Overview
Peshawar, one of South Asia's oldest living cities, is the historic capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and a gateway to Pakistan's rugged north-west. Rich in Pashtun culture, ancient bazaars and legendary hospitality, it is a much-loved route home for the UK's Pakistani and Pathan community — perfect for visiting family and attending weddings. Flights arrive at Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW). Whether you are reuniting with loved ones or discovering the city's deep history, comparing fares in one place makes booking your flight to Peshawar quick and simple.
Best time to fly to Peshawar
Peshawar has hot summers and mild winters. The most comfortable months run from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and family visits. Summer (May to July) can be very hot, often above 40°C, so many travellers prefer the cooler season. Fares typically climb during the summer school holidays, Eid periods and the December peak, so travelling either side of these busy windows usually stretches your budget further — check the on-page charts for the cheapest dates.
Airlines and routes
Peshawar is well connected to the UK, largely through Gulf and regional hubs. Popular one-stop options include Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Etihad Airways (via Abu Dhabi) and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), often via Islamabad. Typical journey time from London is around 11–15 hours depending on the connection, with similar one-stop routings available from Manchester and Birmingham. Comparing carriers for your exact dates is the surest way to secure the lowest fare.
Things to do in Peshawar
Peshawar offers a wealth of history, culture and colour:
- Qissa Khwani Bazaar: the famous ‘Storytellers' Market', a historic hub of tea houses and trade.
- Bala Hisar Fort: an imposing fortress with commanding views over the old city.
- Peshawar Museum: home to one of the world's finest collections of Gandhara Buddhist art.
- Mahabat Khan Mosque: a beautiful 17th-century Mughal mosque in the heart of the bazaars.
- Sethi House: an ornate heritage mansion showcasing traditional craftsmanship.
At Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW)
Bacha Khan International Airport lies close to the city centre, roughly 5 km out, and offers currency exchange, ATMs, prayer facilities and food outlets. Metered taxis, pre-booked cars and ride-hailing apps such as Careem are the easiest ways into the city, and many families arrange to be collected on arrival. Hotels are available a short drive from the terminal.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Peshawar
- Book roughly 6–12 weeks ahead — popular VFR routes to Peshawar fill quickly, especially around Eid and summer.
- Avoid the summer holidays and December peak where possible; the shoulder months bring noticeably lower prices.
- Be flexible with your dates — midweek departures are often cheaper than weekends.
- Compare one-stop carriers — connecting through a Gulf hub or Islamabad can open up better value.
Travel essentials
- UK travellers need a visa or a Pakistan Origin Card (POC) to enter Pakistan — many apply through the convenient online e-visa system before flying.
- Those of Pakistani heritage may be eligible for a NICOP or POC, which can simplify entry — check current requirements before you travel.
- The local currency is the Pakistani rupee (PKR).
