Things To Do
in Panjāb

A thick noodle and lentil soup often enriched with yogurt and fried garlic — warming and widely available in homes and small eateries.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked lamb or beef stew with onions and mild spices served with steamed rice; a common main dish at gatherings and guesthouses.

Thin stuffed flatbread (potato, spinach or leeks) pan-fried and sold at markets or prepared at home; great for a quick snack.

Local yoghurt, fresh cheeses and buttermilk from sheep or goats are staples, often eaten at breakfast or with bread.

The town market sells fresh seasonal produce, dried fruits (apricots, raisins), nuts, flatbreads and simple snacks; try fresh naan, roasted seeds and sweet pastries when available.

Small local tea houses serve strong black tea, samosas and flatbreads — ideal for people-watching and informal conversations.

Wear conservative clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women should have a headscarf available in rural areas and during mosque visits.

Avoid loud behavior during prayer times, ask before entering religious sites, and accept that alcohol is not available and public consumption is unacceptable.

Always request permission before taking portraits, particularly of women or at religious events; a small gift or showing the photo can be good manners.

If invited to a home, bring a small gift (sweets or tea) and accept offers of tea; remove shoes where appropriate and follow hosts’ lead.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips for drivers, guides and hotel staff (a few hundred Afghani or a couple of dollars) are customary if service is good. In family-run guesthouses, a modest thank-you gift or tip is appropriate.

Cash (Afghan Afghani - AFN) is the primary payment method; carry sufficient cash as ATMs and card acceptance are very limited outside Bamyan and major cities. Change and small denominations are useful; exchange in Kabul or Bamyan if needed.

Snow melts and valleys begin to green; wildflowers appear and temperatures moderate. Roads may still be affected by late snow in higher passes; spring is excellent for moderate hikes and blossoms.

Warm, mostly dry days with cool nights at altitude; this is the main travel season with accessible highland trails and clear skies. Expect more local activity and best conditions for lake visits and camping.

Stable weather, crisp air and golden hillside colors; days are pleasant but nights turn cold. Early snow can begin in late autumn; ideal for photography and quieter travel.

Cold with heavy snowfall at times; many roads and passes close and services are limited. Travel is challenging — only recommended with local knowledge, appropriate gear and reliable 4x4 transport.

Trails around the tiered lakes offering short to moderate hikes with exceptional scenery; accessible in summer and autumn when roads are open.

Longer alpine routes into the Koh-e Baba range for experienced hikers, offering mountain passes, shepherd camps and panoramic summits; requires good fitness and a guide.

Local ridge and valley walks starting from town for half-day hikes, good for birdwatching and sunset views over terraced fields.

Network of footpaths linking nearby villages — culturally rich walks that reveal daily rural life and traditional farming landscapes.

The closest regional airport with limited domestic flights; can be used as an access point to Bamyan Province followed by overland travel to Panjāb. Flight schedules are irregular and seasonal.

Afghanistan's main international airport. From Kabul you can travel overland to Bamyan and onward to Panjāb by road (long journey) or via domestic connections when available.

Vegetarian options are usually available (lentil stews, dairy, potato or spinach-filled bolani, rice and vegetable sides). Make your preferences clear and be flexible — protein often comes from dairy or legumes.

Vegan choices exist but are more limited; rely on vegetable stews, lentils and bread while confirming recipes contain no dairy or ghee.

Wheat-based bread and noodles are common; gluten-free diets are difficult to manage unless you self-cater with rice- or dairy-based dishes and bring snacks.

Bring essential medications and allergy information in Dari or English. Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid uncooked salads if unsure of hygiene standards.