Khyber Agency
Nestled in the heart of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khyber Agency beckons with tales etched in stone and whispered through the winds. Covering 2576 square kilometers, this district is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, where Pashto voices resonate.
Four Tehsils, One Tale
Khyber Agency reveals its secrets through four Tehsils:
- Bara Tehsil, where the echoes of time mingle with the rugged terrain.
- Jamrud Tehsil, where history stands tall in the form of the iconic Jamrud Fort.
- Landi Kotal Tehsil, where the highest point of the Khyber Pass meets adventure.
- Mula Gori Tehsil, a quiet haven with stories waiting to be uncovered.
Detaille Info about Khyber Agency – KPK
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | North-western region of Pakistan, bordering Afghanistan. |
| Capital | Peshawar (administratively; no specific capital within Khyber Agency). |
| Area | Approximately 2,576 square kilometers. |
| Population | Around 617,361 people (as of the 2017 census). |
| Language | Pashto is the most widely spoken language. |
| Main Tribes | Afridi, Shinwari, Mullagori, and others. |
| Geography | Rugged, mountainous terrain with the Khyber Pass as a significant feature. |
| Administrative Status | Historically, Khyber Agency was one of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It has now been merged into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a result of the 25th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan in 2018. |
| Economy | Primarily agrarian, with subsistence farming and trade through the Khyber Pass playing a key role in the local economy. |
| Notable Places | – Khyber Pass, an ancient trade route and important historical landmark. |
| – Landi Kotal, a major town in the area. | |
| – Bara, Tirah Valley, and Jamrud are other important regions. | |
| Culture and Traditions | Rich Pashtun cultural heritage, with traditions like Jirgas (tribal councils) being significant in resolving disputes. |
| Historical Significance | Khyber Pass has been a historic trade route and a strategic military location for centuries. It has seen numerous invasions and migrations throughout history. |
| Security Situation | The region has had a history of militancy and conflict due to its proximity to the Afghanistan border, but efforts have been made to improve security. |
| Education | Limited educational infrastructure, but efforts have been made to increase access to education in recent years. |
| Healthcare | Limited healthcare facilities, with the need for improved healthcare services. |
Historical Spots in Khyber Agency
Bab-e-Khyber
Khyber Agency border starts after crossing Karkhano market on the Torkham road in Peshawar city. Try to visit this area with a local person. A little further on is the Khyber Gate, constructed in 1964 with carved stones.
The history of the Khyber pass is engraved near Bab-e-Kyber in both English and Urdu languages. Apart from the invading emperors in different periods, a brief history of the nations that passed through here and a sketch of historical battles are also given.
Its picture is printed on the ten-rupee note. The area of Kyber Pass is in Koh Suleman.
Jamrud Fort
Khyber Pass starts from the Jamrud area 6 km forward to Bab-e-Khyber. Jamrud fort was reconstructed by army commander in chief Hari Singh Nalwa of King Ranjeet Singh in 1823 on the traces of an old fort. The fort is built with rough stones and mud. Ameer Singh Nalwa was killed in the war of Ameer Kabul and was buried in this fort.
Regimental monument
The Khyber Pass has monuments of the British officers killed in World War II (1878-79). The medals of regimental forces that were appointed on the Khyber Pass for safety are also engraved on the big stones.
Ali Mosque
King Babur stayed in this mosque and fixed camps here when he was coming to Peshawar from Kabul. It is the narrowest area of Khyber Pass. There is a rare valuable stone.
It is narrated that it was thrown on Hazrat Ali (R.A) by a woman while he was offering prayer. It is 75 % out of the mountain and 25% inside it. Ali fort is at the top of the Ali mosque. (It is only a narration but historically it is not proven).
It is in the northwest of Shagai fort. Shagai fort is at an altitude of 2300 feet from sea level and was constructed in 1920 by the British regime. F.C are appointed there.
Sphola Stupa
Tucked away amidst the rugged terrain of the Khyber Agency in Pakistan, the Sphola Stupa stands as a serene sentinel of a bygone era, echoing the deep spiritual roots of Buddhism in this historically significant region. With a history that dates back to ancient times, this stupa is a testament to the enduring legacy of Buddhism in the South Asian subcontinent.
Sphola Stupa, often referred to as the “Sphola Mound,” is located approximately 10 kilometers from Zirai Village in the Khyber Agency. This modest yet evocative structure is a sacred relic for both local and visiting pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
Landi Kotal
Landi Kotal is 47km from Peshawar and is located at an elevation of 1072 meters from sea level. Landi Kotal is the highest point of Khyber Pass.
