Perched on what was once the highest point in Peshawar's old city, the Mohabbat Khan Mosque is a striking 17th-century Mughal-era masterpiece. Built between 1660 and 1670 and named after Mughal governor Mahabat Khan, this historic landmark is renowned for its iconic white marble façade. As you approach, you will see a grand west-side prayer hall flanked by two tall, three-sectioned minarets and topped with three fluted domes, merlons, and concave moulding.
Entrance into the main hall is gained through five arched portals—including a soaring central cusped Mughal arch flanked by Persian and Central Asian-style arches—adorned with multi-coloured vegetal motifs, muqarnas, and stucco ghalib kari ribbing. The mosque's history is deeply woven into the region: its minarets were tragically used for public hangings during the Sikh era, and tribal elders later gathered here to unite against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Inside the 30,155-square-foot complex, you will find a spacious open courtyard featuring a central ablution pool and exterior rooms.
Stepping into the prayer hall reveals walls decorated with intricate floral patterns, geometric designs, and Quranic calligraphy, offering an enriching look at historic artistic traditions.
What to see at Mohabbat Khan Mosque
- Striking white marble façade featuring a rising roofline with merlons and concave moulding
- West-side prayer hall topped by three fluted domes and five detailed arched entry portals
- Two tall, three-sectioned minarets alongside smaller decorative minarets
- Intricate interior floral motifs, geometric paintings, and Quranic calligraphy
- Open courtyard featuring a centrally located ablution pool
Visiting tips
Take time to observe the unique architectural details on the main portals, including the multi-coloured vegetal motifs and intricate plaster ghalib kari ribbing.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Mohabbat Khan Mosque is easy to reach on Peshawar’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Peshawar travel guide.
See the full Peshawar travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.