Sultan Eshkashim Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Northeast Afghanistan with our comprehensive guide to Sultan Eshkashim – from natural attractions and hiking routes to local culture and customs.


Introduction to Sultan Eshkashim

Located in Northeast Afghanistan, Sultan Eshkashim boasts of unique natural and cultural attractions that travelers can explore. The rugged mountain ranges, pristine rivers, and towering peaks offer a perfect backdrop for hiking and outdoor adventures. Meanwhile, the quaint villages, museums, and historical buildings reveal the rich cultural heritage of the town.

In this travel guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Sultan Eshkashim – from the best places to visit to where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Sultan Eshkashim

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Yamchun Fort: This 12th-century fortress is perched on top of a hill and offers breathtaking views of the Wakhan Valley. The fort is a testament to the rich history of Sultan Eshkashim and its importance as a strategic outpost along the Silk Road.
  • Zorkul Nature Reserve: Zorkul is a glacial lake on the border of Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The reserve is a protected area and home to several species of rare birds, including the bar-headed goose and the Brahmin duck. The idyllic landscape is perfect for picnics and bird watching.
  • Bibi Fatima Hot Springs: Also known as the “Saint Mary Hot Springs,” these natural hot springs are said to have healing properties. According to legend, Bibi Fatima, who was the daughter of Prophet Mohammed, took a bath in these springs.
  • Abreshim Qala: This ancient site is believed to be a Buddhist monastery that dates back to the 4th century. The ruins include a temple, a stupa, and several sculptures of Buddha.

Natural Attractions of Sultan Eshkashim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wakhan Corridor: The Wakhan Corridor is a narrow strip of land that connects Afghanistan to China. The corridor offers breathtaking views of the Pamir mountain range and is a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
  • Little Pamir: The Little Pamir is a vast plateau that lies at an altitude of over 4,000 meters. The plateau is home to several nomadic communities who graze their livestock in the area. Travelers can explore the plateau on horseback or on foot and experience the unique nomadic way of life.
  • Afghan Pamir: The Afghan Pamir is a range of high peaks that includes the highest mountain in Afghanistan, Noshaq (7,492 meters). The range is a popular destination for mountaineers and experienced hikers.
  • Band-e-Amir National Park: This stunning national park is home to six interconnected lakes that are a brilliant shade of turquoise blue. The lakes are formed by natural dams and offer a picturesque landscape for hiking, picnicking, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sultan Eshkashim

Wakhan Valley Trek

The Wakhan Valley Trek is a popular hiking route that takes travelers through picturesque villages and stunning mountain ranges. The trek can take up to eight days and covers a distance of approximately 70 kilometers. The highest point on the trek is the 4,800-meter Khargush Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the Little Pamir plateau.

Highway 301 Bike Ride

Highway 301 is a scenic bike route that starts in Ishkashim and runs along the Pamir River. The route offers stunning views of the Pamir mountain range and takes cyclists past several historic sites, including the Yamchun Fort and the Bibi Fatima Hot Springs.

Best Things to Do in Sultan Eshkashim: Activities and Tours

Afghan Nomad Experience

The Afghan Nomad Experience is a unique tour that takes travelers on a journey through the Wakhan Corridor. The tour includes visits to several nomadic communities, where travelers can see firsthand how the nomads live and work. The tour also includes opportunities for horseback riding and hiking.

Walking Tour of Sultan Eshkashim

The walking tour of Sultan Eshkashim takes travelers through the town’s historic sites, including the Abreshim Qala ruins and the Yamchun Fort. The tour also includes visits to local markets and opportunities to sample traditional Afghan cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sultan Eshkashim

Day 1-2: Ishkashim

Explore the town of Ishkashim and visit the Ishkashim Bazaar.

Day 3-4: Wakhan Valley Trek

Embark on a two-day trek through the Wakhan Valley.

Day 5-6: Band-e-Amir National Park

Visit the stunning Band-e-Amir National Park and explore the interconnected lakes.

Day 7-8: Afghan Nomad Experience

Experience the unique way of life of Afghan nomads on a two-day tour through the Wakhan Corridor.

