bigtravelbuzzKunar is a province in eastern Afghanistan, located on the border with Pakistan. It is known for its natural beauty and scenic landscape, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some places to visit and things to do in Kunar:
Asadabad: Asadabad is the capital of Kunar province and is known for its stunning mountain views and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the city’s bazaars and markets, as well as its historic fortresses and monuments.
Pech Valley: The Pech Valley is located in the eastern part of Kunar province and is known for its rugged terrain and stunning mountain scenery. It is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, as well as for camping and outdoor adventures.
Watapur District: Watapur District is home to a number of historic sites and landmarks, including the Watapur Tower, an ancient fortress dating back to the 3rd century BC. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and towns, which are known for their traditional architecture and handicrafts.
Kunar River: The Kunar River is one of the major rivers in Afghanistan and is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and rafting. Visitors can take a guided rafting tour or simply relax by the river and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Kandolus: Kandolus is a small village located in the hills of Kunar province and is known for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore the village’s traditional architecture and enjoy the local cuisine, which is known for its hearty stews and soups.
Gorgora Rock: The Gorgora Rock is a historic rock carving located in the Pech Valley, depicting the Buddha and other religious figures. It is believed to date back to the 6th century and is a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient history and culture.
Kunar Valley: The Kunar Valley is a picturesque valley located in the heart of Kunar province and is known for its stunning natural beauty and scenic landscape. Visitors can hike and trek through the valley, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Overall, Kunar province is a fascinating destination for visitors looking to explore Afghanistan’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Best Time To Visit Kunar
The best time to visit Kunar is during the summer months from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and hiking. The spring months of March to May are also a good time to visit as the weather is mild, and the landscapes are covered in lush greenery. However, during the winter months from December to February, the temperatures can drop to freezing levels, making it difficult to travel around the region. It is advisable to check the weather conditions before planning a trip to Kunar.
How to get around in Kunar
The best way to get around in Kunar is by hiring a private car or a taxi. You can also take public transport like buses and shared taxis, but they may not always be reliable and may have limited routes. It’s advisable to arrange transport in advance through a reputable travel agency or hotel.
If you are planning to visit remote areas, it’s best to hire a local guide who knows the area well and can help with translation if needed. Keep in mind that road conditions can be challenging in some parts of Kunar, so it’s important to be prepared for long and bumpy journeys.
If you are traveling within a town or city, you can use local transport like rickshaws or hired motorbikes. However, it’s important to wear a helmet and ensure that the vehicle is in good condition before you start your journey.
Where to eat in Kunar
Kunar is a region in Afghanistan that is known for its local cuisine. There are several small restaurants and cafes in the main towns and cities of Kunar where you can enjoy traditional Afghan dishes.
Some popular local dishes to try in Kunar include Kabuli pulao, a rice dish with lamb or chicken, and mantu, which are steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions. Other popular dishes include kebabs, qorma (a meat and vegetable stew), and ashak (dumplings filled with leeks and served with yogurt and tomato sauce).
Some popular places to eat in Kunar include the Red Apple Restaurant in Asadabad, the Kabul Restaurant in Asmar, and the Azadi Restaurant in Narang. It’s also worth trying out the street food stalls in the local markets, where you can find a variety of snacks and sweets like jalebi and gulab jamun.
Famous street stalls in Kunar
Kunar is known for its vibrant street food scene, with many small food stalls and vendors selling a variety of local specialties. Here are some famous street stalls in Kunar:
Chapli Kabab stall in Asadabad: This small stall is known for its delicious Chapli Kabab, a popular dish made from ground beef or lamb mixed with a variety of spices and fried in oil. It is often served with naan bread and a variety of chutneys.
Samosa stall in Narang: This popular stall in Narang serves freshly made samosas filled with a variety of savory fillings like potatoes, peas, and minced meat. They are often served with a spicy chutney or yogurt dip.
Jalebi stall in Asmar: This small stall is known for its sweet and crispy jalebis, which are made from a batter of flour and sugar syrup and deep-fried until golden brown. They are often served hot and drizzled with syrup.
Kulfi stall in Watapur: This small stall serves homemade kulfi, a type of traditional Indian ice cream that is made with condensed milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom or saffron. It is often served in small earthen pots or cones.
Tea stall in Sarkano: This small tea stall serves hot and refreshing cups of chai, a popular beverage in Afghanistan. The tea is often brewed with milk and a variety of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. It is often served with biscuits or small snacks like pakoras or samosas.
Where to stay in Kunar
Luxury accommodation
There are limited options for luxury accommodations in Kunar, but some of the best places to consider include:
Asmar Guest House: Located in the Asmar district, Asmar Guest House offers comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Dewana Hotel: Dewana Hotel is a small but comfortable hotel in the heart of Asadabad that offers basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air conditioning.
Naray Guest House: Naray Guest House is a budget hotel located in the heart of Naray district. It offers basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Marwarid Guest House: Marwarid Guest House is located in the heart of Asadabad and offers comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Tariq Hotel: Tariq Hotel is a budget hotel located in Asadabad that offers basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air conditioning.
It’s worth noting that Kunar is a remote and relatively underdeveloped province, so luxury accommodations may not be available in some areas.
Where to stay in Kunar
Budget accommodation
There are several options for budget accommodations in Kunar. Here are some of the best places to consider:
Kunar Guest House: Kunar Guest House is a budget hotel located in the heart of Asadabad that offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Tariq Hotel: Tariq Hotel is another budget hotel located in Asadabad that offers basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air conditioning.
Naray Guest House: Naray Guest House is a budget hotel located in the heart of Naray district. It offers basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Lalander Hotel: Lalander Hotel is located in the center of Asadabad and offers budget-friendly rooms with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Uzbin Guest House: Uzbin Guest House is located in the Asmar district and offers budget-friendly rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms.
Keep in mind that budget accommodations in Kunar may not have the same level of amenities as luxury accommodations, so it’s important to manage your expectations accordingly.
Travel Tips Kunar
Here are some travel tips for Kunar:
Respect local customs: Kunar is an Islamic region, so it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly. Women should consider wearing a headscarf when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
Plan your trip carefully: Kunar is a remote and mountainous region, so it’s important to plan your trip carefully. Check the weather and road conditions before you go, and make sure you have appropriate clothing and gear.
Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide is a good idea if you want to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. A guide can help you navigate the local terrain, find the best spots for hiking and sightseeing, and provide insights into local culture and customs.
Learn some basic phrases: Learning some basic phrases in Dari or Pashto can be helpful, as many locals in Kunar do not speak English. Even a few simple phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “how much?” can go a long way in making connections with the local people.
Respect the environment: Kunar is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, so it’s important to respect the environment and not disturb local ecosystems. Stay on designated trails, avoid littering, and do not disturb wildlife.
Be prepared for limited amenities: Kunar is a remote and rugged region, so it’s important to be prepared for limited amenities. Accommodations and restaurants may be basic, so be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water with you, especially if you’re planning to hike or explore the region’s natural beauty.