This Frontal railway station has brief history written near the ticket house. Khyber rifles’ garrison is located in this large shopping center. Delicious Karhai Ghost ( a local dish made with meat) of Landi Kotal Bazaar is famous. You can relish tortillas and Karhai with Qahwa.
Khyber Rifles Officer Mess
This headquarters of the pickets of Khyber Pass in Landi Kotal holds significant importance. In 1980, a British military officer came to the lawn drunk and found a tree running away. He ordered to tie the tree with chains. His order was fulfilled. That tree is still tied in the chains.
Quid-e-Azam and other high-ranked officers visited this place too. Their pictures are hung in the mess hall of officers. There are a few sundials in the world that move with the sunlight. One of them is fixed here. It still tells the correct time.
Machini Check
It is the last point on the Pak Afghan border. A map on the ground gives information about Pakistan and Afghanistan check posts. Gallows are there which were constructed by king Taymor Ling.
Torkham
Torkham is located on the Durand line between Pakistan and India about 57 km from Peshawar. Afghanistan border starts from Torkham. Quid-e-Azam visited this site in 1947 and gave a clue of Pak-Afghan friendship by shaking hands with the soldier across the closed border gate.
It is better to visit this place with a local person from the Khyber Agency. And give the details of your friends to fort Bala Hissar 10 days before the visit. They will inform you on the day to visit. In this way, you will be a guest of the Khyber Agency. They will brief you about the Khyber Agency fort, details of important sites, Khyber officer’s rifles mess, Khattak dance, and Machini Check post. You will have to pay charges for it.
Schools in Khyber Agency
- Government High School, Landi Kotal
- Government Girls High School, Landi Kotal
- Government Boys High School, Jamrud
- Government Girls High School, Bara
- Government Middle School, Landi Kotal
- Government High School, Tirah
- Government High School, Bara
Colleges in Khyber Agency
- Government Degree College, Landi Kotal
- Government Degree College, Jamrud
- Government Degree College, Bara
- Government Girls Degree College, Landi Kotal
- Government Commerce College, Jamrud
- Government Commerce College, Landi Kotal
Hospitals in Khyber Agency
- Landi Kotal Hospital
- Jamrud Hospital
- Bara Hospital
- Landi Kotal Civil Hospital
- Jamrud Civil Hospital
Restaurants in Khyber Agency
- Shinwari Restaurant, Landi Kotal
- Afridi Restaurant, Jamrud
- Khyber Food Point, Bara
- Rahat Bakers and Fast Food, Landi Kotal
- Tariq Shinwari Restaurant, Jamrud
FAQs:
What is Khyber Agency, and where is it located in KPK?
Khyber Agency, formerly one of the administrative agencies in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan, is situated in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province. It borders Afghanistan and is known for its rich history.
What are the famous historical sites in Khyber Agency?
Khyber Agency boasts several historical sites, including Jamrud Fort, Ali Masjid, and the legendary Khyber Pass, which have significant historical and cultural importance.
Can you tell me more about Jamrud Fort?
Jamrud Fort, located in Khyber Agency, is a historic fort built during the British colonial era. It played a crucial role in the region’s history and is a popular tourist attraction today.
What is the significance of Ali Masjid in Khyber Agency?
Ali Masjid is a historic mosque and fortress in the Khyber Agency region. It has historical and religious importance, as it is associated with various events, including the British-Afghan wars.
Tell me about the Khyber Pass and its historical relevance.
The Khyber Pass is a mountain pass that connects Pakistan and Afghanistan. It has been an ancient trade and invasion route, serving as a significant historical link between South Asia and Central Asia.
Are there any museums or visitor centers in Khyber Agency to learn more about its history?
Yes, there are museums and visitor centers in the Khyber Agency that showcase artifacts, exhibits, and information related to its history and culture.
Is it safe to visit these historical sites in Khyber Agency?
Safety conditions in the region can vary, so it’s essential to check the latest travel advisories and local conditions before planning a visit. It’s advisable to hire a local guide or tour operator who is familiar with the area.
Wind Up Lines
Khyber Agency is a testament to history’s endurance, where the past beckons in every stone, fort, and market. Explore this land of echoes and whispers, where the rhythms of the pass guide your journey into the heart of Pakistan’s rich heritage.