Food and Drink Scene of Sultan Eshkashim

Must-Try Dishes

  • Qabuli Palau: This traditional Afghan dish is made with lamb, onions, carrots, and raisins. The meat and vegetables are served on top of a bed of long-grain rice.
  • Mantu: Mantu is a type of dumpling that is typically filled with minced beef or lamb and served with a tomato-based sauce.
  • Kofta: Kofta is a type of meatball that is commonly made with ground beef or lamb and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Green Tea: Green tea is a staple drink in Afghanistan and is typically flavored with cardamom and served with sugar.
  • Dugh: Dugh is a refreshing drink made from yogurt, water, and salt.
  • Doogh: Doogh is a similar drink to dugh but is typically carbonated and flavored with mint and other herbs.

Where to Stay in Sultan Eshkashim: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pamir Lodge

The Pamir Lodge is a guest house located in Ishkashim. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and access to guided tours and hikes in the area.

Guesthouse Panorama

The Guesthouse Panorama is a guest house located in the heart of Sultan Eshkashim. The guest house offers basic rooms and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Sultan Eshkashim: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Afghan Carpets

Afghan carpets are world-famous for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. Sultan Eshkashim is known for producing some of the finest carpets in Afghanistan.

Handmade Jewelry

Handmade jewelry is a popular souvenir to bring home from Sultan Eshkashim. The jewelry is typically made from silver or gold and is adorned with semi-precious stones like lapis lazuli and turquoise.

Local Culture and Customs of Sultan Eshkashim

Travelers to Sultan Eshkashim should be aware of local customs and traditions. Women are expected to dress modestly, and men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. Alcohol is forbidden in the region, and travelers should respect local religious practices.

Best Time to Visit Sultan Eshkashim

The best time to visit Sultan Eshkashim is from May to October when the weather is warm and dry. The winter months can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and extreme cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sultan Eshkashim

Do:

  • Dress modestly
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Sample traditional Afghan cuisine

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol
  • Take pictures of locals without their permission
  • Touch or disturb ancient ruins

Safety and Health

Safety in Sultan Eshkashim

Travelers to Sultan Eshkashim should exercise caution and be aware of the risk of terrorism and kidnapping. It is recommended that travelers avoid traveling alone and stay in groups.

Health in Sultan Eshkashim

Travelers to Sultan Eshkashim should ensure that they are up-to-date on all vaccinations, including Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, and Polio. It is also recommended that travelers bring a basic first aid kit, including any prescription medication they require.

Getting to Sultan Eshkashim: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sultan Eshkashim

The nearest airport to Sultan Eshkashim is in Kabul, approximately 700 kilometers away. From Kabul, travelers can take a taxi or a bus to Sultan Eshkashim.

Bus Stations Near Sultan Eshkashim

There are several bus stations in Kabul that offer services to Sultan Eshkashim. The bus journey takes approximately 24 hours.

Other Options

Travelers can also hire a private taxi from Kabul, although this can be expensive. It is recommended that travelers arrange transportation through a reputable travel agency.

How to Get Around in Sultan Eshkashim

The best way to get around Sultan Eshkashim is by hiring a local guide or driver. Travelers can also use public transportation, but this is not recommended for those who are unfamiliar with the area.

Where to Go Next from Sultan Eshkashim: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mazar-i-Sharif

Mazar-i-Sharif is an ancient city located in northern Afghanistan. The city is home to several historic sites, including the Shrine of Hazrat Ali and the Blue Mosque.

Kabul

Kabul is the capital of Afghanistan and offers travelers the opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, including several museums and historic sites.

Conclusion

Sultan Eshkashim is a hidden gem in Northeast Afghanistan that offers travelers the opportunity to explore breathtaking natural landscapes and to experience the unique culture of the region. From hiking and trekking to sampling traditional cuisine and shopping for local souvenirs, Sultan Eshkashim has something for every traveler. As always, travelers should exercise caution and be aware of local customs and traditions when traveling in the area.