bigtravelbuzzBalkh is an ancient city located in northern Afghanistan, known for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and stunning architecture. The city has been a center of civilization for thousands of years and has been ruled by a succession of powerful empires, including the Greeks, Persians, and Mongols. Here are some of the top things to do in Balkh:
Explore the ancient city of Balkh: The city of Balkh is one of the oldest cities in the world and is home to numerous historical and archaeological sites. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient buildings, mosques, and fortresses that date back to the early centuries of Islam.
Visit the Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque is one of the most impressive architectural wonders in the city, built in the 15th century during the Timurid dynasty. The mosque is known for its intricate blue tiles and stunning calligraphy.
Check out the Mausoleum of Rabia Balkhi: The Mausoleum of Rabia Balkhi is the final resting place of the famous female poet and saint, Rabia Balkhi. The mausoleum is a beautiful example of Afghan architecture and features intricate carvings and decoration.
See the Shrine of Hazrat Ali: The Shrine of Hazrat Ali is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims, located in the village of Mazar-i-Sharif near Balkh. The shrine is said to contain the remains of Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad.
Walk around the Bazaar of Balkh: The Bazaar of Balkh is a bustling marketplace that offers visitors the chance to sample local cuisine, purchase handmade crafts, and mingle with locals.
Visit the Balkh Museum: The Balkh Museum is home to a vast collection of archaeological artifacts, including ancient coins, pottery, and sculptures.
Attend the Balkh International Film Festival: The Balkh International Film Festival is a yearly event that showcases the work of Afghan and international filmmakers. The festival is a great way to experience Afghan culture and meet locals.
Balkh is a beautiful and historically rich city that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Afghanistan’s past and present.
Places to Visit in Balkh
There are many places to visit in Balkh, Afghanistan. Here are some of the top attractions:
Balkh Citadel: This ancient citadel dates back to the 1st century and is believed to be the oldest building in Balkh.
Shrine of Hazrat Ali: This is one of the most important religious sites in Afghanistan, and it is believed to contain the remains of Hazrat Ali, a cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad.
Blue Mosque: Also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali Mazar, this mosque was built in the 15th century and features intricate blue-tiled mosaics.
Takht-i-Rustam: This is a hilltop fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Qara Kelisa: This is a 10th-century Armenian monastery that is located just outside of Balkh.
Balkh Museum: This museum contains a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Balkh, including pottery, coins, and jewelry.
Balkh Bazaar: This bustling market is a great place to experience the local culture and pick up souvenirs.
Masjid-i-No Gumbad: This is a 15th-century mosque that is known for its unique blue dome.
Jahanabad Buddha: This is a 6th-century statue of Buddha that is carved into the side of a mountain.
Balkh Gardens: These beautiful gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Best Time To Visit Balkh
The best time to visit Balkh is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is mild, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The springtime, in particular, is a great time to visit Balkh, as the city is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. The winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold, and the summer months, from June to August, can be very hot, so it’s best to avoid visiting during these times if you can. Additionally, it’s important to check the current safety situation in the region before planning your trip.
How to get around in Balkh
The best way to get around in Balkh is by taxi or private car. Taxis are readily available in the city and are a convenient and affordable mode of transportation. However, it’s important to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. You can also rent a car with a driver, which can be arranged through your hotel or a local travel agency.
Another option is to hire a bicycle or motorbike, which can be a fun way to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. However, it’s important to be cautious while riding and to wear a helmet.
Public transportation is limited in Balkh, and buses are mainly used for intercity travel. There are also shared taxis that run between Balkh and other nearby cities, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Walking is another option if you’re exploring the city center or nearby attractions. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, especially if you’re traveling alone or at night.
Where to eat in Balkh
Balkh has a variety of local and international cuisine options for visitors. Here are some recommended places to eat in Balkh:
Mazar-e Sharif Restaurant: This popular restaurant serves traditional Afghan dishes such as mantu, qabuli palaw, and shorba. The restaurant also has a garden where you can enjoy your meal in a peaceful setting.
Qashqa Cafe & Restaurant: This cafe and restaurant is known for its delicious coffee and tea, as well as its sandwiches and baked goods. They also serve a variety of Afghan and international dishes.
