bigtravelbuzzFarah is a province in western Afghanistan, bordering Iran to the west and the provinces of Herat to the northwest, Ghor to the northeast, and Nimroz to the south. The provincial capital is the city of Farah.
Places to Visit in Farah
Farah is a province in western Afghanistan with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some places to visit in Farah:
Anar Darah Historical Place: Anar Darah is an ancient site located in the district of Anar Darah. It is a historical and cultural complex that includes a fortress, a citadel, and a series of rock carvings that date back to the Kushan period.
Abu Nasr Parsa Mosque: Abu Nasr Parsa Mosque is an ancient mosque located in the city of Farah. It is believed to have been built during the Islamic period and is one of the most important historical sites in the city.
Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine: The Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine is a popular religious site located in the city of Farah. It is dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, who lived in the 11th century.
Farah Dam: The Farah Dam is a major source of water for the city of Farah and the surrounding areas. It is also a popular picnic spot and a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Bala Baluk Castle: Bala Baluk Castle is an ancient castle located in the district of Bala Baluk. It is believed to have been built during the Kushan period and is a great place to explore the history and culture of the region.
Sabzak Pass: Sabzak Pass is a scenic mountain pass located in the district of Anar Darah. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
Qala-e-Naw Park: Qala-e-Naw Park is a beautiful park located in the city of Qala-e-Naw. It is a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Chaghcharan Fort: Chaghcharan Fort is an ancient fort located in the district of Chaghcharan. It is believed to have been built during the Kushan period and is a great place to explore the history and culture of the region.
Best Time To Visit Farah
The best time to visit Farah is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and pleasant. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. The winter months (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to freezing point at night. However, winter is a good time to visit if you want to experience snowfall and winter sports.
Things to Do in Farah
Farah is a province in western Afghanistan, known for its rugged mountains and arid plains. It is a great destination for adventure enthusiasts who enjoy trekking and exploring the outdoors. Here are some things to do in Farah:
Trekking and hiking: Farah has several mountain ranges and offers excellent trekking opportunities. The mountains are home to diverse flora and fauna and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Visit the Minaret of Jam: The Minaret of Jam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Hari River valley. It is a magnificent 12th-century tower, standing at a height of 65 meters.
Explore the city of Farah: The city of Farah has several historical sites, including the Farah Citadel, which dates back to the 19th century. The city also has a bustling bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts and textiles.
Visit the Band-e-Amir National Park: Although not in Farah province, the Band-e-Amir National Park is located nearby and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park has several lakes and is home to rare species such as the Afghan snow leopard.
Attend cultural festivals: Farah province hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, where you can witness traditional dances, music performances, and taste local cuisine.
Visit the Qala-i-Naw city: Qala-i-Naw is the capital of Farah province and has several historical sites, including the Qala-i-Naw Citadel, which dates back to the 18th century.
Experience the local culture: Farah is home to several ethnic groups, including Pashtuns, Tajiks, and Balochs. Experiencing their unique culture and way of life is a must-do while in the province.
Take a camel ride: Camels are an integral part of life in Farah, and taking a camel ride is an excellent way to experience the local culture and explore the surrounding desert landscapes.
Visit the Kherqa Sharif Shrine: The Kherqa Sharif Shrine is a sacred site located in the Bala Baluk district of Farah province. It is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and attracts visitors from all over Afghanistan and beyond.
Explore the Bala Murghab district: The Bala Murghab district is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Murghab River, which flows through the area. It is also home to several historical sites, including the Bala Murghab Citadel.
How to get around in Farah
Farah is a relatively small province, and public transportation options are limited. The most common mode of transportation for locals is by private car or taxi. However, travelers can also hire private cars or taxis for transportation within the province.
It’s worth noting that the roads in Farah can be rough and poorly maintained, particularly in rural areas, so it’s advisable to travel in a sturdy vehicle with an experienced driver.
Additionally, Farah does not have a public transportation system such as buses or trains, so travelers should plan on arranging private transportation in advance.
Where to eat in Farah
Farah is a small province in Afghanistan and there are limited options for dining out. Most of the restaurants in Farah are small local eateries that serve traditional Afghan cuisine. Visitors can find kebabs, rice dishes, and stews as well as fresh bread at these restaurants. Some of the popular local restaurants in Farah include Agha Jan Kebab, Shadan Restaurant, and Mirwais Kebab House. It’s important to note that due to the security situation in Farah, it’s recommended to eat at established restaurants and avoid street food. It’s also a good idea to check with locals or your hotel for recommendations on safe and reliable dining options.
Where to stay in Farah
There are not many luxury accommodation options available in Farah. However, some of the best hotels in Farah are:
Farahi Hotel: This is one of the most popular hotels in Farah. The hotel has a restaurant, a coffee shop, and a business center. The rooms are well-appointed and come with all modern amenities.
Farah Guest House: This is a simple and budget-friendly guest house that offers clean and comfortable rooms. The guest house has a restaurant that serves traditional Afghan cuisine.
Rahat Hotel: This hotel is located in the center of the city and offers comfortable rooms with all modern amenities. The hotel has a restaurant that serves both local and international cuisine.
Ariana Hotel: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has a restaurant that serves traditional Afghan cuisine.
Tariq Guest House: This is a budget-friendly guest house that offers clean and comfortable rooms. The guest house has a restaurant that serves traditional Afghan cuisine.
Please note that the standards of luxury accommodation may not be the same as those in Western countries.
Travel Tips Farah
Farah is a relatively remote and underdeveloped province in Afghanistan, and it is not a typical tourist destination. However, if you do plan on visiting Farah, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
Security: Farah is situated in a volatile region and is known to be a stronghold of the Taliban. It is advisable to exercise extreme caution and avoid traveling alone or after dark. It is also recommended to keep a low profile and avoid wearing clothing that might draw attention.
Transport: There is no public transport in Farah, and taxis are the only way to get around. Make sure you agree on a fare before getting into a taxi, as there are no meters.
Language: Dari and Pashto are the official languages of Farah, and most people do not speak English. It is advisable to learn a few basic phrases in the local language to help you get around and communicate with the locals.
Accommodation: There are only a few options for accommodation in Farah, and they are mostly basic guesthouses. It is advisable to make reservations in advance if possible.
Health: Medical facilities in Farah are very limited, and it is recommended to bring a first-aid kit with basic medications for common ailments. It is also advisable to drink only bottled water and avoid eating street food to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Culture and customs: Farah is a conservative province, and visitors are advised to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
Climate: Farah has a desert climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder.