Exploring Afghanistan's Historic Cities And Natural Wonders

Afghanistan is a country steeped in history and culture, with plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From resilient cities to breathtaking natural landscapes, here are some highlights of what to do in Afghanistan:

Admire the resilient capital, Kabul, with its beautiful parks, ancient citadel walls, and newly restored museums. Explore the Kabul Museum, which still boasts a good number of artefacts, including Greco-Bactrian Buddha statues.

Take in the Red City of Shahr-i-Zahak, about 11 miles from Bamiyan, where you'll find ancient mud-brick towers perched atop a cliff, overlooking the intersection of the Bamiyan and Kalu rivers.

Hike through the rugged Valley of Paghman, a spectacular landscape that was once home to many of Kabul's wealthiest residents.

Explore the wild and remote Hindu Kush region, consisting of two massive mountain ranges, stunning valleys, and lakes.

Visit the Blue Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif, known for its cobalt blue domes and white-hot minarets, as well as its significance in Muslim history.

Discover the ancient city of Balkh, dubbed The Mother of Cities by the Arabs, which has been destroyed multiple times by conquerors and was once a part of the famous Silk Road.

Experience the cultural and historical richness of Herat, the third-largest city in Afghanistan, known for its Persian influence, the elegant Friday Mosque, the Herat Citadel, and the tombs of revered Sufi poets.

These are just a few of the many fascinating places and experiences that Afghanistan has to offer beyond the headlines of conflict and turmoil.

Explore the Kabul Museum

The National Museum of Afghanistan, also known as the Kabul Museum, is a two-story building located on Darulaman Road, opposite the Darul Aman Palace in Kabul. It was once considered one of the greatest museums in the world, with a collection of over 100,000 items, including Neanderthal remains, Buddhist stucco sculptures, and ancient Hindu marble statuary.

The museum was established in 1919 at the Bagh-i-Bala palace and was originally stocked with manuscripts, miniatures, weapons, and art objects belonging to former royal families. In 1931, it moved to its current location, where it continued to expand its collection of archaeological and artistic items.

However, the Kabul Museum has had a tumultuous history, with many of its treasures stolen or destroyed during the civil war in the 1990s. It suffered a devastating rocket attack in 1993 and was used as a base by the mujaheddin, who carefully selected and looted the most valuable pieces, including the Bagram Ivories and the Kunduz Hoard of Graeco-Bactrian coins. The museum was also targeted by the Taliban, who destroyed pre-Islamic statues and images, including the famed Buddha statues at Bamiyan.

Despite these challenges, the Kabul Museum has persevered and slowly rebuilt its collection. With the help of the international community and the dedication of its staff, the museum reopened in 2004 and continues to display a surprising amount of artefacts.

The Entrance Hall

As you enter the museum, you will find a 15th-century black marble basin from Kandahar, known as the "Buddha's Begging Bowl" due to the carved lotus at its base.

Greek and Bactrian Exhibits

To the left of the entrance hall is a large Greek inscription from Ai Khanoum, and to the right is the Rabatak Tablet, covered in Bactrian script yet to be deciphered. These exhibits showcase the museum's collection of Greek and Roman coins, dating from the 8th century B.C. to the late 19th century.

Graeco-Bactrian Buddha Statues

A pair of glass cases display rare Graeco-Bactrian Buddha statues from the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, made of limestone and schist. These are some of the few that escaped destruction by the Taliban.

The Nuristani Gallery

The highlight of the museum, the Nuristani Gallery, is filled with huge wooden deities and ancestor figures of the Nuristani ethnic group, carved before the 1890s when the region was still pagan. The statues, featuring goddesses riding mountain goats and loving couples carved on marital bedposts, differ radically from other Afghan art. They were chopped up by the Taliban but have been expertly restored.

Other Treasures

Downstairs, you can explore additional treasures, including a beautifully carved marble door from Kabul and a reconstructed stucco section of a 12th-century mosque from Lashkar Gah.

The Kabul Museum provides a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich history and cultural heritage. Security is tight, and visitors are reminded of the importance of preserving culture with a plaque outside the front door that reads, "A nation stays alive when its culture stays alive."

Visit the Blue Mosque

Afghanistan's Blue Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, is a must-see destination when visiting the country. Located in Mazar-i-Sharif, the mosque is an architectural masterpiece and a sacred site for Muslims. Here are some reasons why you should visit the Blue Mosque:

A Peaceful Oasis

The Blue Mosque stands as an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the bustling city of Mazar-i-Sharif. Surrounded by the noise of modern life, with busy streets, shops, and bazaars, the mosque offers a quiet escape. The mosque is known for its serene atmosphere, with the laughter of children and the gentle cooing of doves filling the air.

A Magnificent Structure

The Blue Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Its cobalt blue domes and gold-accented minarets shine under the bright sun. The exterior is adorned with thousands of colourful and intricately patterned tiles that create a shimmering, otherworldly effect in the sunlight. The tiles, crafted by local artisans, are a testament to the beauty of Islamic design.

A Sacred Site

The Blue Mosque is considered a sacred site by Muslims, especially Sufi Sunnis and Shi'ites. It is believed to be the burial site of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. Legend has it that a mullah dreamt of Ali revealing that his remains were secretly buried near the ancient city of Balkh. The mosque was originally built in the 12th century by Sultan Ahmad Sanjar of the Seljuk Empire but was destroyed by Genghis Khan in the 13th century. It was later rebuilt in the 15th century by Sultan Husayn Bayqara, who constructed the giant blue mosque that stands today.

