bigtravelbuzzMazar-i-Sharif is a city in the north of Afghanistan, which is known for its historic and religious significance. The city is the capital of Balkh Province and is considered the fourth-largest city in Afghanistan. It is also known as the “Tomb of the Saint,” as it is the location of the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, and one of the holiest places for Muslims. Mazar-i-Sharif is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Afghanistan, and there are several things to see and do in the city.
Here are some of the places to visit and things to do in Mazar-i-Sharif:
Shrine of Hazrat Ali: This is one of the most significant religious sites in Afghanistan, located in the center of the city. The shrine is known for its stunning blue-tiled architecture and attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the world.
Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mazar-i-Sharif, known for its blue-tiled domes and minarets. It was originally built in the 15th century and underwent major renovations in the 20th century.
Balkh Heritage Site: The Balkh Heritage Site is located just outside Mazar-i-Sharif and is an ancient city that dates back to the 3rd century BC. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to several ancient ruins and monuments.
Gawhar Shad Madrasa and Mosque: This 15th-century Islamic school and mosque is another popular attraction in Mazar-i-Sharif, known for its intricate tile work and beautiful architecture.
Friday Mosque: Also known as the Hazrat-i-Sultan Mosque, the Friday Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Afghanistan, dating back to the 9th century.
Masjid-e-Hazrat Imam Ali: This mosque is located just outside the city and is another significant religious site. It is known for its large white dome and is also the location of an important Sufi shrine.
Qargha Lake: If you’re looking for a relaxing escape from the city, Qargha Lake is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and swimming. It is located about 10 km from the city center and is surrounded by scenic mountains.
Chicken Street: This bustling market street is a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional Afghan handicrafts. It is known for its lively atmosphere and colorful stalls.
Mazar-i-Sharif Bazaar: The bazaar in Mazar-i-Sharif is another great place to shop for local goods, including spices, textiles, and jewelry. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Abdul Rahman Mosque: This is another beautiful mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif, known for its intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere. It is named after the former president of Afghanistan, who was assassinated in 2011.
These are just some of the places to visit and things to do in Mazar-i-Sharif. The city has a rich cultural and historical heritage and is worth exploring for anyone interested in Afghan history and culture.
Best Time To Visit Mazar-i-Sharif
The best time to visit Mazar-i-Sharif is during the spring season (March to May) and autumn season (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the city experiences less rainfall. The average temperature during these seasons is around 20-25°C (68-77°F), which is comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The summer season (June to August) can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). The winter season (December to February) can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing point. While some travelers may enjoy the snow-capped mountains and winter activities during this season, others may find the cold weather unbearable. It is advisable to avoid visiting Mazar-i-Sharif during extreme weather conditions.
How to get around in Mazar-i-Sharif
There are several ways to get around in Mazar-i-Sharif:
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Mazar-i-Sharif and are a convenient way to get around the city. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi.
Buses: Local buses are available, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. However, they are a cheaper option compared to taxis.
Walking: Mazar-i-Sharif is a relatively small city, and walking is a great way to explore the city center.
Bicycle: Some hotels and guesthouses offer bicycle rentals, and cycling is a great way to explore the city at your own pace.
Car rental: Car rental services are available in Mazar-i-Sharif, but they can be expensive. It is advisable to hire a driver along with the car for safety reasons.
Where to eat in Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif offers a variety of dining options, ranging from local Afghan cuisine to international dishes. Here are some popular places to eat in Mazar-i-Sharif:
Afghan House Restaurant: This restaurant offers authentic Afghan cuisine and is known for its delicious kabobs.
Blue Diamond Restaurant: This restaurant serves a mix of Afghan and international dishes and has a cozy atmosphere.
Nazir Kabob House: This restaurant specializes in kabobs and offers a range of meat options.
Pamir Restaurant: This restaurant offers a mix of Afghan and Persian cuisine and is known for its delicious kebabs.
The Lemon Tree: This restaurant offers a mix of Western and Afghan cuisine, and is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch.
Arabian Nights Restaurant: This restaurant offers a mix of Middle Eastern and Afghan cuisine and has a cozy atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Mazar-i-Sharif, and there are plenty of street vendors and local cafes that offer delicious food at affordable prices.
Famous street stalls in Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif is known for its delicious street food, and there are many street stalls throughout the city that offer a range of tasty treats. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Mazar-i-Sharif:
Bolani stall: Bolani is a type of stuffed flatbread that is a popular street food in Afghanistan. The Bolani stall in Mazar-i-Sharif is known for its delicious and crispy bolanis filled with potatoes, spinach, or pumpkin.
