Discover Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, a province rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Learn about KPK’s geography, population, cities, and capital city.
KPK or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is previously known as North-West Frontier Province. KPK is in the northwestern part of the country and shares borders with Afghanistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Punjab, and Balochistan. It is a hub of ancient civilizations with a rich cultural heritage.
The landscape of this province varies from the snowy mountains to the vast fertile valleys and plateaus. This province includes three great mountain ranges: the Hindu Kush, the Karakoram, and the Himalayas. The area is subject to different climatic conditions, as in winter it gets extremely cold and in summer it remains quite hot. It is a land of great contrasts, which makes KPK a paradise for tourists who have a lot to explore in terms of treks and hikes.
As per the 2023 census, the total population of KPK is around 40 million, making it Pakistan’s third most populous province. The capital of KPK is Peshawar. Other major cities in the province include Abbottabad, Swat, Mardan, Bannu, and Kohat.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by ancient civilizations like Gandhara, Greek and Buddhist influences, and Islamic culture. Home to the Pashtuns, known for their hospitality and valor, the province has been a historic crossroads along the Silk Road. Its history spans from the Indus Valley Civilization and Persian-inspired Achaemenid Empire to Alexander the Great’s conquest. Formerly part of British India’s North-West Frontier Province, KPK played a key role in Pakistan’s independence and remains a vibrant center of Pashtun culture and identity today.
The KPK has a rich cultural heritage, dating back to the ancient Gandhara civilization. The province has had an influx of culture by Greeks, Buddhists, and later, Islamic culture during their rule in the region. Major ethnic components from this province are the Pashtuns, traditionally renowned for their hospitality and valor. So, to miss out on the old city of Peshawar—a city full of history and cultural landmarks—is something that could not be afforded upon an excursion to KPK.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been a historical crossroads for centuries, due to its strategic location along the Silk Road. It has witnessed the rise and fall of many great civilizations. Early settlement in the province starts from the Indus Valley Civilization and Achaemenid Empire inspired from the Persian influence. Alexander the Great conquested KPK in 327 BCE and established Greek influence. KPK was part of British India’s North-West Frontier Province during British rule in the Subcontinent. KPK played an important role in Pakistan’s independence movement, and today, it is a center for Pashtun culture and identity.
Scenic landscapes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, with majestic mountains, lush valleys, rivers, and breathtaking natural beauty. Snow-covered peaks, serene lakes, and vibrant meadows offer year-round charm. A paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers
Takht Bhai Buddhist Monastery in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1st century, known for its ancient monastic ruins, intricate architecture, and significance in Gandhara Civilization
Historic landmarks of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, featuring ancient forts, Buddhist monasteries, Mughal-era architecture, and cultural heritage sites reflecting the region’s rich history.
Agriculture drives the province's economy, with major crops including wheat, maize, and tobacco. In addition, it is rich in natural resources such as oil, gas, and minerals. Tourism also plays an important role, based on the aesthetic value of the land and cultural heritage. The government has in fact introduced schemes for the promotion of economic development by spending on infrastructure and getting investment in key sectors.
KPK is home to a variety of tourist attractions, such as the ancient city of Peshawar, the Khyber Pass, the Swat Valley, Lake Saif ul Malook, and the remains of ancient Buddhists at Takht-i-Bahi and Dharmarajika. Swat Valley, also called the "Switzerland of Asia," is an awe-inspiring destination having awesome beauty with immense trekking and hiking opportunities.
KPK is a heaven for adventure tourists, providing opportunities for trekking, hiking, and exploration. This province provides a number of trekking routes, some very famous, such as the trek to K2 and the trek to Nanga Parbat. There are a lot of lakes in the province, such as Lake Saif ul Malook and Lake Mahodand, providing great activities for boating and fishing.
The province is rich in natural resources, particularly marble and gemstones, with large reserves of white marble, granite, and emeralds found in various regions. Hydroelectric power is another major sector, with Tarbela and Warsak dams supplying electricity to the national grid. KPK is famous for its Peshawari chappals, handwoven carpets, and intricate wooden crafts.
The province has made significant progress in education. It has an exponentially growing network of schools, colleges, and universities. The province has eminent institutions like the University of Peshawar and the Khyber Medical University. The government has undertaken a number of programs aimed at betterment and upliftment of education through access to education and increasing the quality of teachers.
KPK is divided into 7 divisions, which are further subdivided into 38 districts, ensuring an organized governance system that facilitates development and administrative efficiency. The province’s rich natural resources, energy sector, and tourism industry make it an essential part of Pakistan’s overall economic growth.
KPK is a treasure of ancient history, hundreds of year-old cultures, and stunningly beautiful landscapes. The province inhabits the core of many ancient civilizations. Since the 6th century BC, the Gandhara civilization has been flourishing here, and this region has seen the influences of the Greek, Buddhist, and Islamic cultures.
This province is home to types of its flora and fauna, covering many endangered species. National parks with their wildlife exist in the lands of the Deosai National Park and the Saif ul Malook Lake. The parks and sanctuaries provide a relatively safe habitat for endangering species, such as the Brown Bear, Snow Leopard, and Markhor.
Pashto is the dominant language, with other languages like Hindko, Chitrali, and Kohistani spoken in different regions. The Kalash Valley tribes celebrate unique festivals such as Chilam Joshi, Uchal, and Choimus, which showcase their colorful attire and rituals. Music and dance hold a special place in KPK’s culture, with the Attan Dance being a high-energy traditional Pashtun group dance, often performed at weddings. Rababi and Tappay, two popular folk music styles, reflect the deep poetic and musical heritage of the region.
KPK’s cuisine is equally vibrant, featuring rich and aromatic flavors. Kabuli Pulao, a rice dish cooked with lamb, raisins, and spices, is a staple in Pashtun households. Chapli Kebab is a famous specialty from Peshawar which consists of spiced minced meat patties. Dum Pukht, a slow-cooked lamb dish, is prepared by sealing the pot to enhance the flavors. Another signature dish, Peshawari Karahi, is a rich and flavorful meat curry, made with tomatoes, green chilies, and aromatic spices.
This region is also haunted by several problems, of which the most important are security concerns, infrastructure development, and economic growth. Though the province is determined to fight back with all its vigor and satiety, there are a host of challenges that lay in its bid. In the state of KPK, various steps were taken by the government for improving security, developing infrastructure, and undertaking economic progress.
Karachi
Clifton, Saddar
Lahore
Gulberg, Model Town
Islamabad
F-7, Blue Area
Trekking
Fairy Meadows, Margalla
Boating
Khanpur, Attabad
Mountaineering
Rakaposhi, Hunza Valley
Biryani
Sindhi, Lahore
Chapli Kebab
Peshawar, Tarru Jabba
Dry Fruit
Gilgit, Skardu, Quetta
Gilgit Baltistan
Polo Festival, Takhum Rezi
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Chilam Joshi, Buzkashi
Sindh
Camel Dance, Sindhi Day
Fabrics & Clothing
Ajrak, Balochi Tanka
Artisan Picks
Khussa, Jhumka
Collectables
Blue Pottery, Woven Baskets
Herbs & Spices
Thyme, Milk Thistle
Clothing & Textiles
Kashmiri Shawls, Cotton
Minerals
Gypsum, Aquamarine