A Place of Pilgrimage

The Blue Mosque is a significant place of pilgrimage for Muslims, attracting pilgrims from across Afghanistan and beyond. The shrine of Hazrat Ali, which forms the largest wing of the complex, can only be entered by the faithful. The faithful believe that Ali's body was moved to Afghanistan from its original burial place in Al-Najaf, Iraq, early in the history of Islam. The mosque is also known for its white doves, which are considered sacred. Legend has it that any dove with a speck of colour on its feathers will turn pure white after entering the mosque's vicinity.

A Cultural Experience

A visit to the Blue Mosque offers a glimpse into Afghan culture and traditions. The mosque is surrounded by a block-sized park filled with flowers and rose-lined paths. Families stroll through the mosque's flagstone court, and children play and feed the doves. The mosque's small museum provides visitors with insight into the history and significance of the site. Additionally, visitors can meet the muezzin, who calls the faithful to prayer from one of the four corner minarets.

When visiting Afghanistan, the Blue Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif is a must-see destination. Its architectural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and cultural significance make it a memorable and enriching experience for visitors from around the world.

Take a trip to Jalalabad

Jalalabad, the capital of the Nangarhar Province, is a city in eastern Afghanistan with a population of nearly 900,000 people. It is located next to the Kabul and Kunar rivers and is known for its orange and palm trees. If you plan to take a trip to Jalalabad, here are some things to keep in mind and places to visit:

Security and Travel:

Jalalabad is approximately 90 miles (140 km) from Kabul to the west and a similar distance from Peshawar, Pakistan, to the east. It is accessible by road and air, with Jalalabad Airport offering domestic flights. However, it is important to note that travel to Afghanistan is generally not recommended due to security concerns, and the road between Jalalabad and Kabul is considered one of the most dangerous in the world due to a high number of traffic accidents. Always check official travel advice before planning your trip.

Places to Visit:

• Mausoleum of King Amanullah Khan: This mausoleum is dedicated to King Amanullah Khan, the sovereign ruler of Afghanistan in the early 20th century.
• Hada Museum: Located south of Jalalabad, this museum features exhibits related to the pre-Islamic period of Afghanistan's history.
• Sherzai Cricket Stadium: A cricket stadium is currently under construction in Jalalabad, which is considered the capital of Afghan cricket.
• Darwanta Dam: A famous spot for its fresh fish, green environment, and park with restaurants and hotels.
• Amir Shaheed Garden: One of the recommended attractions in Jalalabad.
• Ghazi Amanullah Khan City: A new city under development approximately 15 km from Jalalabad, named after King Amanullah Khan.

Admire the Babur Gardens

The Babur Gardens, also known as the Gardens of Babur, are a must-see when in Afghanistan. Located in the Sher Darwaza hillside of District 5, southwest of Shahr-e Naw, the historic site is a short distance south of Kabul Zoo and north of Chihil Sutun. The gardens are the final resting place of the first Mughal Emperor Babur, and it was he who ordered the construction of the gardens in the 1500s.

The gardens are laid out in the classical charbagh (four garden) pattern, with a series of quartered rising terraces split by a central watercourse. The site has 11-15 hectares of greenery, flora, walking space, and assorted buildings, including Babur's tomb, a mosque, and a pavilion. The tomb is located on the fourteenth terrace, and the grave is surrounded by a white marble screen. Babur wished to be buried under the open sky, so his grave is uncovered. The headstone reads, "If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this!".

Over the years, the gardens have been modified and, during the civil war, suffered damage and neglect. However, they have been restored to their original form, with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) playing a significant role in this process. The perimeter walls, which enclose the orchards, were rebuilt by the local community. The garden is a popular destination for locals and foreign tourists alike, with up to one million visitors annually.

The Babur Gardens offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of Kabul. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature, admire the historical architecture, and learn about the rich history of the site. The gardens provide a tranquil space to relax, hang out with friends or family, and experience peace of mind.

Hike through the Valley of Paghman

The Valley of Paghman is a rugged valley located about 90 minutes by road from the capital city of Kabul. The landscape is spectacular, and the area is known for its greenery and fruit trees. It is walled on three sides by the highest mountains in the region and is a source of water for the city of Kabul. The valley is home to the Paghman Palace, the Paghman Hill Castle, and the Taq-e Zafar, a monumental gate similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The valley also boasts the highest green mountains, woods with old trees, and waterfalls.

If you decide to hike through the Valley of Paghman, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, check the security situation and whether it is safe to travel to the valley. Secondly, since the valley is known for its cool climate, make sure to pack accordingly, especially if you plan to hike during the winter months. The valley receives snowfall, so be prepared for snowy trails and cold weather.

The valley has a rich history, having once served as a holiday retreat for the wealthy and aristocrats. It was also the location of the president's house and the presidential palace. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination for locals and international visitors alike.

When hiking through the valley, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Hindu Kush mountain range. You will also come across villages such as Khaldari, Bektoot, and Adam Khel Kala, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle of the local communities. Their main sources of income include agriculture, animal husbandry, and employment in the nearby city of Kabul.

The Paghman Valley is known for its organic food and fruits, with public gardens where you can rent a hut for the day and enjoy fresh produce brought to you by farmers. You will also find restaurants serving fresh and organic food, including traditional Afghan dishes such as Kabab, Afghan Naan, and Afghan Chutney.

In addition to the natural beauty and cultural experiences, the valley has a strategic location and a significant historical context. It was the birthplace of King Amanullah Shah, who announced Afghanistan's independence from Great Britain in 1919.

Overall, hiking through the Valley of Paghman offers a unique opportunity to explore Afghanistan's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. It is a place where you can connect with nature, learn about the local communities, and discover the country's resilient spirit in the face of past conflicts.

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