bigtravelbuzzNangarhar is a province located in eastern Afghanistan, bordering Pakistan. It is a historically significant region, as it was a major center of the ancient Indian kingdom of Gandhara and has been an important trading and transit hub for centuries. Today, Nangarhar is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, and others.
Places to Visit in Nangarhar
Here are some places to visit:
Jalalabad: The provincial capital of Nangarhar, Jalalabad is a bustling city with a rich history and vibrant culture. It is home to several historic sites, including the Mausoleum of King Amanullah Khan, the Darul Aman Palace, and the ancient city of Adinapur.
Tora Bora: A series of caves and tunnels located in the Spin Ghar mountains, Tora Bora is a significant historical site that was famously used as a hiding place by Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.
Hadda Archaeological Complex: Located near Jalalabad, the Hadda Archaeological Complex is a collection of ancient Buddhist monasteries and stupas that date back to the 1st century CE.
Kama District: Located in the western part of Nangarhar, Kama District is a scenic area that is known for its beautiful orchards and vineyards.
Best Time To Visit Nangarhar
The best time to visit Nangarhar is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and little rainfall. During these months, visitors can enjoy exploring the outdoor attractions without being affected by extreme heat or cold. However, it’s important to note that the security situation in the region can be volatile, so travelers should always check the latest travel advisories and take necessary precautions.
Things to Do in Nangarhar
Nangarhar is a province located in eastern Afghanistan, and it offers a variety of things to do for visitors. Here are some suggestions:
Visit the Tora Bora caves: These caves are located in the Spin Ghar Mountains, and they were used as hiding places for the Taliban and Al-Qaeda leaders. They are now open to the public, and you can explore them with a guide.
Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Jalalabad: Jalalabad was an important city during the Kushan Empire, and it was also a stop on the Silk Road. Today, you can visit the ruins of the city, which include the remains of a fortress, a Buddhist stupa, and a temple.
Take a stroll in the Darunta Dam park: This park is located near the Darunta Dam, and it offers a peaceful atmosphere for a picnic or a walk. You can also rent a boat and paddle around the dam.
Visit the Gandhara art museum: This museum is located in the city of Jalalabad, and it houses a collection of Buddhist art from the Gandhara period. The exhibits include sculptures, coins, and other artifacts.
Explore the markets: The city of Jalalabad has several markets where you can buy local crafts, spices, and other goods. The Karkhano market is particularly famous for its carpets and textiles.
Enjoy the natural beauty: Nangarhar is home to several natural attractions, such as the Spin Ghar Mountains, the Khyber Pass, and the Tora Bora valley. You can take a hike, a drive, or a picnic in one of these locations and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Visit the Nangarhar University: This university is located in the city of Jalalabad, and it is one of the largest universities in Afghanistan. You can visit the campus and learn about the education system in the country.
Attend a cultural event: Nangarhar has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several festivals and events throughout the year. The Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are two of the most important Islamic festivals, and they are celebrated with great enthusiasm in the province.
These are just a few suggestions for things to do in Nangarhar. As always, be sure to check the current security situation before making any travel plans.
How to get around in Nangarhar
Nangarhar is a province in Afghanistan with a well-developed road network, so the best way to get around is by car or taxi. There are car rental services available, but it’s recommended to hire a local driver who is familiar with the area and road conditions. Public transportation options such as buses and shared taxis are also available and can be more affordable but less comfortable and reliable. For short distances within cities, you can hire a bicycle or a motorbike. However, it’s important to exercise caution when driving or riding as roads in Afghanistan can be unpredictable and hazardous.
Where to eat in Nangarhar
Nangarhar has a variety of options for dining, ranging from traditional Afghan cuisine to international fast food chains. Some popular places to eat in Nangarhar include:
Kunduz Restaurant: A popular restaurant serving traditional Afghan dishes such as kebabs, rice dishes, and stews.
Pizza Hut: An international fast food chain serving a variety of pizza flavors, pasta, and side dishes.
Shar-e-Naw Park Restaurant: A local restaurant in the center of Jalalabad city serving Afghan and Pakistani cuisine.
Subway: Another international fast food chain serving submarine sandwiches, salads, and other fast food items.
Chicken Hut: A popular fast food chain serving fried chicken and other fast food items.
Kabul Restaurant: A traditional Afghan restaurant serving a range of dishes including kebabs, stews, and rice dishes.
Green Village Restaurant: A local restaurant serving traditional Afghan dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
Coffee Shops: There are several coffee shops in Jalalabad city where you can enjoy a variety of coffee, tea, and snacks.
