bigtravelbuzzMaidan Shar is the capital city of Maidan Wardak Province, located in central Afghanistan. The city is situated at an altitude of 2,428 feet (740 meters) and is about 35 miles (56 kilometers) west of Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan. Maidan Shar is a historical and cultural city with a number of important landmarks and tourist attractions.
Places to Visit in Maidan Shar
Maidan Shar is the capital of Wardak province in Afghanistan. It is a relatively small town and there are not many tourist attractions. However, there are a few places that you can visit during your stay:
Sultan Valley: Sultan Valley is a beautiful natural attraction located in Maidan Shar. It is surrounded by high mountains and lush greenery, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
Maidan Shar Bazaar: The Maidan Shar Bazaar is a bustling market where you can buy everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handicrafts and clothing. It is a great place to experience the local culture and do some shopping.
Qala-e-Kah district: Qala-e-Kah is a district in Maidan Shar that is home to several historic forts and ruins. The district is located about 40 kilometers from Maidan Shar and is accessible by car or bus.
Band-e-Amir National Park: Although Band-e-Amir National Park is not located in Maidan Shar, it is located nearby in the province of Bamyan. The park is home to six stunning blue lakes and is a popular tourist attraction in Afghanistan.
Pul-e-Alam: Pul-e-Alam is another city in the Wardak province, located about 40 kilometers from Maidan Shar. It is home to several historic monuments and forts, including the Pul-e-Alam Citadel and the Band-e Sardeh Dam.
Note: Due to security concerns, it is important to check the current situation and obtain the necessary permits and permissions before traveling to these places in Maidan Shar and surrounding areas.
Best Time To Visit Maidan Shar
The best time to visit Maidan Shar is during the spring season, from March to May, and during the fall season, from September to November. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer season from June to August can be extremely hot, while the winter season from December to February can be cold and snowy, so it’s best to avoid those times if possible.
Things to Do in Maidan Shar
Maidan Shar is the capital city of the Maidan Wardak province in Afghanistan. It is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Here are some things you can do while in Maidan Shar:
Visit the historical sites: Maidan Shar has many historical sites that are worth visiting. The most famous of these is the 12th-century Minaret of Jam, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other historical sites include the ancient fortresses of Maidan Shar, such as the Ghazni Fortress and the Maidan Shar Fortress.
Explore the natural beauty: Maidan Shar is located in a mountainous region, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can go hiking or trekking in the mountains to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Visit the local markets: Maidan Shar has many local markets where you can buy traditional Afghan crafts, including carpets, pottery, and textiles. You can also find fresh produce and other goods at these markets.
Try the local cuisine: Afghan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and spices. You can try traditional dishes such as kebabs, pilau, and qorma at local restaurants and cafes in Maidan Shar.
Attend cultural events: Maidan Shar is home to many cultural events throughout the year, including festivals and celebrations. You can attend these events to experience the local culture and traditions.
How to get around in Maidan Shar
Maidan Shar is a small city in Afghanistan, and transportation options may be limited. The best way to get around is by hiring a private car or taxi. Alternatively, you can use local buses or minibusses, but keep in mind that they may be crowded and uncomfortable. It’s recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver in advance. Walking is also a good option for short distances, and you can explore the city on foot. However, be sure to take necessary safety precautions as walking in some areas may not be safe due to the security situation.
Where to eat in Maidan Shar
Maidan Shar is the capital city of Wardak province in Afghanistan. Although it is not a very large city, there are still several restaurants and eateries where you can enjoy local cuisine as well as some international options. Here are a few options for dining in Maidan Shar:
Naweed Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant in Maidan Shar that serves traditional Afghan dishes such as qabili palaw, mantu, and kebab.
Star Cafe and Restaurant: This is another local restaurant that serves a variety of Afghan dishes as well as some international options such as pizza and burgers.
Zaky’s Restaurant: This is a casual restaurant that offers a variety of dishes including Afghan cuisine, sandwiches, and pizza.
Darbar-e-Kabab: This is a small, no-frills restaurant that offers traditional Afghan kebabs and other grilled meats.
Afghan Bistro: This is a cozy little restaurant that serves a range of Afghan dishes such as kebab, qorma, and biryani.
Please note that due to security concerns in the region, it is always best to check with local authorities before venturing out to any restaurant or eatery in Maidan Shar.
Where to stay in Maidan Shar
Maidan Shar is the capital city of Maidan Wardak Province in Afghanistan. The city has a few accommodation options for tourists to stay in. Here are some places to consider for your stay:
Arman Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers basic amenities like Wi-Fi, room service, and laundry facilities.
Safi Landmark Hotel: This is a 3-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms and suites, along with amenities like a fitness center, business center, and on-site restaurant.
Maidan Hotel: This hotel offers simple rooms with basic amenities like Wi-Fi and room service.
Rah-e-Farda Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in a quiet area of the city and offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
Aryubi Hotel: This hotel is located on the outskirts of the city and offers a peaceful atmosphere for guests. It has a restaurant and a conference room for business travelers.
These are some of the budget-friendly options for accommodation in Maidan Shar.
Travel Tips Maidan Shar
Maidan Shar is the capital city of Wardak province, located in central Afghanistan. Here are some travel tips for Maidan Shar:
Safety: As with traveling to any part of Afghanistan, it is important to be aware of the security situation in the region. Maidan Shar has experienced some violence in the past, so it is important to keep up-to-date on the latest travel advisories from your government.
Transportation: The easiest way to get to Maidan Shar is by car, either by renting your own or hiring a private driver. The roads in Afghanistan can be quite rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Language: Dari and Pashto are the main languages spoken in Maidan Shar, so it can be helpful to learn a few phrases before you go.
Dress: Afghanistan is a conservative country, so it is important to dress modestly. Women should wear long pants or skirts and cover their arms and heads.
Culture: Afghanistan has a rich cultural heritage, and it can be interesting to learn about the customs and traditions of the local people. However, it is important to be respectful of local traditions and customs, and to avoid behavior that could be seen as disrespectful.
Accommodation: There are several budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Maidan Shar, but luxury accommodation is not available in the city.
Food: Traditional Afghan food is hearty and flavorful, and can include dishes like kebabs, rice pilaf, and qorma. There are several local restaurants in Maidan Shar where you can try these dishes.
Currency: The official currency of Afghanistan is the Afghan afghani. It can be difficult to exchange foreign currency in Maidan Shar, so it is recommended to bring enough cash with you for your trip.
Health: It is important to take necessary health precautions when traveling to Afghanistan. Make sure you are up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and bring any necessary medication with you. It is also important to drink only bottled or boiled water.
Respect: The people of Afghanistan are known for their hospitality, and it is important to show respect and appreciation for their culture and traditions. Be polite and courteous to everyone you meet, and try to learn as much as you can about the local customs and traditions.