population: 0.93 million

extension: 1,632 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Mardan and interested in visiting museums, you can visit the Gandhara Art Museum located in Peshawar. This museum exhibits ancient Buddhist artifacts from the nearby region of Gandhara. Additionally, the Peshawar Museum and Charsadda Archaeological Museum are also great options that showcase a collection of ancient artifacts found in the area.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes in Mardan and the surrounding Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan include:

1. Chapli Kabab - a spicy minced meat patty usually made from beef or mutton with a unique blend of spices.

2. Karahi - a savory dish typically made with chicken or mutton, cooked in a tomato-based curry with spices.

3. Tikkas - grilled pieces of marinated meat, usually chicken or beef, served with chutney and naan bread.

4. Haleem - a slow-cooked stew made with a combination of lentils and meat, usually beef or mutton.

5. Kadhi - a yogurt-based curry made with gram flour fritters (pakoras) and seasoned with various spices.

6. Peshawari Charsi Tikka - Similar to regular tikkas but they are known for being extra spicy and are served with naan bread.

7. Kabuli Pulao - a rice dish made with tender lamb pieces, raisins, carrots, and other spices.

8. Namkeen Mandi - A famous dish that consists of an entire goat or lamb roasted and served with rice and salad.

These dishes are beloved by locals and visitors alike and are definitely worth trying if you get the chance to visit Mardan or the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan.

Activities

Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Mardan, Pakistan are:

1. Visiting Takht-i-Bahi: It is a famous Buddhist monastery and UNESCO World Heritage site located 16 km from Mardan. People love to visit this ancient site for its historical and religious significance, as well as the scenic views it offers.

2. Exploring Khwaja Ghulam Fareed Park: It is a popular park with greenery, pathways, and children's play areas. Many locals come here for a picnic, jog, or just to relax in the fresh air.

3. Attending Jashn-e-Sarkar: It is an annual festival held in Mardan to celebrate the life of the Sufi saint Pir Baba. The festival features music, dance, and food stalls, and draws large crowds from all over the region.

4. Shopping at Qissa Khwani Bazaar: It is a bustling bazaar in Peshawar, about an hour away from Mardan, that is known for its traditional handicrafts, jewelry, spices, and clothes. Many people from Mardan go to Peshawar for shopping and sightseeing.