Kandahar - Discovering Afghanistan

Travelling to Kandahar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kandahar, 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 Kandahar 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 Kandahar, 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 Kandahar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kandahar

Kandahar is a city located in southern Afghanistan, around 450 kilometers (280 miles) southwest of Kabul. It has a population of approximately 557,118 and is the second-largest city in the country. Kandahar is known for its rich history, as it has been an important center of Afghan culture, religion, and politics for centuries. However, the city has also been affected by war and conflict in recent years, and visitors are advised to exercise caution and seek updated travel advice before planning a trip there.

What to visit in Kandahar

As a travel website, it is not advisable to recommend tourist destinations in Kandahar for safety reasons. However, I can provide some general information about Kandahar.
Kandahar is the second-largest city in Afghanistan after Kabul and is located in the southern part of the country. Historically, it has been an important city because it sits on the crossroads of several civilizations and trading routes.
Some of the tourist attractions that can be found in Kandahar include: 1. The Kandahar Citadel: The Citadel is a fortified complex that was built in the 18th century by Ahmad Shah Durrani, the founder of the modern state of Afghanistan. It consists of a series of buildings, including a mosque, barracks, and a royal palace.
2. The Red Mosque: This mosque is also known as the Masjid-i Jami' or the Mosque of the Cloak. The mosque was originally built in the 12th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over its history.
3. The Shrine of Ahmad Shah Durrani: This is the tomb of Ahmad Shah Durrani, who was the founder of the modern state of Afghanistan. The tomb is an important pilgrimage site and is visited by many people every year.
4. The Kamal Khan Dam: This is a large dam that was built in the 1950s to provide irrigation for the surrounding farmland. The dam has also become a popular recreational site for locals and tourists alike.
5. The Arghandab Valley: This valley is located just outside of Kandahar and is known for its beautiful scenery and historical significance. The valley has been inhabited for thousands of years and has been the site of many important battles and events throughout history.
It is always recommended to research the current situation and consult with local authorities before planning a trip to such a country.

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

When to go on holiday to Kandahar

As Kandahar is located in a region that experiences extreme temperatures and is frequently affected by military conflict, I would advise against traveling to this area for recreational purposes. The safety of visitors cannot be guaranteed and there are ongoing travel warnings in place advising against non-essential travel to Afghanistan. It is best to consider other destinations that are deemed safer for tourism purposes.

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

How to get to Kandahar

The easiest way to get to Kandahar is to take a flight. There are a few airlines that operate flights to Kandahar International Airport, including Ariana Afghan Airlines, Kam Air, and Turkish Airlines. International travelers usually need to connect in Dubai, Istanbul, or Kabul to get to Kandahar.
It's important to note that Afghanistan has some security concerns, so it's essential to check the latest travel advice before planning a trip there. Additionally, it's recommended to hire a local guide or travel company to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kandahar, I recommend to check this link where you can find several offers for car rental.

Typical foods in Kandahar

Here are some typical foods of Kandahar, Afghanistan, with a brief description: 1. Qabuli Palaw - A popular dish made with rice, lamb, raisins, carrots, and nuts. It is typically served at special occasions or large gatherings and is considered a specialty of the region.
2. Mantu - Meat-filled dumplings that are steamed and served with a yogurt-based sauce. It's a popular snack and often consumed during festive times.
3. Shorba - A soup made with lamb or chicken, lentils, and vegetables. It's often served with naan bread or rice.
4. Kebab - Grilled pieces of meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) served with naan bread or rice. It's a staple food and a popular street food as well.
5. Bolani - A flatbread filled with mashed potatoes, onions, and sometimes a meat filling. It's served with a yogurt-based dip and is eaten as a snack or as a side dish.
6. Sheer chai - A traditional tea infused with milk and cardamom. It's a popular drink in Kandahar and is often served with sweets or snacks. 7. Kofta - A meatball made from ground meat mixed with spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder. It can be served with any kind of bread, popular street food. 8. Ashak – Similar to ravioli, a traditional Afghan dumpling filled with onion, herbs, and meat, topped with spiced tomato sauce and yoghurt. These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse foods that you can enjoy in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
You can find general info about typical foods in Afghanistan here.

