Historical Hostels of Islamia College Peshawar

Dated: 2025-08-05

Islamia College Peshawar, founded in 1913, is not only a prestigious educational institution but also home to iconic hostels that have accommodated students for over a century. Each hostel has a rich historical background and cultural significance.

Historical Hostels of Islamia College Peshawar (Boys)
1. Abdul Qayyum Manzil (A.Q. Manzil)

Named after Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum, the founder of Islamia College, this hostel pays tribute to his visionary leadership and commitment to education in the region.

2. Butler Hostel

Butler Hostel honors Sir Harcourt Butler, a key supporter in founding Islamia College. It is historically significant as one of the first residential hostels built on campus.

3. Chelmsford Hostel

This hostel commemorates Lord Chelmsford, another British Viceroy. It was designed to accommodate students from distant regions and provided modern amenities of its time.

4. Hardinge Hostel

Named after Lord Hardinge, the then Viceroy of India, this hostel was among the earliest built during the establishment of Islamia College. It has hosted many notable alumni and remains a landmark on campus.

5. Khushal Hostel

This hostel honors Khushal Khan Khattak, the legendary Pashto poet and freedom fighter. It reflects his ideals of wisdom, cultural pride, and bravery.

6. Oriental Hostel

Oriental Hostel was built to support students studying Arabic, Persian, and Theology, preserving the essence of oriental learning traditions.

7. R.S. Ward

R.S. Ward originally referred to the Regional Section Ward for students from specific regions, and it later became one of the main hostels on campus.

8. Tribal Hostel

Tribal Hostel was established to accommodate students from tribal areas (former FATA), symbolizing inclusivity and educational access for remote communities.

9. Turangzai Hostel

This hostel honors Haji Sahib of Turangzai, a freedom fighter and educationist, recognizing his contribution to educational reforms in the region.

10. Usmania Hostel

Usmania Hostel draws its name from the Ottoman (Usmani) Empire, symbolizing cultural pride and Islamic heritage at the time of the college's foundation.

Islamia College Girls’ Hostels

Islamia College Peshawar also provides secure and well-maintained residential facilities for female students, ensuring comfort, safety, and a conducive environment for academic excellence.

1. Arbab Behram Manzil (ABM)

ABM was a historic residential building integrated into the hostel system to provide extra accommodation, later modernized and reserved for female student use only.

2. Khushal Hostel

Khushal Hostel is designed to offer a safe and supportive residential environment for female students, equipped with modern facilities for a comfortable stay.