bigtravelbuzzHerat is a city in western Afghanistan, located near the border with Iran. It has a rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back more than 2,000 years. Herat was an important center of the Timurid Empire during the 15th century, and it is known for its beautiful architecture and Islamic art. Here are some things to do and see in Herat:
Visit the Herat Citadel: This ancient fortress dates back to the 3rd century BC and is one of the most important historical landmarks in Herat. It has been restored in recent years and now houses a museum with exhibits on Herat’s history.
Explore the Friday Mosque: This mosque was built in the 12th century and is one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in Afghanistan. It features intricate tilework and a large courtyard.
Visit the Khwaja Parsa Mausoleum: This mausoleum is located in the heart of the city and is the burial place of a 12th-century Sufi saint. It is a beautiful example of Persian-style architecture.
See the Minaret of Jam: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located about 215 kilometers from Herat and is one of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world. The minaret dates back to the 12th century and stands 65 meters tall.
Wander around the Old City: The Old City of Herat is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that date back to the 13th century. It is a great place to explore and see some of the traditional architecture of the region.
Visit the Goharshad Mosque: This mosque was built in the 15th century and is one of the most beautiful buildings in Herat. It features intricate tilework and a large dome.
Shop at the Herat Bazaar: The Herat Bazaar is a vibrant market where you can find everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.
Attend a traditional music performance: Herat is known for its rich musical tradition, and you can attend performances of traditional Afghan music at venues around the city.
In terms of travel tips for Herat, it is important to prioritize your safety and security, especially given the ongoing security concerns in Afghanistan. It is recommended to consult with a security professional and to travel with an experienced guide and local contacts.
Places to Visit in Herat
Herat is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top places to visit in Herat:
Herat Citadel: The Herat Citadel is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 3rd century BC. It has been restored in recent years and now houses a museum with exhibits on Herat’s history.
Friday Mosque: The Friday Mosque is one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in Afghanistan. It features intricate tilework and a large courtyard.
Khwaja Parsa Mausoleum: The Khwaja Parsa Mausoleum is located in the heart of the city and is the burial place of a 12th-century Sufi saint. It is a beautiful example of Persian-style architecture.
Minaret of Jam: The Minaret of Jam is a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 215 kilometers from Herat. It is one of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world and dates back to the 12th century.
Herat Old City: The Old City of Herat is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that date back to the 13th century. It is a great place to explore and see some of the traditional architecture of the region.
Goharshad Mosque: The Goharshad Mosque is one of the most beautiful buildings in Herat. It features intricate tilework and a large dome.
Herat Bazaar: The Herat Bazaar is a vibrant market where you can find everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.
Qala-e-Ikhtyaruddin: Qala-e-Ikhtyaruddin is a medieval fort located on a hilltop overlooking Herat. It was built in the 14th century and offers panoramic views of the city.
Musalla Complex: The Musalla Complex is a group of buildings that includes a mosque, madrasa, and library. It dates back to the 14th century and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
Tomb of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari: The Tomb of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari is the burial place of a 10th-century Sufi mystic. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims and is located just outside the city.
These are just some of the top places to visit in Herat. There are many other historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites to explore in the city.
Best Time To Visit Herat
The best time to visit Herat is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, the temperature is typically between 20°C to 30°C, making it comfortable to explore the city’s attractions.
Summer in Herat (June to August) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. The heat can make it challenging to explore the city during the day, but the nights can be more comfortable. Winter (December to February) in Herat can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall.
Overall, the best time to visit Herat is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is mild, and the city is at its most beautiful. However, if you can handle the extreme heat of summer or the cold of winter, you may be able to find better deals on accommodations and fewer crowds.
How to get around in Herat
There are several ways to get around Herat:
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Herat and are the most convenient way to get around the city. They are relatively affordable, and you can negotiate the price with the driver before getting in.
Public buses: Public buses are available in Herat, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. They are also not very reliable, and schedules may not be adhered to strictly.
Car rental: You can rent a car in Herat if you have a valid driver’s license. However, the driving conditions in Herat can be challenging, and it’s recommended that you hire a local driver instead.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the old city of Herat and some of its attractions. It’s a safe and pleasant way to get around, but it may not be suitable for longer distances or in areas with heavy traffic.
Bicycle: Bicycles are available for rent in Herat, and they can be a great way to explore the city’s quieter neighborhoods and attractions. However, the traffic in Herat can be chaotic, so it’s essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when cycling.
Overall, taxis are the most convenient and reliable way to get around Herat, but it’s always a good idea to agree on the fare before getting in. If you’re looking for a more authentic and slower-paced experience, walking or cycling can be a great way to explore the city.
