bigtravelbuzzUruzgan is a province located in the central part of Afghanistan, bordering Kandahar to the south and Helmand to the west. While Uruzgan has seen its share of conflict in recent years, it is home to some stunning natural scenery and historical sites that are worth exploring. Here are some things to do and see in Uruzgan:
Visit the ancient city of Tarinkot: Tarinkot is the capital city of Uruzgan and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city has been inhabited for over 2,000 years and is home to a number of ancient ruins and historical sites.
Explore the Band-e Amir National Park: Band-e Amir is a stunning national park located in the northern part of Uruzgan. The park is home to a series of six deep blue lakes that are surrounded by towering cliffs and rugged mountains.
Visit the Shrine of Hazrat Ali: The Shrine of Hazrat Ali is located in the village of Shorabak in Uruzgan. The shrine is dedicated to Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, and is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims.
Explore the Charchino valley: The Charchino valley is located in the western part of Uruzgan and is known for its stunning natural scenery, including rugged mountains, deep canyons, and rolling hills.
Trek in the Hindu Kush mountains: The Hindu Kush mountains run through Uruzgan and offer some of the best trekking opportunities in Afghanistan. Trekking in the region is a great way to explore the rugged landscape and experience the local culture.
Attend a local bazaar: Uruzgan is home to a number of colorful bazaars where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, clothing, and other goods.
Visit the Mirwais Khan Hot Springs: The Mirwais Khan Hot Springs are located in the southern part of Uruzgan and are known for their therapeutic properties. The hot springs are a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
While Uruzgan has seen its share of conflict in recent years, it is important to take appropriate precautions when visiting the province. It is recommended to check travel advisories and security warnings issued by your country’s embassy or consulate in Afghanistan before traveling to Uruzgan. It is also recommended to use a reputable tour operator with experience in the region to help ensure your safety and security.
Places to Visit in Uruzgan
Uruzgan is a province in Afghanistan that is known for its rugged and mountainous terrain. It is not a highly developed tourist destination, but it does offer some interesting sites to visit for those interested in history and nature. Here are some of the top places to visit in Uruzgan:
Tarin Kowt: Tarin Kowt is the capital city of Uruzgan and the largest city in the province. It is a good starting point for exploring the region and offers a few amenities for visitors, such as hotels and restaurants.
Kajran: Kajran is a district in Uruzgan that is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. It is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
Charchino: Charchino is a small village in Uruzgan that is famous for its ancient citadel, which dates back to the 4th century BC. The citadel is believed to have been built by Alexander the Great.
Tang-e Chinaran: Tang-e Chinaran is a narrow gorge in Uruzgan that is known for its stunning natural beauty. The gorge is lined with tall, narrow cliffs and is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.
Deh Rawud: Deh Rawud is a district in Uruzgan that is known for its ancient ruins, including the remains of a Buddhist monastery that date back to the 2nd century AD.
Tarnak River: The Tarnak River is a major river that runs through Uruzgan and is known for its scenic beauty. It is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.
Hazrat Sultan Mosque: The Hazrat Sultan Mosque is a beautiful mosque located in Tarin Kowt that is known for its intricate tile work and elegant architecture.
Kakarak: Kakarak is a small town in Uruzgan that is famous for its hot springs. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.
These are just a few of the top places to visit in Uruzgan. Visitors to the region should also be aware of the ongoing security situation and should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Best Time To Visit Uruzgan
The best time to visit Uruzgan is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy the natural beauty of the region without extreme temperatures or weather conditions. The summer months (July to August) can be very hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, while winters (December to February) can be cold and snowy. It’s important to note that Uruzgan is also a volatile region due to ongoing security issues, so travelers should consult with their government’s travel advisories before planning a trip.
How to get around in Uruzgan
Getting around in Uruzgan can be difficult due to security concerns and the rugged terrain. The safest way to travel is by using private vehicles or hiring a trusted local driver. There are also a limited number of public transport options available such as buses and taxis, but they are not recommended for foreigners due to security risks. It’s also important to note that many roads in Uruzgan are unpaved, making travel slow and sometimes difficult, especially during rainy seasons. If you are planning to travel in Uruzgan, it’s essential to do your research and ensure that you have a reliable means of transportation.
Where to eat in Uruzgan
Uruzgan is a remote province in Afghanistan, and there are limited dining options available for visitors. Most restaurants and food establishments are located in the provincial capital, Tarin Kowt. Some of the popular local dishes that you can try in Uruzgan include:
Kabuli Pulao – A traditional Afghan dish made with rice, lamb, and various spices.
Mantu – Steamed dumplings filled with spiced ground beef or lamb.
Qabili Palau – Another popular Afghan rice dish made with lamb or beef and topped with raisins, carrots, and almonds.
Kofta – Grilled meatballs made with beef or lamb and served with bread.
Ashak – Dumplings filled with leeks and topped with tomato and yogurt sauce.
Most dining options in Uruzgan are small, local establishments, and it’s recommended to ask locals for recommendations or consult with your hotel for suggestions. It’s important to note that the province has a conservative Islamic culture, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly when dining out.
Famous street stalls in Uruzgan
Uruzgan is a remote province in Afghanistan, and there are limited street food options available for visitors. Most food stalls and vendors are located in the provincial capital, Tarin Kowt. Some of the popular local snacks that you can find in Uruzgan include:
Bolani – A type of stuffed flatbread filled with potatoes, leeks, or spinach and served with yogurt dip.
Chapli kebab – A spicy beef or lamb patty served with naan bread and chutney.
Samosas – Deep-fried savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat.
Ashak – Dumplings filled with leeks and topped with tomato and yogurt sauce.
Jalebi – A sweet, spiral-shaped dessert made from deep-fried batter and soaked in sugar syrup.
Most street food options in Uruzgan are small, local vendors, and it’s recommended to ask locals for recommendations or consult with your hotel for suggestions. It’s important to note that the province has a conservative Islamic culture, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly when dining out.
Where to stay in Uruzgan
Luxury accommodation
Uruzgan is a remote and volatile province in Afghanistan, and there are limited options for luxury accommodations. However, there are some comfortable hotels available in the provincial capital, Tarin Kowt, that offer basic amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and hot water. Some of the options for luxury accommodation in Uruzgan include:
Pamir Guest House – This guest house is located in the center of Tarin Kowt and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It also has a restaurant that serves Afghan and international cuisine.
Uruzgan Hotel – This hotel is located in the heart of Tarin Kowt and offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. It has a restaurant that serves Afghan and western-style meals.
Shamshad Guest House – This guest house is located in a quiet residential area in Tarin Kowt and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. It also has a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
It’s important to note that Uruzgan is a volatile province with ongoing security concerns, and visitors should exercise caution and stay informed about local developments before making travel plans.
Where to stay in Uruzgan
Budget accommodation
There are limited options for budget accommodation in Uruzgan, but there are a few guest houses and hotels that offer basic amenities at affordable prices. Some of the options for budget accommodation in Uruzgan include:
Sakhi Guest House – This guest house is located in the center of Tarin Kowt and offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms. It also has a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
Arian Guest House – This guest house is located in a residential area of Tarin Kowt and offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms. It has a restaurant that serves Afghan and western-style meals.
Nasrat Hotel – This hotel is located in the center of Tarin Kowt and offers basic rooms with private bathrooms. It has a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
It’s important to note that Uruzgan is a volatile province with ongoing security concerns, and visitors should exercise caution and stay informed about local developments before making travel plans. It’s also recommended to book accommodations in advance and communicate with the hotel or guest house before arriving.
Travel Tips Uruzgan
Uruzgan is a volatile province in Afghanistan, and travel to this region can be challenging and potentially dangerous. However, if you decide to travel to Uruzgan, here are some tips that may help:
Obtain the necessary permits and permissions: Travel to Uruzgan requires special permits and permissions from the Afghan government and local authorities. Make sure you have obtained all the necessary permits before traveling.
Be aware of security risks: Uruzgan is a high-risk area due to ongoing security concerns. Stay informed about local security developments, and follow the advice of local authorities and your embassy or consulate.
Dress appropriately: Afghanistan is a conservative country, and it’s important to dress modestly. Avoid wearing revealing or tight clothing, and cover your head, arms, and legs.
Respect local customs and traditions: Afghanistan has a rich culture and traditions that should be respected. Ask for permission before taking photographs of people, and avoid sensitive or controversial topics in conversations.
Carry enough cash: There are limited ATMs and banking facilities in Uruzgan, so it’s important to carry enough cash for your travel expenses.
Learn some basic Dari or Pashto: Dari and Pashto are the official languages of Afghanistan. Learning some basic phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals.
Hire a reputable guide or tour operator: It’s recommended to hire a reputable guide or tour operator who knows the region and can provide you with local knowledge and assistance.
Be flexible: Travel to Uruzgan can be unpredictable, and plans may change due to security concerns or other factors. Stay flexible and open to alternative plans.
Overall, it’s important to exercise caution and stay informed when traveling to Uruzgan. Keep in mind that this region is currently considered high-risk, and travel here may not be suitable for everyone.