Four-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Afghanistan

Day 1: Kabul (Arrival and City Exploration)

Places to Go:

• Bala Hissar Fort: A historical fort overlooking the city, offering a panoramic view of Kabul.
• National Museum of Afghanistan: To learn about Afghanistan’s rich history and culture.
• Chicken Street: A bustling market famous for its shops selling antiques, carpets, and traditional Afghan clothes.

Activities:

• Visit the Afghan Institute of Learning (AIL): A women’s education center founded by Sakena Yacoobi.
• Explore the vibrant local food scene, especially in the Pul-e Charkhi area.

Things to Know:

• Afghanistan is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s essential to respect local customs and dress modestly.
• English is spoken by many Afghans, but it’s always helpful to have some basic Dari or Pashto phrases.

Visa Requirements:

• Visas for Afghanistan are issued through the Embassy of Afghanistan in your home country. The process can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.

Transportation:

• Taxis and shared minivans (known as “Share Taxis”) are common modes of transportation within Kabul. Be sure to negotiate prices before getting into a taxi.

Day 2: Bamiyan (Historical Sites)

Places to Go:

• Buddha Statues: Giant statues carved into the cliff sides, destroyed by the Taliban but recently restored.
• Shahr-e Gholghola (City of Shouting): The ruins of ancient city built during the Hellenistic period.
• Haji Mohammad Hussain Mosque: A beautiful mosque built in 1651.

Activities:

• Explore the surrounding valleys and hike to see the natural beauty of the area.
• Visit a local community to learn about their culture and traditions.

Day 3: Herat (Historical City)

Places to Go:

• The Citadel of Herat: A historical fortress offering panoramic views of the city.
• Friday Mosque: One of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Afghanistan, built over several centuries.
• Erk Milli Bazaar: A bustling market selling traditional Afghan goods like carpets, clothes, and jewelry.

Activities:

• Visit the tombs of Ghauri and Timur in the Ghauri Idgha complex.
• Stroll along the Oozbek Hafiz River.

Day 4: Mazar-e-Sharif (Visiting the Blue Mosque)

Places to Go:

• The Blue Mosque (Arg Mosque): A stunning mosque famous for its blue mosaic tiles.
• Tomb of Hazrat Ali: The shrine of Hazrat Ali, the fourth caliph and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.
• Arch of Balkh: An ancient monument that marks the entrance to the city.

Activities:

• Explore the bustling bazaar of Mazar-e-Sharif.
• Visit the local museum to learn more about the region’s history.