Is Kandahar an expensive destination for tourists?

Kandahar, being a city with a strong military presence and a history of conflict, is not a common tourist destination. However, in general, Afghanistan is not considered a particularly expensive tourist destination. Accommodation and dining options may be limited compared to other destinations, and safety should always be a concern, but prices are generally reasonable. It's always a good idea to research safety protocols and potential risks before traveling to any destination, especially if it is not a typical tourist spot.

Where to find accomodation in Kandahar

Kandahar is a city located in the southern region of Afghanistan. The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Kandahar include: 1. The city center: This area is located near most of the popular tourist sites, including the Kandahar Bazaar and the Kandahar Citadel.
2. Arghandab: This is another popular area for tourists, especially those interested in the region's history and culture. The nearby Arghandab National Park is also a great place to explore.
3. Daman: This area is located on the outskirts of Kandahar and offers a more peaceful atmosphere. It is a good option for those who prefer to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Kandahar here:
Booking.com

Is Kandahar a safe destination for tourists?

Kandahar, Afghanistan is not considered a safe place for tourists. It has been known as one of the most dangerous cities in the country due to conflict and ongoing violence. The U.S. Department of State has issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory for the country due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. It is recommended to avoid all non-essential travel to Afghanistan, including Kandahar. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask.
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 Kandahar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kandahar the most?

Unfortunately, Kandahar is not a recommended travel destination due to the high levels of insecurity and ongoing conflict in the region. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory, urging citizens not to travel to Afghanistan.
Additionally, the city of Kandahar is considered a high-risk area due to ongoing insurgent activity and terrorist attacks.
Therefore, it is not advisable for any type of traveler to visit Kandahar at this time.

How to get around Kandahar

There are several modes of transportation available in Kandahar, Afghanistan, including: 1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Kandahar, and they are a convenient way to get around the city. Taxis are often shared by multiple passengers.
2. Buses: Buses are also available in Kandahar, but they are not as common as taxis. They operate on fixed routes, and passengers can board and alight at designated stops.
3. Car rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can opt to rent a car in Kandahar. However, this option is relatively expensive, and you will need an International Driving Permit to be allowed to drive.
4. Walking: Kandahar is a walkable city, and some areas of the city may not be accessible by car. Walking around the city can be a great way to explore the local culture and sights.

What to see around Kandahar

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Kandahar: 1. Spin Boldak border town: Located just 70 km from Kandahar, Spin Boldak is a bustling border town between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Here you can visit a traditional bazaar, see the Bahram Shah mausoleum, and enjoy the local hospitality.
2. Arghandab River Valley: A popular spot for picnics and swimming, the Arghandab River is located about 30 km north of Kandahar. It's a great place to relax in nature and enjoy some fresh air.
3. Shah-e-Kot Valley: This valley is located about 50 km from Kandahar and is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and greenery. It's a popular spot for hiking and trekking.
4. Takhta Bhai Buddhist complex: Located about 80 km from Kandahar, this ancient Buddhist complex dates back to the Gandhara period and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can explore the ancient remains of the complex and learn about the history of the area.
5. Ziarat-e-Sharif: This is a popular pilgrimage site located about 50 km from Kandahar. It's known for its beautiful mosque and shrine of the Sufi saint Hazrat Mian Sahib - a revered religious figure in the region.
6. Tarnak Farm: Located about 20 km east of Kandahar, Tarnak Farm is a former agricultural research station that now serves as a military base. However, visitors are allowed to tour the grounds and see the remains of the research facilities.
Remember to check safety advisories before heading out on any journey!
For every travel information about Afghanistan you can click here.

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