East Afghanistan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and things to do in East Afghanistan. Read our comprehensive guide packed with helpful tips and advice.


Introduction to East Afghanistan

Located in Central Asia, East Afghanistan is a mesmerizing travel destination with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It’s a place where you can explore ancient cities, hike through the rugged mountains, and interact with warm and friendly locals.

In this comprehensive travel guide to East Afghanistan, we will take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and things to do in this fascinating region.

List of Places to Visit in East Afghanistan

East Afghanistan is brimming with culturally important attractions and natural wonders that will excite and inspire you. Below are some of the must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kabul Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and relics from Afghanistan’s rich history, including pre-Islamic antiquities, ancient Islamic manuscripts, and Gandharan art.

  • Bagram Airfield: The site of an ancient city and military base, Bagram Airfield has been the center of military and political power for centuries.

  • Babur’s Gardens: These stunning gardens were built by the Mughal emperor Babur in the early 16th century, and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Herat Citadel: Located in Herat city, this imposing fortress dates back to the 5th century and is a testament to Afghanistan’s turbulent history.

Natural Attractions of East Afghanistan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Band-e-Amir National Park: Located in the Bamyan Province, this national park is home to six stunning lakes that are known for their strikingly blue waters.

  • Wakhan Corridor: This narrow strip of land is nestled between the Pamir Mountains and Afghanistan’s border with Pakistan, and offers some of the most picturesque views in the country.

  • Nuristan Province: This province is home to the stunning Hindu Kush mountain range, which offers countless opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Afghanistan

East Afghanistan is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Below are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

  • The Salang Pass: This high mountain pass connects northern and southern Afghanistan and offers breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush mountains.

  • The Wakhan Valley: This remote valley offers stunning views of the Pamirs and the Hindu Kush mountains, and is home to several small isolated villages.

  • The Panjshir Valley: This valley is known for its rugged beauty and is a popular destination for hikers and bikers looking for a challenging adventure.

Best Things to Do in East Afghanistan: Activities and Tours

From exploring ancient historical sites to trekking through the mountains, East Afghanistan offers a wide range of exciting activities and tours. Below are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Explore the ancient cities of Kabul and Herat.

  • Hike the Salang Pass and the Wakhan Valley.

  • Visit the stunning lakes of Band-e-Amir National Park.

  • Take a biking tour of the Panjshir Valley.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Afghanistan

Below is a sample week-long itinerary for exploring East Afghanistan:

Day Activity
1 Explore Kabul City
2 Visit the Kabul Museum
3 Hike the Salang Pass and drive to Bagram Airfield
4 Explore Herat City and the Herat Citadel
5 Visit Babur’s Gardens and drive to Band-e-Amir National Park
6 Trek through Band-e-Amir National Park
7 Return to Kabul City and depart for home

Food and Drink Scene of East Afghanistan

East Afghanistan’s food and drink scene is as diverse as its cultural and natural heritage. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kabuli Pulao: A savory dish made with rice, lamb, raisins, and carrots.

  • Mantu: Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and served with yogurt sauce.

  • Ashak: Stuffed pasta shells filled with leeks, onions, and herbs, and served with tomato sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Doogh: A refreshing yogurt-based drink that is flavored with dried mint and salt.

  • Sherbet: A sweet and tangy fruit-based drink that is perfect for hot summer days.

Where to Stay in East Afghanistan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Afghanistan offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Below are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the region:

  • Serena Hotel Kabul: One of the most luxurious hotels in Afghanistan, this hotel offers a range of amenities and services.

  • Zarnegar Park Hotel: A budget-friendly option in Kabul that offers clean rooms and basic amenities.

  • Local Guesthouses: There are many local guesthouses in the region that offer a more authentic experience of Afghan hospitality.

What to Buy in East Afghanistan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, East Afghanistan has plenty of options. Some of the best things to buy include:

  • Carpets and rugs: Afghanistan is known for its fine-quality carpets and rugs.

  • Jewelry and other handicrafts: Artisans in the region produce a wide range of handicrafts, including jewelry, pottery, and embroidery.

Local Culture and Customs of East Afghanistan

Afghanistan has a rich and diverse culture that is steeped in tradition and history. Below are some important customs and practices that you should be aware of:

  • Dress modestly and ensure that your clothing covers your shoulders and knees.

  • Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or a private home.

  • Use your right hand for eating, as the left hand is considered unclean.

Best Time to Visit East Afghanistan

The best time to visit East Afghanistan is between April and October, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and outdoor activities are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Afghanistan

When traveling in East Afghanistan, it’s important to be aware of the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially women.

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Dari or Pashto, the local Afghan languages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t display public affection, as it is considered inappropriate in Afghan culture.

  • Don’t criticize local customs or traditions, even if you don’t agree with them.

  • Don’t take photographs of government buildings or military installations.

Safety and Health

East Afghanistan is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to take basic precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in East Afghanistan

  • Avoid traveling at night, especially in remote areas.

  • Always carry a copy of your passport and visa with you.

Health in East Afghanistan

  • Make sure you are up-to-date with your routine vaccinations.

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid street food.

Getting to East Afghanistan: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Afghanistan is easily accessible by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near East Afghanistan

  • Hamid Karzai International Airport

  • Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport

Bus Stations Near East Afghanistan

  • Kabul Bus Station

  • Herat Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private transportation: Taxis and private cars are available for hire in most cities in East Afghanistan.

How to Get Around in East Afghanistan

Getting around in East Afghanistan is easy and convenient, with a variety of transportation options available, including:

  • Taxis

  • Buses

  • Private cars and drivers

Where to Go Next from East Afghanistan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Afghanistan is surrounded by several other countries that offer exciting destinations and excursions:

  • Uzbekistan: This Central Asian country is home to stunning cities and ancient historical sites.

  • Pakistan: Pakistan offers stunning mountain views, vibrant cities, and cultural attractions.

  • Iran: With its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Iran is a must-visit destination.

Conclusion

East Afghanistan is a fascinating travel destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient sites, hiking through the mountains, or experiencing Afghan hospitality, East Afghanistan has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide as your roadmap to discover all that this amazing region has to offer.

Korengal Valley in Kunar Province, Afghanistan Korengal Valley in Kunar Province, Afghanistan Khogyani district in Nangarhar Province Khogyani district in Nangarhar Province Ghazni residents walk past newly constructed gates and monuments in Ghazni province. Ghazni residents walk past newly constructed gates and monuments in Ghazni province.


    Band-e Amir National Park
    Ghazni
    Istalif
    Jalalabad