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Peshawar Travel Checklist

Peshawar Travel Checklist

Peshawar Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your pre-trip activities helps ensure nothing is overlooked.

Your Journey to Peshawar

Break down your preparations into manageable timeframes for clarity and comfort.

3M

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check for VALID for at least six months; renew if needed.

Visa Application

Research and apply for your e-Visa (NADRA).

Health Consultation

Consult doctor for vaccinations and health advice.

1M

Month Before

Flights & Lodging

Book international/domestic flights and main accommodations.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive coverage. (World Nomads)

Bank Notification

Inform bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks.

1W

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, hotels, and tour bookings.

Pack Clothing

Pack climate and culturally appropriate attire. (Eagle Creek)

Digital Prep

Download offline maps, translation, and ride-sharing apps.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these elements ahead of time to ensure availability and peace of mind.

Essential Reservations

  • Flights: International and domestic to Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW).
  • Accommodations: Hotels, guesthouses, or any other lodging for your stay.
  • Intercity Transport: If traveling by bus or train to/from other cities.
  • Guided Tours: Any specific guided tours or private car hires you plan to use.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

A study of your destination enriches your travel experience.

Informed Travel

  • History & Culture: Read up on Pakistani history, Gandhara civilization, Pashtun culture.
  • Current Events: Understand the security situation from reputable international news sources.
  • Local Etiquette: Grasp local dress codes and social norms for respectful interactions.
  • Special Permits: If visiting areas with restricted access (e.g., Khyber Pass), arrange permits well in advance.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is secured and affairs are in order before you embark on your journey.

Inform Contacts

  • Inform trusted family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Provide them with emergency contact information.
  • Share your flight details and lodging addresses.
  • Outline your expected return date.

Home Security

  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care if you have pets.
  • Secure your home (lock doors/windows, notify neighbors).
  • Set timers for lights to create an occupied appearance.

Financial Matters

  • Pay any pending bills in advance.
  • Ensure automatic payments are set for recurring expenses.
  • Keep enough funds in your accounts for any charges during your absence.
  • Budget for any travel-related expenses upon return.

Organized Documents

Create a physical and digital folder for all your booking confirmations, passport copies, visa, and insurance details. This ensures everything organized and accessible in an emergency.

Arrival Checklist

These are your initial steps upon landing in Peshawar for a smooth transition.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear procedures at Bacha Khan International Airport. Have passport and visa ready.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect your luggage from the luggage carousel.

  • 3
    Local Currency

    Obtain PKR from an ATM or currency exchange counter at the airport.

Initial Purchases & Orientation

  • Local SIM Card

    Purchase from a provider kiosk (Jazz, Zong) at the airport.

  • Check-in & Neighborhood Walk

    Settle in, then walk around to find ATMs, pharmacies, and stores.

  • Itinerary Review

    Review your first itinerary, adjusting based on arrival time and energy.

Currency and Transport

Currency Exchange

Exchange enough currency for immediate needs: airport transfer, first meal, water, and local transit.

Purchase bottled water and any required snacks upon arrival.

Airport to Accommodation

Utilize your pre-booked hotel transfer, ride-sharing apps (Careem), or official airport taxis.

Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey to avoid any surprises.

Initial Orientation

After settling in, take a brief walk around your immediate neighborhood to become acquainted with the surroundings.

Identify locations like grocery stores, pharmacies, and reliable eateries.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from Peshawar.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
  • Allow ample time for packing and any special arrangements.
  • If you have larger items, arrange shipping with a reliable courier service.
  • Ensure all customs documentation is correctly filled out.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Pakistan does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists.
  • This procedure is not applicable for your departure.
  • You do not need to seek out tax refund counters at the airport.
  • Keep receipts for personal records, but no tax recovery is expected.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allocate ample time for your journey to the airport or station.

Airport Arrival

  • International Flights:Arrive at least 3 hours before.
  • Domestic Flights:Arrive at least 2 hours prior.
  • Traffic Considerations:Account for potential congestion in Peshawar.
  • Reason:Allow for check-in, immigration, and security screening.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your return flight details with your airline.
  • Pack your luggage according to airline weight and size limits.
  • Ensure all necessary documents for departure (passport, boarding pass) are accessible.
  • Perform a final check of your accommodation for forgotten items.

Final Document Check

Before leaving your accommodation for the airport, double-check that you possess all your essential documents (passport, wallet, phone, tickets).

A swift final check helps prevent last-minute panic and ensures a smooth departure.