Band-e Amir National Park Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Band-e Amir National Park through our comprehensive guide, featuring top attractions, activities, itinerary, accommodations, and travel tips.


Introduction to Band-e Amir National Park

Located in East Afghanistan, Band-e Amir National Park is a breathtaking natural gem that attracts adventurous travelers from around the world. It is a series of six deep-blue lakes that are formed by natural dams made of travertine. The stunning turquoise waters of Band-e Amir are warm enough for swimming and are surrounded by soaring cliffs, creating a surreal and dreamlike landscape.

Beyond the scenic lake district, the national park also features impressive wildlife, such as ibex, urial sheep, wolves, foxes, and numerous bird species. Additionally, the region has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to pre-Islamic times.

List of Places to Visit in Band-e Amir National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Qal’a-i Bist or “Twenty Fortress”, a remarkable fortress that is at least 600 years old and is said to have been built by Alexander the Great
  • Buddhas of Bamyan, two giant Buddha statues that were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001 but are still worth visiting for their historical significance
  • Kabul Museum, a museum displaying stunning artifacts from Afghanistan’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage

Natural Attractions of Band-e Amir National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Band-e Haibat Lake, a peaceful and breathtaking lake with emerald green waters and picturesque surroundings
  • Tugak Valley, a remote and verdant valley that is accessible by trekking or horse riding and offers stunning views of the mountains
  • Dara-e Ajdahar, a promontory that towers over the valley and is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic views

Hiking/Biking Routes of Band-e Amir National Park

  • Shir-e Zagh, a two-day trek that leads to the highest peak of Band-e Amir and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes
  • Poya Khaf, a challenging four-day trek that crosses the mountains and traverses remote valleys, allowing hikers to experience the natural beauty of the area up close
  • Band-e Gholaman, a 20-km bike trail that follows the lakeshore and passes through scenic cliffs and meadows.

Best Things to Do in Band-e Amir National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Swimming in the turquoise waters of Band-e Amir
  • Horse riding through the stunning valleys and mountains
  • Camping under the stars in the beautiful natural surroundings
  • Participating in a cultural tour to learn more about the local traditions and customs
  • Taking a boat ride on the tranquil lakes of Band-e Amir

Week-Long Itinerary for Band-e Amir National Park

Day 1: Arrive in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan and transfer to Band-e Amir National Park

Day 2: Visit the Buddhas of Bamyan and explore the ancient fortress of Qal’a-i-bist

Day 3: Trek to Dara-e Ajdahar and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley

Day 4: Take a horse riding expedition to Tugak Valley

Day 5: Enjoy a relaxing day swimming and lounging on the shores of Band-e Amir Lake

Day 6: Take a cultural tour to learn more about the local traditions and customs

Day 7: Depart from Band-e Amir National Park and transfer back to Kabul

Food and Drink Scene of Band-e Amir National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Qabuli Palaw, a delicious Afghan dish made with rice, lamb, carrots, raisins, and almonds
  • Aush, a traditional Afghan soup made with noodles, herbs, and vegetables
  • Kabab-e-barg, grilled lamb marinated with spices and served with rice and raw vegetables

Local Beverages

  • Green tea, a staple of Afghan hospitality and often served with sugar and cardamom
  • Sherbet, a refreshing drink made with fruit syrups and served over ice

Where to Stay in Band-e Amir National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Band-e Amir Sunrise Guesthouse, a comfortable and affordable guesthouse that offers a stunning view of the lakes and mountains
  • Afghan Amenity Guesthouse, a recently renovated guesthouse with clean and modern rooms in the nearby town of Bamiyan
  • Aria Guesthouse, a cozy and authentic guesthouse in a traditional Afghan village

What to Buy in Band-e Amir National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade carpets, a traditional Afghan craft that is prized for its intricate designs and high quality
  • Jewelry, such as silver and turquoise pieces that reflect the region’s long history of craftsmanship
  • Dry fruits, a delicious and healthy snack that is abundant in the region and comes in many varieties

Local Culture and Customs of Band-e Amir National Park

Afghanistan has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, literature, and traditions. Respect for elders and hospitality towards guests are highly valued, and visitors are advised to dress modestly and show respect for local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Band-e Amir National Park

The best time to visit Band-e Amir National Park is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry. During the winter months, the area can be covered in snow and may be inaccessible due to road closures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Band-e Amir National Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Carry enough cash and small denominations

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission
  • Engage in public displays of affection
  • Give money or gifts to beggars
  • Buy souvenirs made from endangered plants or animals

Safety and Health

Safety in Band-e Amir National Park

Band-e Amir National Park is a relatively safe area, especially when compared to other parts of Afghanistan. However, travelers are advised to take normal precautions, such as not traveling alone at night, avoiding public demonstrations, and being aware of the local security situation.

Health in Band-e Amir National Park

Travelers to Afghanistan are advised to consult with their healthcare provider prior to departure to receive recommended vaccinations. Additionally, it is recommended to only drink bottled water, avoid raw fruits and vegetables, and ensure all meat is cooked thoroughly.

Getting to Band-e Amir National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Band-e Amir National Park

The nearest airport to Band-e Amir National Park is Bamiyan Airport, located around 45 kilometers away. However, flights to this airport are often limited and unreliable, and it may be more practical to fly to Kabul International Airport and then travel by road.

Bus Stations Near Band-e Amir National Park

There are regular bus services connecting Bamiyan to Kabul and other major cities in Afghanistan. However, travelers should be prepared for long travel times and challenging road conditions.

Other Options

Private taxis and minivans are also available for hire, but it is important to negotiate the fare in advance and ensure the vehicle is in good condition.

How to Get Around in Band-e Amir National Park

The best way to get around Band-e Amir National Park is by hiring a local guide, who can arrange transportation, provide insights into the local culture and customs, and show travelers the best places to visit.

Where to Go Next from Band-e Amir National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kabul, the bustling capital city of Afghanistan
  • Mazar-i-Sharif, a historic city known for its magnificent Blue Mosque
  • Herat, a cultural center with an impressive collection of Islamic architecture and art.

Conclusion

Band-e Amir National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re interested in hiking through remote valleys, swimming in turquoise lakes or exploring ancient fortresses, the park has something to offer for every traveler. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your visit to this stunning part of Afghanistan.

Band-e Amir National Park, known as Afghanistan's Grand Canyon Band-e Amir National Park, known as Afghanistan's Grand Canyon Boat rides Boat rides Early morning at one of the lakes Early morning at one of the lakes An overview of Band-e Haibat An overview of Band-e Haibat