in the stories they tell.

Mardan is also home to lush green parks and gardens, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Abdul Wali Khan University Garden is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely strolls. With its well-manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and serene ambiance, it's the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, don't miss the vibrant bazaars of Mardan. These bustling markets offer a sensory overload of colors, smells, and sounds. Explore the narrow lanes filled with shops selling traditional handicrafts, embroidered textiles, and aromatic spices. Engage in friendly banter with the local shopkeepers, and savor the flavors of the region by sampling the delectable street food.

Local name: مردان Population: 300.4 thous. (2019)Area: 244.02 mi²Elevation: 1017 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 34°11'47"N, 72°2'5"E

Location

N.W.F.P.Pakistan

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Mardan Top Attractions

Mardan Attractions - What to See and Explore

Mardan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kashmir Smast, Mardan Museum, Hoti, Government Post Graduate College Mardan. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Cave
Kashmir Smast
The Kashmir Smast caves, also called Kashmir Smats, are a series of natural limestone caves, artificially expanded from the Kushan to the Shahi periods, situated in the Babuzai Sakrah mountains in the Katlang Valley Mardan in Northern Pakistan.
History museum • Art museum • Museum
Mardan Museum
Mardan Museum is located in the Mardan District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The museum was first established in 1991 in a Town Hall with a single hall with 22 show cases displaying more than 90 Gandhara's sculptures by the supervision of Sahibzada Riaz Noor.
34°12'0"N • 72°4'0"E
Hoti
Hoti is a union council in the Mardan District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The town is located at 34°12'0N°, 72°4'0E at an altitude of 284 metres and lies just west of Peshawar, the capital of the province, and is inhabited by the Kamalzai Pashtuns, a sub-tribe of the Mandanr.

Day trips

Mardan – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Mardan, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Wah Gardens, Peshawar Museum (Peshawar), Peshawar Zoo (Peshawar).

47 milesSE
Park
Wah Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan, Wah Gardens is an emblem of the region's rich Mughal heritage, offering a serene and picturesque escape from the bustle of city life. This historical park, dating back to the 17th century, was originally established as a rest...
30 milesSW
Museum, History museum, Art museum
Peshawar Museum, Peshawar
Nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Peshawar, Pakistan, lies a treasure trove of history and culture: the Peshawar Museum. This prominent institution is a sanctuary for those eager to delve into the region's rich heritage, housing an extensive collection that...
34 milesW
Zoo
Peshawar Zoo, Peshawar
Nestled in the bustling city of Peshawar, Pakistan, the Peshawar Zoo is an oasis of biodiversity and a center of attraction for families and wildlife enthusiasts. This sprawling sanctuary for fauna is a relatively recent addition to the city's attractions, offering a...
29 milesSW
Archaeological site
Gorkhatri, Peshawar
Gorkhatri, situated in the heart of the historic city of Peshawar in Pakistan, is one of the country's more valuable archaeological treasures, with a history that spans centuries. This ancient complex, which now holds an important place in the urban fabric of Peshawar...
29 milesSW
Archaeological site
Bala Hisar Fort, Peshawar
Perched atop a hill in the ancient city of Peshawar, Pakistan, the historic Bala Hisar Fort stands as a testament to the region's storied past. This formidable archaeological site has been a sentinel overlooking the Khyber Pass and has played a pivotal role in the...