bigtravelbuzzKandahar is a city located in southern Afghanistan. It is the second-largest city in the country after Kabul and is the capital of Kandahar Province. The city is considered to be one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back more than 3,500 years.
Kandahar has played a significant role in Afghanistan’s history and is often referred to as the “birthplace of the Taliban.” The city has also been the site of numerous conflicts throughout history, including the Soviet-Afghan War and the US-led War in Afghanistan.
Despite its turbulent history, Kandahar is also known for its cultural and historical landmarks, including the ancient citadel of Bala Hissar, the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani, and the Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad. The city is also known for its traditional crafts, such as carpet weaving and pottery, and its delicious local cuisine.
Places to Visit in Kandahar
some popular places to visit in Kandahar are:
Citadel of Bala Hissar: This ancient citadel is located in the heart of Kandahar and dates back to the 3rd century BC. It was used as a military base by various Afghan rulers over the centuries and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani: This is the final resting place of Ahmad Shah Durrani, the founder of the Durrani Empire and the modern state of Afghanistan. The mausoleum is located in the center of Kandahar and is an important historical landmark.
Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad: This is a shrine located inside the Mosque of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad in Kandahar. It is believed to house a cloak that once belonged to the Prophet Muhammad, making it a significant site for Muslim pilgrims.
Arghandab National Park: This national park is located about 20 km north of Kandahar and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including deer, wild boar, and various species of birds. The park is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, including waterfalls and rivers.
Kandahar Museum: This museum is located in the center of Kandahar and houses a collection of artifacts from Kandahar’s rich history, including coins, pottery, and weapons.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar is volatile and can change rapidly. It’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before visiting any tourist attraction or public place.
Best Time To Visit Kandahar
The best time to visit Kandahar is during the spring and fall seasons, which are from March to May and September to November respectively. During these months, the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). The skies are usually clear, and the air is less dusty, making it an ideal time to explore the city and its surrounding areas.
In the summer months, which are from June to August, Kandahar experiences high temperatures that can reach up to 40°C (104°F) or more, making it quite hot and uncomfortable for some visitors. Additionally, the city can experience sandstorms and other weather-related disruptions during this time.
During the winter months, which are from December to February, Kandahar experiences cold temperatures, particularly at night, with occasional snowfall. While the daytime temperatures can be pleasant, the evenings and nights can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping to below freezing.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before planning a trip.
Things to Do in Kandahar
some popular things to do in Kandahar are:
Visit the Citadel of Bala Hissar: This ancient citadel is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kandahar. It has a rich history that dates back to the 3rd century BC and has been used as a military base by various Afghan rulers over the centuries.
Explore the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani: This is the final resting place of Ahmad Shah Durrani, the founder of the Durrani Empire and the modern state of Afghanistan. The mausoleum is located in the center of Kandahar and is an important historical landmark.
Visit the Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad: This is a shrine located inside the Mosque of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad in Kandahar. It is believed to house a cloak that once belonged to the Prophet Muhammad, making it a significant site for Muslim pilgrims.
Visit Arghandab National Park: This national park is located about 20 km north of Kandahar and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including deer, wild boar, and various species of birds. The park is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, including waterfalls and rivers.
Take a walk in the Kandahar Bazaar: This is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Afghanistan, offering a unique shopping experience with a wide range of products, from traditional handicrafts to spices and textiles.
Try local cuisine: Kandahar is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, including kebabs, pilaf, and a variety of meat dishes. Make sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re there.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly. It’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before visiting any tourist attraction or public place.
How to get around in Kandahar
The most common way to get around in Kandahar is by using taxis or private vehicles. Taxis are widely available in the city and can be easily hailed from the street or arranged through your hotel or accommodation. It’s recommended to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Alternatively, you can also hire a private car and driver for a more comfortable and personalized experience. Many hotels and tour operators offer this service, and it’s a good option if you’re traveling with a group or have specific destinations in mind.
Another popular way to get around in Kandahar is by using local buses or shared taxis, known as “sarbaz.” These are typically crowded and uncomfortable, but they’re a cheap and convenient option for shorter journeys within the city.
It’s important to note that traffic in Kandahar can be congested and chaotic, particularly during rush hour. Pedestrian crossings are rare, so it’s important to be cautious when crossing the road.
Additionally, the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before using any form of transportation.
Where to eat in Kandahar
Kandahar is known for its delicious traditional Afghan cuisine, with a variety of options to choose from. Here are some popular places to eat in Kandahar:
Afghan Fried Chicken: This popular fast-food chain is known for its crispy fried chicken, burgers, and sandwiches. It has multiple branches across Kandahar and is a great option for a quick bite.
