Best 30 Places to Visit in Mardan

Venturing into the heart of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, you’ll find the charming city of Mardan, a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. In this guide, we will journey through the ‘best 30 places to visit in Mardan’, a city that thrills at every turn.

Introduction

Mardan, the second-largest city in the province, is a bustling hub with diverse attractions, from historical sites to vibrant local markets and picturesque landscapes. This article will unveil the captivating facets of Mardan.

History

A historical nexus, Mardan was once part of the ancient Gandhara civilization, a fact reflected in its multitude of archaeological sites.

Best 30 Places to Visit in Mardan

1. Takht-i-Bahi: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

2. Guido National Park: Explore the rich flora and fauna of this local treasure.

3. Bacha Khan Monument: A tribute to the freedom fighter and proponent of non-violence, Abdul Ghaffar Khan.

4. Qasim Ali Khan Mosque: A beautiful representation of Islamic architecture.

5. Mardan Museum: Discover the history of Gandhara civilization and more at this museum.

6. Jamal Ghari: Visit this ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 1st century AD.

7. Jehanzeb College: Experience the colonial architecture of this educational institution.

8. Hund Park: Unwind and rejuvenate at this beautiful recreational spot.

9. Shahdara Lake: Visit this picturesque artificial lake, great for picnics and boating.

10. Mardan Sports Complex: A modern facility for sports enthusiasts.

11. Irrigation Rest House: Take a leisurely stroll around this historical building.

12. Reshun Hydro Power Plant: A unique experience for those interested in hydroelectric power generation.

13. Sugar Mills: Learn about the local industry at these operational mills.

14. Sheikh Maltoon Town: Walk through this well-planned residential area.

15. Women University Mardan: Explore this higher education institute.

**16. Toru: A historical town worth visiting for its rich history and local bazaars.

**17. Rashakai: A modern industrial estate near Mardan.

18. Katlang: Experience the local culture and traditional hospitality of this small town.

19. Mardan Bazaar: Shop for local handicrafts and traditional goods at this bustling market.

20. Sawaldher: This town is home to several archaeological sites.

21. Bazira: Visit the ruins of this ancient city, also known as Bazar Valley.

22. Ambela Pass: Trek through this historical mountain pass.

23. Rustam Bazaar: Another local market for an authentic shopping experience.

24. Shergarh Fort: Explore the historical fort, a reminder of Mardan’s strategic past.

25. Zoor Bandai: A scenic town with lush greenery and a cool, pleasant climate.

26. Daman-e-Koh: A viewing point on Margalla Hills with panoramic views of Mardan.

27. Shaheen Market: A modern shopping center with a variety of shops.

28. Ghani Derai: An ancient Buddhist stupa dating back to the 2nd century BC.

29. Risalpur Railway Station: Take a ride from this historic railway station.

30. Swat River: Enjoy the serene beauty of this majestic river flowing through Mardan.

How to Get Around

Navigating Mardan is straightforward with a variety of options, from auto-rickshaws and taxis to ride-sharing services available.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mardan is during the cooler months from October to March, which is ideal for sightseeing.

Top 5 Local Cuisines to Try

1. Chapli Kebab: A traditional Pashtun-style kebab.
2. Kabuli Pulao: A fragrant rice dish with meat.
3. Rosh: A slow-cooked meat dish.
4. Peshawari Naan: A local bread, usually served with meat.
5. Sheer Khurma: A traditional sweet dish made with vermicelli, milk, and dates.

Language People Speak There

The primary language spoken in Mardan is Pashto, though Urdu and English are also widely understood.

Weather in Mardan

Mardan experiences a hot, semi-arid climate with significant temperature variations between summer and winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Mardan famous for?
  • Mardan is famous for its historical sites, particularly Takht-i-Bahi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its connection to the ancient Gandhara civilization.
• What is the best time to visit Mardan?
  • The best time to visit Mardan is from October to March when the weather is relatively cooler.
• What are the top local cuisines to try in Mardan?
  • Chapli Kebab, Kabuli Pulao, Rosh, Peshawari Naan, and Sheer Khurma are some of the top local cuisines to try in Mardan.

Based on my ‘experience’, the enchanting city of Mardan, steeped in history and teeming with natural beauty, promises an unforgettable journey. So why wait? Embark on a fascinating trip to Mardan!