Where to eat in Herat
Herat is famous for its delicious traditional Afghan cuisine, and there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some popular places to eat in Herat:
Tabassum Garden Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the heart of the city and offers a wide range of traditional Afghan dishes, including kebabs, pulao, and qorma.
Nazo Ana Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant in Herat, known for its delicious kebabs and other grilled meats. The restaurant has a beautiful garden setting, and the service is excellent.
Zahra’s Kitchen: This restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious Afghan food, including mantu, ashak, and other traditional dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to try authentic Afghan cuisine.
Hameedi Confectionery: This is a popular bakery in Herat, known for its delicious pastries and sweets, including baklava, qottab, and other local treats.
Cafe Sufi: This cafe is located in the old city of Herat and offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes a variety of coffee, tea, and snacks, and it’s a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Herat. There are plenty of other restaurants and cafes to choose from, so be sure to explore and try out the local cuisine.
Famous street stalls in Herat
Herat is famous for its vibrant street food culture, and there are many street stalls and food carts selling delicious and affordable snacks throughout the city. Here are some popular street stalls to check out in Herat:
Chai Wallahs: Herat has many chai wallahs, or tea sellers, who brew and serve hot tea on the streets. These chai wallahs offer a great opportunity to experience Afghan hospitality and enjoy a cup of tea with locals.
Bolani Stalls: Bolani is a traditional Afghan flatbread filled with potatoes, leeks, or spinach. Bolani stalls are popular in Herat, and you can find them in most bazaars and busy streets.
Kebab Carts: Kebabs are a staple of Afghan cuisine, and you can find many kebab carts and food stalls selling grilled meats in Herat. These kebab carts offer delicious and affordable meals and are popular with both locals and visitors.
Qottab Vendors: Qottab is a traditional sweet pastry filled with nuts and cardamom. You can find qottab vendors in the bazaars and busy streets of Herat, and they are a great way to try a local treat.
Samosa Stands: Samosas are a popular snack in Herat, and you can find many street vendors selling freshly fried samosas throughout the city.
These are just a few of the many street stalls and food carts selling delicious snacks in Herat. Be sure to explore and try out the local street food culture for a truly authentic experience.
Where to stay in Herat
Luxury accommodation
Herat has a range of luxury accommodation options to choose from, including hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best luxury accommodation options in Herat:
Serena Hotel Herat: This is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Herat, offering elegant rooms and suites, a fitness center, swimming pool, and a range of dining options.
Safi Landmark Hotel & Suites: This is another popular luxury hotel in Herat, offering spacious and modern rooms, a fitness center, spa, and rooftop restaurant with stunning city views.
Parsian Hotel: This hotel is located in the city center and offers comfortable and stylish rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a range of amenities, including a fitness center and business center.
Continental Guest House: This is a popular luxury guesthouse in Herat, offering comfortable rooms and suites with traditional Afghan decor, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a garden with a seating area.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options available in Herat. Be sure to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Where to stay in Herat
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget accommodation options in Herat, there are a range of affordable hotels and guesthouses to choose from. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Herat:
Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Guest House: This guesthouse is located in the city center and offers comfortable and affordable rooms with traditional Afghan decor. The guesthouse also has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Omid-e-Herat Guest House: This is another popular budget guesthouse in Herat, offering clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Atiq Hotel: This is a budget hotel located in the heart of the city, offering clean and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Qala-i-Khawaja Hotel: This is a budget hotel located in the old city of Herat, offering basic but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms and a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodation options available in Herat. Be sure to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Travel Tips Herat
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when visiting Herat:
Dress modestly: Herat is a conservative city, and it’s important to dress modestly to respect local customs and traditions. Women should wear clothing that covers their arms and legs, and it’s also a good idea to cover your head when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
Be respectful of local customs: Afghanistan has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Be sure to ask permission before taking photos of people or religious sites, and avoid eating or drinking in public during the holy month of Ramadan.
Carry cash: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Herat, so it’s a good idea to carry cash with you for shopping, dining, and other expenses.
Learn some basic phrases: While English is spoken in some areas of Herat, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Dari or Pashto to help you communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.
Take care when traveling: Afghanistan is a challenging destination, and it’s important to take care when traveling. Avoid traveling at night, and be sure to follow the advice of local authorities and your hotel staff regarding safe areas to visit.
Check travel advisories: Before visiting Herat, be sure to check the latest travel advisories and security alerts from your government and other reputable sources to ensure you are aware of any potential risks or issues.