bigtravelbuzzNili is the capital of the Daikundi province in Afghanistan. It is a small city with a population of around 50,000 people. Here are some things to know and tips for visiting Nili:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nili is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and there is less chance of rain or snow.
Transportation: The most common way to reach Nili is by road. You can hire a car or take a shared taxi from Kabul or other nearby cities. There is also a small airport in Nili, but flights are infrequent and subject to weather conditions.
Places to visit: Nili is a small city, and there are not many tourist attractions. However, you can visit the local bazaar, the Daikundi Museum, and the historic Naw Bahar Fort. The city is also surrounded by scenic mountains and valleys, which are popular with hikers and adventure seekers.
Accommodation: There are a few hotels and guesthouses in Nili, ranging from budget to mid-range. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Local customs and traditions: Daikundi province is home to several ethnic groups, including Hazaras, Pashtuns, and Tajiks. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions and dress modestly. It is also recommended to ask for permission before taking photographs of people.
Safety: Nili is generally considered safe for travelers, but it is recommended to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Avoid traveling alone at night and always carry identification with you.
Medical facilities: Nili has a small hospital and several clinics, but medical facilities are limited. It is recommended to carry a basic first-aid kit with you and to bring any necessary prescription medications.
Food: Nili has a few local restaurants and tea houses where you can try traditional Afghan cuisine. It is recommended to stick to cooked food and to avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water and soft drinks are widely available.
Places to Visit in Nili
Nili is a small city, and there are not many tourist attractions. However, here are some places that you can visit during your trip to Nili:
Daikundi Museum: The Daikundi Museum is a small museum located in Nili that showcases the history and culture of the Daikundi province. The museum has a collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, coins, and traditional costumes.
Naw Bahar Fort: Naw Bahar Fort is a historic fort located on a hilltop overlooking Nili. The fort dates back to the 18th century and was built by local rulers to protect the city from invaders.
Trekking and hiking: Nili is surrounded by scenic mountains and valleys, which are popular with hikers and adventure seekers. You can hire a local guide and trek to the nearby Shah Foladi Lake or the Gholghola Valley.
Bazaar: The local bazaar in Nili is a bustling market where you can buy traditional handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. The bazaar is especially lively on Fridays, which is the weekly market day.
Mosques: Nili has several historic mosques, including the Jamia Mosque and the Mulla Abdullah Mosque. These mosques showcase the rich architectural heritage of the region.
Lake Band-i-Ameer: Although located about 230 km away from Nili, Lake Band-i-Ameer is a beautiful natural attraction worth visiting. It is a natural lake located in the Bamyan province, surrounded by stunning mountains and picturesque scenery.
Note: Since Nili is a remote and less visited area, it is recommended to inquire about the safety situation with local authorities or trusted sources before planning a trip to these places.
Best Time To Visit Nili
The best time to visit Nili is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and dry. During this time, the temperature ranges between 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
However, it’s important to note that Nili is located in a high altitude region, which means that the temperature can drop significantly at night, even during the summer months. Therefore, it’s recommended to bring warm clothes if you plan to visit during this time.
The winter months of December to February should be avoided as the temperatures can drop to freezing levels, and the roads leading to Nili may be blocked due to heavy snowfall. Additionally, the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November can be unpredictable with occasional rain, and the roads may be difficult to navigate due to mudslides.
Things to Do in Nili
Nili is a small town located in the mountainous region of Afghanistan, offering a range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Here are some things to do in Nili:
Trekking and Hiking: Nili is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, making it an ideal location for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. The Nili-Ghazni Trek, which takes about 6 to 7 days, is a popular trekking route that offers stunning views of the mountainous landscape.
Visit the Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque, also known as Masjid-i Biruni, is a historic mosque located in Nili. The mosque was built during the 11th century and is known for its intricate blue-tiled walls and domed architecture.
Explore the Bazaar: The Bazaar of Nili is a bustling market filled with local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and local produce. It’s a great place to wander around and soak up the local culture.
Visit the Khandud Cave: Khandud Cave is a natural cave located just outside Nili, and is said to have been the home of a legendary warrior named Khandud. The cave is filled with stalactites and stalagmites and offers an interesting geological experience.
Attend a Local Festival: Nili is known for its vibrant local festivals that showcase the region’s culture and traditions. The Nawroz Festival, which marks the Afghan New Year in March, is a particularly popular festival with locals.
Visit the Nili Museum: The Nili Museum is a small but informative museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. It’s a great place to learn more about the local traditions and way of life.
How to get around in Nili
Nili is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to travel further afield, there are several options for transportation:
Taxis: Taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Nili. You can find them at the local bazaar or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. Negotiate the fare before you start your journey.