Kabul Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Afghan dishes, including kebabs, pilaf, and a variety of meat dishes. It’s located in the heart of Kandahar and is a great place to try local cuisine.
Arian Restaurant: This is another popular restaurant in Kandahar that serves a variety of traditional Afghan dishes. The menu includes kebabs, grilled meat, and vegetarian options.
Spice Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its delicious Pakistani and Indian cuisine, including curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes. It’s located in the center of Kandahar and is a great option if you’re looking for a change from Afghan cuisine.
Dera Kabab: This is a popular restaurant chain in Kandahar that specializes in kebabs and grilled meat dishes. It has a variety of options to choose from, including lamb, chicken, and beef.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before visiting any restaurant or public place.
Famous street stalls in Kandahar
Kandahar is known for its vibrant street food culture, and there are many popular street stalls and vendors throughout the city. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Kandahar:
Kandahar Sajji: Sajji is a popular dish in Kandahar made with whole lamb or chicken roasted on a spit over an open flame. Kandahar Sajji is a famous street stall that specializes in this dish and is located near the Kandahar Bazaar.
Bolani: Bolani is a type of stuffed flatbread that is a popular snack in Afghanistan. There are many street vendors in Kandahar that sell bolani, and some of the most famous ones are located in the Kandahar Bazaar.
Ashak: Ashak is a type of dumpling filled with leeks and served with a meat sauce and yogurt. It’s a popular dish in Kandahar, and there are many street vendors that sell it throughout the city.
Kebabs: Kebabs are a staple of Afghan cuisine, and there are many street vendors in Kandahar that specialize in them. Some of the most famous ones are located in the Kandahar Bazaar, where you can find a variety of different types of kebabs, including lamb, chicken, and beef.
Samosas: Samosas are a popular snack in Kandahar and can be found at many street stalls and vendors throughout the city. They are usually filled with a mixture of potatoes, peas, and spices, and are a great option for a quick snack.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before visiting any street stall or public place.
Where to stay in Kandahar
Luxury accommodation
Kandahar has limited options for luxury accommodation, but there are a few high-end hotels that cater to business and government travelers. Here are some luxury accommodation options in Kandahar:
Tazmina Hotel: This is a five-star hotel located in the heart of Kandahar. It has 107 rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also features a restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa.
Mirwais Hotel: This is another luxury hotel in Kandahar that offers modern amenities and services. The hotel has 102 rooms and suites, each decorated with traditional Afghan art and furnishings. It also features a restaurant, a bar, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
Continental Hotel: This is a well-known hotel chain in Afghanistan that has a location in Kandahar. The hotel has 68 rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also features a restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa.
Royal Palace Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Kandahar. The hotel has 60 rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also features a restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before booking any accommodation.
Where to stay in Kandahar
Budget accommodation
There are several budget accommodation options in Kandahar that offer affordable and comfortable lodging for travelers on a tight budget. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Kandahar:
Kandahar Lodge: This is a budget hotel located in the heart of Kandahar. The hotel has clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk.
Kandahar International Hotel: This is another budget hotel located in the center of Kandahar. The hotel has simple and clean rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk.
Kandahar Inn: This is a budget hotel located near the Kandahar airport. The hotel has clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk.
Rangina Hotel: This is a budget hotel located in the center of Kandahar. The hotel has simple and clean rooms with basic amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with local authorities and trusted sources for up-to-date information on safety and security before booking any accommodation.
Travel Tips Kandahar
If you are planning to travel to Kandahar, here are some travel tips that can help make your trip safe and enjoyable:
Research the security situation: The security situation in Kandahar can be volatile and can change rapidly. It’s important to research the security situation in the city and the surrounding areas before you travel. Check with your embassy or consulate and other reliable sources for up-to-date information.
Dress conservatively: Kandahar is a conservative city, so it’s important to dress conservatively when you are out in public. Women should cover their hair and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts.
Respect local customs and traditions: Kandahar is a traditional and conservative city, so it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Be aware of local customs and follow them. For example, don’t take photographs of people without their permission, especially women.
Avoid public demonstrations: Political demonstrations can occur in Kandahar, and they can sometimes turn violent. It’s best to avoid public demonstrations and large gatherings.
Carry identification: Carry your identification with you at all times, and keep a copy of your passport and visa in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to carry a local phone number for emergency contacts.
Use caution when driving: If you plan to drive in Kandahar, be aware that the roads can be crowded and chaotic. Drive defensively and be alert for pedestrians and other drivers.
Follow food and water safety guidelines: Kandahar has limited food safety regulations, so it’s important to follow food and water safety guidelines. Drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating food from street vendors unless it’s cooked fresh in front of you.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kandahar.