Kabul - Discovering Afghanistan

Travelling to Kabul

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kabul, a pretty good destination in Afghanistan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kabul and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kabul, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Afghanistan, here's everything to know about Kabul for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kabul

Kabul is the capital and largest city of Afghanistan located in the eastern part of the country. It is situated at an elevation of 1,800 meters (5,900 ft) above sea level in a narrow valley between the Hindu Kush mountains. Kabul has a population of approximately 4.5 million inhabitants and is the center of political, cultural and economic activities of Afghanistan. It has a fascinating history, including being a major center of trade and culture along the Silk Road, as well as being impacted by various conflicts and wars throughout the years. Despite the challenges, Kabul is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich cultural heritage, with many sites of interest for visitors to explore.

What to visit in Kabul

1. Babur Gardens: This is a beautiful garden that was built by the first Mughal Emperor, Babur. It is known for its lush greenery, fountains, and historic architecture. The garden is a popular site for picnics and outings.
2. Kabul Museum: The Kabul Museum is the oldest museum in Afghanistan, housing a wide range of artifacts and archaeological finds from the region. Exhibits range from the prehistoric to the Islamic period, with new discoveries being added regularly.
3. Pul-e-Khishti Mosque: This is an iconic mosque located in the heart of the old town, with a distinctive blue dome and intricate tilework. It was built in the 17th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Afghanistan.
4. Darul Aman Palace: This is a striking palace that was built in the early 20th century by King Amanullah. Although it was damaged during the civil war, it is still a popular tourist attraction, and restoration work is currently underway.
5. Chihilsitoon Garden: This is a beautiful park that is perfect for picnics and outings. It features a large lake, gardens, and historic buildings. It is an ideal location for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.
6. National Gallery of Afghanistan: The National Gallery of Afghanistan houses paintings and sculptures from Afghan artists from different eras, including contemporary works. It is situated close to Babur Gardens.
7. Salang Pass: This is a high mountain pass that connects Kabul to the northern provinces of Afghanistan. It is known for its scenic views of the Hindu Kush mountains and for being a challenging road to drive on, as it can be snowed in for much of the year. 8. Kabul Zoo: The zoo is located in Karte Seh, near Qargha. It is home to over 100 species, as well as a large collection of birds and reptiles. The zoo is popular with families and children.
9. Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque: Built in the 19th century, this mosque features a stunning white marble facade and intricate tilework. It is a peaceful and historic place to visit and is located in the heart of the city.
10. Paghman Gardens: Located approximately 20 km from Kabul, Paghman Gardens is a public park and recreation area, known for its beautiful floral displays, gardens, and picturesque views. It makes for an excellent weekend getaway from the city.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kabul.

When to go on holiday to Kabul

The best time to visit Kabul is during the late spring and early fall (April to June and September to November). During these months the weather is mild with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It is important to note, however, that Kabul can be dangerous due to political instability and security issues, so it is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions before planning a trip. It is recommended to consult with official travel advisories and consider the current situation before making any travel plans to Kabul.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kabul

If you are traveling from outside of Afghanistan, you can fly into Kabul International Airport (KBL) which is located about 5 miles (8 km) southeast of the city center. Many major airlines offer flights to Kabul from different parts of the world.
Alternatively, you can also choose to enter Afghanistan by land via neighboring countries, such as Pakistan, Tajikistan, or Iran. However, due to security concerns, it is recommended that you check the latest travel advice from your own government, and do careful research and planning before attempting overland travel into Afghanistan.
Once you have arrived in Kabul, you can take a taxi or public transportation to get around the city. It is important to note that travel in Afghanistan can be risky due to the security situation, so it is advisable to exercise caution and seek advice from local authorities and your embassy.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kabul, I recommend to check this link where you can find several offers for car rental.