It’s worth noting that alcohol is strictly prohibited in Afghanistan, so you won’t find any bars or pubs serving alcohol.
Famous street stalls in Nangarhar
Nangarhar has a vibrant street food scene, with many popular street stalls and food carts offering delicious Afghan and Pakistani cuisine. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Nangarhar:
Chapli kebab stall: This street stall is famous for its delicious chapli kebabs, a traditional Pashtun dish made with ground beef or mutton, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices.
Samosa stall: You can find many samosa stalls in Nangarhar that serve crispy and savory samosas filled with potatoes, minced meat, or vegetables.
Kabuli pulao stall: Kabuli pulao is a signature dish of Afghanistan, and you can find many street stalls in Nangarhar serving this delicious rice dish with tender lamb or chicken and topped with raisins, carrots, and nuts.
Jalebi stall: If you have a sweet tooth, head to a jalebi stall in Nangarhar. Jalebi is a popular sweet treat in South Asia, made by deep-frying a wheat flour batter in pretzel or circular shapes and then soaking them in sugar syrup.
Lassi stall: To beat the heat, try a refreshing glass of lassi, a traditional yogurt-based drink that is served chilled. You can find many street stalls in Nangarhar that serve lassi with various flavors, such as mango, strawberry, or plain.
Where to stay in Nangarhar
Luxury accommodation
Nangarhar province in Afghanistan has limited options for luxury accommodation. However, there are a few high-end hotels and resorts that you can consider for a comfortable stay. Here are some options:
Spinzar Hotel Jalalabad: This is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Jalalabad, the capital city of Nangarhar. It offers modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, fitness center, and spa.
Sarina Hotel Nangarhar: This is another 5-star hotel in Jalalabad that provides luxurious accommodation with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, restaurant, fitness center, and business center.
Badam Bagh Resort: This is a luxury resort located in the scenic Kabul River Valley, just outside of Jalalabad. It offers guests a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature while still enjoying modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.
Crown Hotel Jalalabad: This is a 4-star hotel located in the city center of Jalalabad. It offers comfortable accommodation with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, restaurant, and room service.
Continental Hotel Jalalabad: This is another 4-star hotel located in the heart of Jalalabad. It offers modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, restaurant, fitness center, and room service.
It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance and check the security situation in the area before traveling to Nangarhar province.
Where to stay in Nangarhar
Budget accommodation
There are a few options for budget accommodation in Nangarhar, including guesthouses and budget hotels. Some popular options include:
Ariana Guest House: This guesthouse offers affordable rooms in a central location in Jalalabad, the capital of Nangarhar. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Nangarhar Hotel: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Jalalabad and offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Spogmai Hotel: This budget hotel is located in the city of Behsud, just outside of Jalalabad, and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Meezan Guest House: This guesthouse is located in the city of Khogyani, about 40 kilometers from Jalalabad, and offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Wahdat Guest House: This guesthouse is located in the city of Surkhrod, about 25 kilometers from Jalalabad, and offers affordable rooms in a peaceful and quiet location.
It’s important to note that some areas of Nangarhar province may not be safe for tourists, so it’s important to check the latest travel advisories and take appropriate safety precautions.
Travel Tips Nangarhar
here are some travel tips for Nangarhar:
Be aware of the security situation: Nangarhar can be a volatile area due to ongoing conflict, so it is important to stay up to date on the security situation and follow local news and advice from authorities.
Dress appropriately: As a conservative region, it is important to dress modestly when visiting Nangarhar, especially if you are a woman. Wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover your arms and legs is recommended.
Respect local customs: Afghan culture values hospitality and respect, so it is important to show respect for local customs and traditions. For example, removing your shoes before entering someone’s home is a common practice.
Bring cash: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Nangarhar, so it is important to bring enough cash with you for your trip. ATMs may also be difficult to find, so plan accordingly.
Hire a local guide: It is recommended to hire a local guide when exploring Nangarhar, as they can provide valuable insight into the area’s history, culture, and customs. They can also help you navigate the region safely.
Be cautious when taking photos: It is important to ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites in Nangarhar. Some locals may not want their photos taken, and taking photos of sensitive areas can be seen as disrespectful.
Be prepared for the weather: Nangarhar has a hot and arid climate, so it is important to bring appropriate clothing and stay hydrated. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended.
Learn some basic phrases in Pashto: Pashto is the main language spoken in Nangarhar, so learning some basic phrases can help you communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.