Kebab stall: Kebabs are a staple of Afghan cuisine, and there are many street stalls throughout Mazar-i-Sharif that offer delicious grilled meat skewers. Look for stalls serving chapli kebabs, made with ground beef and spices, or tandoori kebabs, marinated in yogurt and spices.
Samosa stall: Samosas are a popular snack in Afghanistan, and the samosa stall in Mazar-i-Sharif is known for its crispy, savory samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
Jalebi stall: Jalebi is a sweet, crispy fried dessert that is popular throughout South Asia. The jalebi stall in Mazar-i-Sharif is known for its delicious, syrupy jalebis that are perfect for a sweet snack.
Ashak stall: Ashak is a type of dumpling that is filled with leeks and served with yogurt and tomato sauce. The ashak stall in Mazar-i-Sharif is known for its flavorful and fresh ashak, made with locally sourced ingredients.
These are just a few of the many street stalls in Mazar-i-Sharif that offer delicious and affordable food. Be sure to explore the city and try as many different stalls as possible to get a taste of the local cuisine.
Where to stay in Mazar-i-Sharif
Luxury accommodation
Mazar-i-Sharif has a range of luxury accommodations for visitors, including international hotel chains and local luxury hotels. Here are some options:
Balkh Legends Hotel: This five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. It is located in the heart of Mazar-i-Sharif and offers easy access to popular attractions.
Safi Landmark Hotel: This five-star hotel features elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. It is located in a prime location and offers easy access to the city’s famous Blue Mosque.
Serena Hotel Mazar-i-Sharif: This luxury hotel is located in a serene location and offers elegant rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. It is also within walking distance of the city’s popular attractions.
Millennium Hotel: This four-star hotel offers modern rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center. It is located near the city’s major landmarks and offers a comfortable stay for visitors.
Marco Polo Hotel: This four-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center. It is located in the city center and offers easy access to popular attractions.
These luxury hotels in Mazar-i-Sharif offer world-class facilities and services for visitors looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Where to stay in Mazar-i-Sharif
Budget accommodation
There are a variety of budget accommodation options in Mazar-i-Sharif for travelers who are looking for affordable places to stay. Here are a few suggestions:
Khwaja Ghulam Hotel: This hotel is located near the famous Blue Mosque and offers basic, clean rooms at a reasonable price.
Balkh Heritage Hotel: This hotel is located in the historic city of Balkh, just a short drive from Mazar-i-Sharif. It offers simple rooms with shared bathrooms and a friendly atmosphere.
Pamir Hotel: This hotel is centrally located in Mazar-i-Sharif and offers clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities.
Mashad Hotel: This hotel is located near the city center and offers simple, affordable rooms with shared bathrooms.
Mustafa Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Mazar-i-Sharif and offers basic, no-frills rooms at an affordable price.
It’s important to note that some of these budget accommodations may not have all the amenities and services of luxury hotels, so be sure to check the reviews and do your research before booking.
Travel Tips Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif is a popular tourist destination in Afghanistan, known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful landmarks. Here are some travel tips to help you plan your trip to Mazar-i-Sharif:
Visa Requirements: Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Afghanistan. Check with your embassy or consulate for visa requirements and ensure that you have the appropriate documentation before traveling.
Safety: Afghanistan has experienced security challenges over the years. It is important to stay informed of the current situation in the country and exercise caution at all times. Avoid traveling to remote areas and stay away from any large gatherings or protests.
Accommodation: Mazar-i-Sharif offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel season.
Local Currency: The Afghan afghani is the local currency. It is recommended to exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices, as exchanging money on the street can be risky.
Local Customs: Afghan culture is conservative, and visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Women should wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs, and a headscarf is recommended. It is also important to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a mosque.
Transportation: Taxis and buses are the primary modes of transportation in Mazar-i-Sharif. It is recommended to use only authorized taxis and to negotiate the fare before getting in.
Sightseeing: Mazar-i-Sharif is home to several landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, the Balkh ruins, and the Mazar-i-Sharif Citadel. It is recommended to hire a local guide or join a guided tour to explore the city and its surroundings.
Food and Drink: Afghan cuisine is delicious and unique, with influences from Persian and Central Asian cooking. Popular dishes include kebabs, pilaf, and mantu. It is recommended to drink only bottled water and avoid street food to prevent getting sick.
Language: The official languages of Afghanistan are Pashto and Dari. It is recommended to learn a few basic phrases in either language to help with communication.
Respect: Finally, it is important to show respect for the local people and their customs. Engage with locals, ask questions, and be open-minded to gain a deeper appreciation of Afghan culture and history.