Typical foods in Kabul

Sure, here are some typical foods of Kabul, Afghanistan: 1. Kabuli Pulao: One of Afghanistan's most famous dishes, Kabuli Pulao is a delicious combination of long-grain rice with tender chunks of meat, raisins, carrots, and nuts.
2. Mantu: Considered the national dish of Afghanistan, Mantu is made of small steamed dumplings filled with seasoned ground beef or lamb, topped with tomato and yogurt sauce.
3. Ashak: A vegetarian dumpling dish stuffed with scallions, cilantro, and spinach, then topped with tomato and yogurt sauce.
4. Shorwa: A hearty soup made with meat, beans, and a variety of vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, and onions.
5. Bolani: A thin, savory pastry stuffed with a mixture of spiced potatoes or leeks, served with a tomato chutney.
6. Kebab: Grilled meats, including lamb, beef, and chicken, are commonly eaten as kebabs served with rice, bread, and vegetables.
7. Qorma: A thick stew made of meat, beans, onions, potatoes, and various other vegetables with a blend of spices.
8. Sheer Yakh: A frozen, creamy dessert similar to ice cream, typically made with milk, sugar, and rosewater.
I hope you find this helpful in planning your trip to Kabul, Afghanistan!
You can find general info about typical foods in Afghanistan here.

Is Kabul an expensive destination for tourists?

Kabul, like many other capital cities, can be relatively expensive for tourists. However, costs may vary depending on a variety of factors such as accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Accommodation costs in Kabul may range from budget hotels or guesthouses to high-end hotels, and prices will depend on the facilities offered by the property. Local transportation options such as taxis, buses or shared cabs can be affordable, but private taxis could be pricier.
Additionally, food costs in Kabul will also vary depending on your tastes and preferences. The city offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Afghan cuisine to international food, and prices will vary accordingly. Overall, your budget for traveling to Kabul will depend on how you would like to experience the city and the kind of traveler you are. It is recommended to do some research in advance to understand the price range of various services and plan accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Kabul

Since travel to Kabul, Afghanistan is not advised due to safety concerns, I cannot recommend any particular areas for accommodation. It is important to consult and follow travel advisories and guidelines from your country's government before planning any trip to Afghanistan.
You can check hotel prices at Kabul here:
Booking.com

Is Kabul a safe destination for tourists?

As a travel website, I cannot provide real-time and comprehensive information on the current situation in Kabul, Afghanistan. However, according to the travel advisory issued by many countries, including the United States Department of State, it is not recommended for tourists to travel to Afghanistan due to security concerns. The security situation in Kabul and other parts of the country remains unpredictable and can change rapidly, with a high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and criminal activity. It is essential to consult with credible sources and seek expert advice before planning a trip to Kabul or any other place in Afghanistan.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Afghanistan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kabul.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kabul the most?

Kabul, Afghanistan is generally not considered a tourist destination due to safety concerns and ongoing conflict. The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Afghanistan and has a "Do Not Travel" warning in place due to terrorism, crime, and civil unrest.
Therefore, as a travel website, I cannot recommend Kabul as a safe place for any type of traveler at this time. It's important to check with travel advisories and consult with security professionals if you have any plans to visit high-risk destinations.

How to get around Kabul

In Kabul, you can use various types of transportation to move around the city. The most common ones are taxis, buses, and private cars. However, it is recommended to use registered taxis as they are safer and provide more reliable services. Also, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are available in the city. It is important to note that the roads in Kabul can be congested and chaotic, so it is advised to plan your travel accordingly and be cautious while traveling.

What to see around Kabul

Certainly! Here are some nice places to consider for a day trip from Kabul: 1. Paghman Gardens: Located just 25 kilometers west of Kabul, Paghman Gardens is a beautifully landscaped park with stunning views, fountains, and lush gardens.
2. Dar ul Aman Palace: This palace, located in the western part of Kabul, was built in the early 1920s and is a great example of traditional Afghan architecture.
3. Bamiyan Buddhas: If you're up for a longer day trip, consider visiting the Bamiyan Buddhas, which are located around 240 kilometers from Kabul. The two giant statues were carved into the cliff face in the 6th century and are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
4. Salang Tunnel: The Salang Tunnel is a 2.7-kilometer-long tunnel that runs through the Hindu Kush mountains and connects Kabul to northern Afghanistan. It's a marvel of engineering and offers stunning views.
5. Lake Qargha: This natural lake is located just 9 kilometers from Kabul and is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and boating. It's surrounded by green hills and makes for a lovely day trip destination.
For every travel information about Afghanistan you can click here.

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