Private Car: You can also hire a private car with a driver for a day or longer. This option is more expensive than taxis but offers greater flexibility in terms of where you want to go and when.
Walking: As Nili is a small town, walking is a great way to explore the area and get to know the locals. It’s also a good way to appreciate the stunning mountain scenery.
Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike from local rental shops in Nili. This is a fun way to explore the surrounding areas, but it’s important to be cautious as the roads can be narrow and steep.
It’s important to note that roads in Nili can be in poor condition, especially during the winter months, so it’s best to check with locals or your hotel about the conditions before setting out on any journeys.
Where to eat in Nili
Nili is a small town, and there are not many options for eating out. However, there are a few local restaurants and eateries where you can sample the local cuisine:
Nan Bakery: This is a popular spot for breakfast in Nili. You can find freshly baked bread, pastries, and other baked goods here.
Quroqul: This is a traditional Afghan dish made with yogurt, herbs, and meat. You can find Quroqul at several local restaurants in Nili.
Local Bazaar: The local bazaar is a great place to try out street food in Nili. Here you can find a variety of dishes including kebabs, samosas, and other snacks.
Your Hotel: Most hotels in Nili offer in-house restaurants where you can try out local dishes as well as international cuisine.
It’s worth noting that alcohol is not served in public places in Afghanistan, so you won’t find any bars or pubs in Nili.
Famous street stalls in Nili
As Nili is a small town, there are not many street food stalls in the traditional sense. However, the local bazaar is a great place to sample a variety of local snacks and dishes, including kebabs, samosas, and other snacks. You can also try out fresh fruits and nuts, as well as various types of bread, including the popular Afghan bread, naan. Some local vendors also sell sweet treats such as halva and baklava. The best time to visit the bazaar is in the morning when it’s bustling with activity and the vendors have just set up their stalls. Just be prepared for some crowds and haggling over prices!
Where to stay in Nili
Luxury accommodation
As Nili is a small town, there are no luxury accommodations available. Most of the hotels in Nili are budget-friendly guesthouses or small inns. However, some of the best options for accommodation in Nili include:
Dostum Guest House: This guest house is one of the most popular options for visitors to Nili. It offers clean, comfortable rooms and basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and hot water.
Azim Hotel: Another popular option for visitors to Nili, the Azim Hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, basic amenities, and a central location in the town.
Panjshir Guest House: This guest house is located just outside of Nili and offers clean, comfortable rooms and basic amenities. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a more peaceful and quiet place to stay.
It’s worth noting that the accommodations in Nili are basic, but they are clean and comfortable, and the local hospitality is warm and welcoming.
Where to stay in Nili
Budget accommodation
There are several budget-friendly accommodation options in Nili. Some of the best budget accommodations in Nili include:
New Haji Hotel: This hotel is located in the center of Nili and offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and hot water.
Kamran Hotel: This hotel is located on the outskirts of Nili and offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and hot water. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a quieter place to stay.
Mawj Hotel: This hotel is located in the center of Nili and offers clean and basic rooms with shared bathrooms. It’s a good option if you’re traveling on a tight budget.
Amiri Guest House: This guest house is located in the center of Nili and offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and hot water.
Overall, the budget accommodations in Nili are basic but clean and comfortable, and they provide a good option for travelers who are looking for an affordable place to stay.
Travel Tips Nili
Here are some travel tips for Nili:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nili is from May to October, when the weather is mild and dry.
Transportation: The easiest way to get to Nili is by road. There are regular buses that run between Nili and Kabul, as well as other cities in Afghanistan. You can also hire a car or take a taxi.
Safety: As with all travel in Afghanistan, it’s important to take extra precautions when traveling in Nili. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.
Language: The official language of Nili is Dari, but many locals also speak Pashto. English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn some basic phrases in Dari or Pashto.
Currency: The currency in Nili is the Afghan Afghani. It’s best to bring cash with you, as credit cards are not widely accepted.
Accommodation: There are several budget-friendly accommodation options in Nili. It’s a good idea to book in advance, as rooms can fill up quickly during peak season.
Food: The food in Nili is similar to other parts of Afghanistan, with a focus on rice, meat, and vegetables. There are several restaurants and street vendors that serve traditional Afghan dishes.
Dress code: Afghanistan is a conservative country, and it’s important to dress modestly. Women should wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs, and a headscarf is recommended. Men should avoid wearing shorts and tank tops.
Culture: Afghan culture is rich and diverse, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. It’s a good idea to learn about the local culture before you travel to Nili.
Local customs: When visiting local homes or businesses, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering. It’s also considered impolite to eat or drink with your left hand, as this hand is traditionally used for cleaning.