Mardan City Guide

Local food focuses on dishes like Chapli Kebab and Lamb Karahi. International choices are limited, with some fast-food chains present. Vegetarian options exist but vegan choices are rare. Some eateries stay open late.

Mardan is conservative with almost no formal nightlife like bars or clubs. Social life happens mostly at home or family restaurants.

Tea dominates local culture. Coffee shops and specialty places are rare and limited.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Small tips are common in nicer restaurants and rounding fares in taxis is usual.

SIMs are sold at authorized shops. Jazz and Zong offer better coverage. Foreigners must register with passport and biometric verification. eSIMs are not common.

Street cleanliness varies and can be an issue in some areas. Waste management is basic.

Some pharmacies and small stores stay open late. Night clinics are limited. Late food options exist but are few.

Groceries mainly come from local bazaars and small stores. Imported products are limited but available in bigger supermarkets. Shops open roughly 9-10 AM to 9-10 PM. Bargaining is common in markets.

Cash is widely preferred here. Card payments work only in bigger stores, hotels, and some restaurants in the city center.

ATMs from major banks like HBL, MCB, Allied Bank, and National Bank are easy to find. International fees may apply depending on your home bank.

Local schools follow Pakistani curriculum in Urdu and English. International schools are mostly in bigger cities nearby. Contact schools directly for admission details.

No active digital nomad community or meetups. Remote work options and co-living spaces are not developed.

Some parks and riverside areas offer shaded walking and green space access. Suitable for running and relaxation.

Running is possible in parks and quieter roads. Daytime safety is good but watch traffic and air quality.

Basic gyms are available but not many details are known about specific facilities.

Some private or school tennis courts may exist but are limited.

Padel courts are not available.

Yoga studios and wellness centers are scarce or absent.

Some local clubs teach Karate and Taekwondo. Drop-in and English instructions are unlikely.

No ski resorts nearby; skiing possible several hours away in northern Pakistan.

Limited water sports; none organized or widely available.

No surfing available; Mardan is far from the coast.

No diving opportunities in or near Mardan.

Private hospitals offer better care and sometimes English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and stay open late. Emergency number is 1122. Healthcare quality scores average.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water.

Family facilities include basic playgrounds in public parks and kid-friendly local eateries. Marghuzar Zoo is a popular spot for families.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is very low with significant social and legal challenges. No safe public spaces or events.

General public spaces and accommodations are not pet friendly. Basic veterinary services exist.