I stayed here for 4 nights in October 2006 en route to Afghanistan via the Khyber Pass and on my way back from Kabul.

This is the best hotel in Peshawar. They have refurbished the guest rooms and they are very comfortable and clean with tile floors and comfy queen beds. There are high quality furnishings and TVs and the bathroom also has expensive fittings.

The staff are eager to please although the lady receptionist is somewhat clueless about making non smoking reservations (you can book these with her and she will be utterly amazed that there is such a thing a week later when you ask for your non-smoking room. Stand firm.

There is a Chinese, and two Indian restaurants (service good but food mediocre) and during Ramadan a nice fasting tent with a great buffet which both Muslims and non Muslims can enjoy during permitted meal times. Breakfast is included in the rates and prepare a good packed lunch if you are crossing the Khyber or doing some other sight seeing.

There are some high class shops selling quality antiques and carpets. The vendors are very reliable when it comes to shipping your purchases back to you.

There is a business center where you can access the Internet (a bit slow) for a nominal charge. There is an ATM in the lobby but, like other ATMs in Peshawar, it only takes MC and Visa (not bankcards like Cirrhus or Plus).

People are very friendly and welcoming to Westerners in Peshawar, which took me by surprise. I hope to come back here.