Kandahār
,Kandahar is a historic city in southern Afghanistan with a rich cultural heritage. It has been an important center of trade and politics for centuries, dating back to ancient times. The city is known for its famous Kandahar Airport and is often considered a strategic hub in the region.
Kandahar faces security challenges due to its history of conflict, but it remains an important economic and cultural center in Afghanistan.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Tashakur" - Thank you
- "Bakhshid" - Excuse me
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
- "Chi khabar?" - What's up?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Kandahr's Historic Sites
morning
:Start your day by visiting the impressive Shrine of Baba Wali, a spiritual and historical landmark of the region. After exploring the shrine, stroll through the surrounding gardens to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
afternoon
:In the afternoon, head to the ruins of the ancient city of Zaranj, which offers a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich history. Spend some time at the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
evening
:As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Afghan cuisine. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps catch some traditional music performances.
Nature Adventures in Kandahr
morning
:Begin your adventure with a hike in the nearby Spin Boldak area, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy amidst the serene landscapes.
afternoon
:After your hike, visit the Kakar Valley for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature. Take in the beauty of the valley and explore the local flora and fauna.
evening
:Return to Kandahār and unwind at your hotel. Spend the evening reflecting on your day's adventures and enjoying some local chai.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and history, being an important city along the ancient Silk Road.
- Strategic geographic location, serving as a trade hub between regions in Afghanistan and neighboring countries.
- Avenue for agriculture and natural resources, with fertile land for various crops.
Bad
- Ongoing security challenges and conflict, leading to instability and risks for residents and visitors.
- Infrastructure limitations, including access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
- Economic issues, including high unemployment rates and lack of development opportunities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Spin Ghar mountains
Enjoy beautiful views and challenging trails in the Spin Ghar mountains, located near Kandahar.
Picnicking in Arghandab River Valley
Relax and enjoy a picnic by the picturesque Arghandab River, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Exploring Kandahar Old City
Visit historical landmarks, bazaars, and traditional architecture in the ancient city of Kandahar.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Kandahār with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Kandahar Citadel
The ancient citadel in Kandahar offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Arghandab River
The serene banks of the Arghandab River provide picturesque settings for capturing the natural beauty of Kandahar with its lush greenery and flowing waters.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kabuli Pulao
A fragrant rice dish with tender lamb, carrots, and raisins, infused with aromatic spices. Must-try at Kandahar Haji Hayat.
Must-Try!
Mantu
Delicate steamed dumplings filled with seasoned ground beef or lamb, topped with a zesty tomato-based sauce and yogurt. Recommend trying at Mumtaz Mantu House.
Kabab
Juicy and tender skewered meat, often lamb or chicken, grilled to perfection. Noteworthy options available at Zia Shishlik House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kandahār better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Sarai Market
An authentic market offering an abundance of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Best known for its street food vendors serving up chapli kababs, kebabs, and samosas.
Chicken Street
A bustling thoroughfare famed for its diverse street food scene, featuring sizzling kebabs, traditional flatbreads, and flavorsome rice dishes.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting
In Kandahār, Afghanistan, it is important to greet people with respect. Men typically shake hands, while women may nod and smile as a form of greeting.
Respecting elders
Respect for elders is a key cultural norm. It is important to address older individuals with deference and to show them respect in all interactions.
Modesty in dress
In Kandahār, modest dress is important, especially for women. It is respectful to dress in a conservative manner, covering the body and wearing a headscarf.
Hospitality
Hospitality is highly valued, and it is customary to offer guests tea or a meal as a sign of respect and welcome.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kandahār with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Kandahār, Afghanistan, tipping is not a common practice in most places. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be added to the bill, in which case an additional tip is not necessary.
Payment
Cash is the primary form of payment in Kandahār, Afghanistan. Credit and debit card acceptance may be limited, especially in smaller establishments. It is advisable to carry enough cash when traveling in Kandahār for daily expenses and transactions.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kandahār.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to visit Kandahār. Pleasant weather with blooming flowers and mild temperatures.
Autumn
Another good time to visit. Mild temperatures and clear skies, suitable for outdoor activities.
Summer
Hot and dry weather. Not ideal for outdoor activities due to high temperatures.
Winter
Cold with occasional snowfall. Some attractions may be closed, but indoor cultural experiences are still available.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Band-e Amir National Park
A stunning national park known for its beautiful lake formations, rugged mountains, and diverse wildlife.
Kandahar Province Mountains
The ranges surrounding Kandahar offer numerous trails for hiking with panoramic views of the valleys and rugged terrain.
Spin Boldak
Located close to the Afghan-Pakistan border, this area features various hiking routes that lead to scenic overlooks and natural beauty.
Arg Kandahar
Historic site with surrounding hills that provide opportunities for hiking and exploration in a culturally rich area.
Khakrez Valley
A lush valley known for its natural landscapes and hiking trails, offering a quieter experience away from city life.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kandahār through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Kandahār by plane.
Kandahar International Airport (KDH)
The main international airport serving Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL)
Located in Kabul, this is the largest international airport in Afghanistan.
Bagram Airfield (BGH)
A military base in Afghanistan that has been used as an international cargo and military airfield.
Herat International Airport (HEA)
An international airport located in Herat, serving the western region of Afghanistan.
Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport (MZR)
An international airport located near Mazar-i-Sharif, serving northern Afghanistan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Pashtun
The predominant ethnic group in Kandahār, comprising the majority of the population and traditionally influential in the region.
Tajik
A significant minority in Kandahār, often engaged in trade and commerce.
Hazara
A smaller ethnic group in Kandahār, historically facing discrimination and often residing in distinct communities.
Uzbek
A minority ethnic group in the region, primarily found in certain areas of Kandahār.
Aimaq
An ethnic group with a presence in Kandahār, known for their pastoral lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Kandahār, widely played and followed by the local population. The sport has gained popularity since Afghanistan's national team started participating in international tournaments.
Football (Soccer)
Football is another highly popular sport in Kandahār, with many local teams and leagues. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often played in streets, schools, and fields.
Buzkashi
Buzkashi, a traditional Afghan sport similar to polo, is very popular in Kandahār. It involves horse-mounted players trying to place a goat or calf carcass in a goal, and it is often a significant cultural event.
Volleyball
Volleyball is popular among both men and women in Kandahār. It is often played in schools and community gatherings, and there are local tournaments held regularly.
Wrestling
Traditional wrestling is also favored, with events held during festivals and gatherings, showcasing strength and skill.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Options for vegetarians include hearty vegetable stews, fresh salads, and savory lentil dishes widely available at most local eateries.
Vegan
Vegan travelers can savor dishes like Sabzi Chalaw (spinach and rice) and delicious lentil-based soups sourced from various vegetarian-friendly outlets.
Gluten-Free
For gluten-free dining, prioritizing rice-based dishes such as Kabuli Pulao and seeking out eateries that offer grilled meats and naturally gluten-free fare is recommended.