Things To Do
in Bagrāmī

Afghanistan’s national dish — long-grain rice cooked with carrots, raisins, and lamb or beef. Found in restaurants in Kabul and larger eateries serving celebratory meals.

Must-Try!

Skewered grilled meat (lamb, beef or chicken) served with naan and salad; widely available at local restaurants and roadside grills.

Steamed dumplings (mantu) and noodle soups (aush) topped with yogurt and a tomato-based sauce; common comfort foods in local homes and small eateries.

Pan-fried stuffed flatbread (potato, leek or pumpkin) sold at street stalls and markets — a great snack on the go.

Small village markets around Bagrāmī sell fresh bread, fruits, nuts and simple cooked dishes; try bolani, samosas and fresh naan with tea. Hygiene standards vary—opt for busy stalls and hot food.

If you travel into Kabul, larger bazaars and food markets offer dried fruits, nuts, pilaf stalls and cafés with more variety. These are better options for a wider selection and safer food handling.

Conservative dress is expected for both men and women: cover shoulders and knees at minimum; women should carry a scarf to cover their head when entering conservative settings.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women. Avoid photographing military or sensitive installations.

Use polite greetings (salaam) and accept tea if offered — hospitality is important. Use the right hand for giving and receiving items.

Be respectful of prayer times and religious customs. Avoid public displays of affection and public alcohol consumption, which can be offensive or illegal.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips (10% in restaurants when service is good; 20–50 AFN to drivers or guides for short services) are common. Offer tips discreetly and according to service quality.

Cash (Afghan afghani) is king in local markets and villages; carry small denominations. Major hotels in Kabul may accept cards or USD, but rural vendors will not. ATMs are mostly in Kabul; plan cash withdrawals in advance.

March–May brings mild temperatures and blooming orchards; roads can be dusty but scenery is green and pleasant, ideal for short hikes and photography.

June–August is hot and dry in the lowlands with temperatures often high during the day; mornings and evenings are best for outdoor activities. Heat and dust can make travel uncomfortable; carry sun protection and water.

September–November offers cooling temperatures, clearer skies and autumn colors in orchards — a comfortable time to visit with lower chance of extreme weather.

December–February can be cold with occasional snow in higher elevations; roads may be disrupted, and some rural routes can be difficult. Dress warmly and expect shorter daylight hours.

Short, local trails on low ridges suitable for morning or late-afternoon walks; good for landscape photography and observing rural life. Prefer going with a local guide.

Hills and paths around the reservoir offer easy hikes and picnic spots with water views; access depends on security and permissions.

A scenic valley north of Kabul with well-known mountain trails; typically requires travel to reach and is best done with experienced guides and secure transport.

Higher-elevation routes toward the Salang area offer alpine scenery; these are more challenging and may be affected by snow in winter—only attempt with proper planning and local support.

A major military airbase near Bagrāmī with a history of restricted access. Civilian use is limited and access is controlled; do not attempt to approach without authorization.

The primary commercial airport serving Kabul, located south of Bagrāmī. Flights and access are subject to government procedures and security screening; it is the main gateway for civilian travel to the Kabul region.