Shahrzad Restaurant: This restaurant offers a wide variety of Iranian and Afghan dishes, including kebabs, stews, and rice dishes. They also have a cozy indoor seating area and an outdoor garden.
Serajuddin Ice Cream: This popular ice cream shop is a must-visit in Balkh. They serve a variety of flavors, including pistachio, saffron, and rose, and their ice cream is made with natural ingredients.
Shadi Cafe & Restaurant: This restaurant serves a variety of Afghan and international dishes, including pizza and burgers. They also have a rooftop seating area with a beautiful view of the city.
Note: It’s always a good idea to check with locals for their recommendations, as there may be new or lesser-known places that offer great food as well.
Famous street stalls in Balkh
Balkh is known for its vibrant street food scene, with many local vendors selling traditional Afghan snacks and drinks. Here are some famous street stalls in Balkh:
Bolani Cart: Bolani is a popular Afghan snack that consists of a thin layer of dough stuffed with potato, spinach, or pumpkin. You can find many street vendors selling bolani carts in the streets of Balkh.
Chai Dukan: Chai (tea) is an essential part of Afghan culture, and you can find many chai dukan (tea stalls) in Balkh. These stalls typically serve hot, sweet black tea along with naan bread and sometimes sweets or snacks.
Quroot: Quroot is a type of cheese made from strained yogurt, and it’s a popular snack in Afghanistan. You can find many street vendors selling quroot balls or quroot spread, which can be eaten on their own or with bread.
Samosa Cart: Samosas are a popular snack in many parts of the world, and you can find many street vendors selling samosa carts in Balkh. These small fried or baked pastries are filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat.
Jalebi Cart: Jalebi is a sweet treat made from fried dough soaked in sugar syrup. You can find many street vendors selling jalebi carts in Balkh, particularly during festivals or special occasions.
Note: When eating street food, it’s important to be cautious and choose vendors that have clean and hygienic preparation practices. It’s also a good idea to check with locals for their recommendations on safe and delicious street food options.
Where to stay in Balkh
Luxury accommodation
There are several luxury accommodation options in Balkh. Here are some of them:
Mazar Hotel: This hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. There’s an on-site restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, as well as a fitness center and meeting facilities.
Balkh Serena Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Balkh and offers luxurious rooms with traditional Afghan decor. It features a spa, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.
Zarshir Hotel: This hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. There’s an on-site restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, as well as a fitness center and meeting facilities.
Qasre Khurasan Hotel: This hotel offers luxurious rooms with traditional Afghan decor. It features a spa, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant that serves local and international cuisine. The hotel also has meeting facilities and a business center.
Khwaja Parsa Hotel: This hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. There’s an on-site restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, as well as a fitness center and meeting facilities.
Where to stay in Balkh
Budget accommodation
Balkh offers a range of budget accommodations for travelers. Some of the popular options are:
Marco Polo Hotel: Located in the city center, this hotel offers basic rooms at an affordable price. It is a good option for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay in the heart of the city.
Zahra Hotel: This hotel is located in a quiet area and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the rates are reasonable.
Ariana Hotel: This hotel is located near the Balkh University and offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The rates are affordable, making it a good option for budget travelers.
Mazar Hotel: This hotel is located in the Mazar-e-Sharif area and offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the hotel is located close to many restaurants and shops.
Safi Balkh Hotel: This hotel is located in the city center and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The rates are affordable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
These are just a few of the budget accommodation options available in Balkh. Travelers can also consider staying in hostels or guesthouses, which are often even more affordable.
Travel Tips Balkh
here are some travel tips for Balkh:
Dress modestly and appropriately, as Balkh is a conservative area with a large Muslim population.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
Make sure to carry a sufficient amount of cash with you, as credit cards may not be widely accepted.
Bargaining is a common practice in local markets, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a good price.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are traveling alone or at night.
Take necessary precautions to stay safe, including securing your belongings and avoiding areas that are known to be unsafe.
If you plan to visit the historical sites, consider hiring a local guide who can provide you with valuable insights and information about the area.
Keep in mind that the summers can be hot in Balkh, so plan your activities accordingly.
Be prepared for occasional power outages and limited internet connectivity in some areas.
Finally, make sure to try some of the local cuisine, including Afghan kebabs, naan bread, and other traditional dishes.