Nimruz is a province in southwestern Afghanistan, bordered by Iran to the west and Pakistan to the south and east. It is the most sparsely populated province in Afghanistan, but it is also one of the most scenic and historic regions in the country. Some of the popular places to visit in Nimruz include the following:
Zaranj: Zaranj is the provincial capital of Nimruz and is a historic city that has been inhabited for centuries. It is home to several historic sites and monuments, including a number of shrines, tombs, and ancient forts.
Khash Rod District: Khash Rod is a district in Nimruz that is known for its scenic beauty and historic landmarks. It is home to several ancient forts and ruins, as well as a number of natural hot springs.
Delaram: Delaram is a town in Nimruz that is known for its strategic location on the major highway that connects Nimruz to the rest of the country. It is also home to several historic landmarks, including an ancient fort and a number of shrines.
Chakhansur: Chakhansur is a district in Nimruz that is located near the Iranian border. It is known for its beautiful desert landscapes and is a popular destination for camel treks and other desert adventures.
Zaranj Airport: Zaranj Airport is the only airport in Nimruz and is served by several domestic airlines. It is a small airport that is located just outside of Zaranj, the provincial capital.
Best Time To Visit Nimruz
The best time to visit Nimruz is during the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is cool and dry. During the summer months, temperatures can be very hot and humid, which can make travel uncomfortable. It is also important to note that Nimruz is a relatively remote and sparsely populated province, so travelers should take extra precautions when traveling here, especially if they plan to venture outside of the main towns and cities.
Things to Do in Nimruz
Nimruz is a province in southwestern Afghanistan known for its vast deserts, arid climate, and historical significance. Here are some of the things to do in Nimruz:
Visit the Zaranj City: Zaranj is the capital of Nimruz province, and it is known for its unique architecture, bustling bazaars, and historical sites. Some of the popular sites to visit in Zaranj include the Zaranj Castle, the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, and the Zaranj Museum.
Explore the Dasht-e-Margo Desert: Nimruz is home to the Dasht-e-Margo Desert, one of the largest deserts in the world. You can take a guided tour or rent a car to explore the desert and witness its unique flora and fauna.
Visit the Band-e-Amir National Park: Although the Band-e-Amir National Park is technically located in the nearby Bamyan province, it is a popular day-trip destination from Nimruz. The park is known for its breathtaking blue lakes, stunning waterfalls, and mountainous terrain.
Go on a camel ride: Nimruz’s deserts are perfect for camel rides. You can take a guided tour through the desert on a camel, witnessing the stunning sand dunes and other desert landscapes.
Attend a cultural festival: Nimruz is home to several cultural festivals that celebrate the province’s history and traditions. Some of the popular festivals include the Sistan-Balochistan Cultural Festival and the Chakhansur Cultural Festival.
Visit the Delaram-Zaranj Highway: The Delaram-Zaranj Highway is a major road that connects Afghanistan with Iran. The highway is known for its stunning landscapes and scenic views.
Explore the Nimruz Museum: The Nimruz Museum is located in Zaranj and is home to several artifacts that showcase the province’s history and culture. Some of the notable artifacts include ancient coins, pottery, and manuscripts.
Take a boat ride: The Helmand River flows through Nimruz, and you can take a boat ride to witness the stunning landscapes along the river.
Visit the Nimruz Wildlife Reserve: The Nimruz Wildlife Reserve is a protected area that is home to several endangered species of animals and plants. You can take a guided tour through the reserve to witness the unique flora and fauna of the province.
These are some of the things to do in Nimruz, but there are many more exciting activities and sights to see in the province.
How to get around in Nimruz
The transportation options in Nimruz may be limited compared to other parts of Afghanistan, but there are still a few ways to get around:
Private car or taxi: Hiring a private car or taxi is one of the most convenient ways to get around Nimruz, especially if you want to visit places outside the city.
Motorbike: Renting a motorbike can be a good option for short trips within the city, but it is not recommended for long journeys.
Public transport: Public transport is available in Nimruz, but it may not be very reliable or comfortable. Minibusses and shared taxis are common modes of public transport.
Walking: Walking is a good option if you want to explore the city and take in the local atmosphere.
It’s important to note that the security situation in Nimruz can be volatile, so it’s recommended to check with local authorities or travel agencies before planning any travel.
Where to eat in Nimruz
Nimruz is a province in Afghanistan that offers a variety of local cuisine. Here are some of the popular restaurants and eateries in Nimruz:
Afghan Jalebi: Located in Zaranj, this restaurant serves authentic Afghan cuisine with an outdoor seating area.
Bostan Kebab: Another popular restaurant in Zaranj that offers a range of kebabs and Afghan dishes.
Shaheen Cafe: This is a popular coffee shop in Zaranj that offers a variety of coffee and tea options along with snacks and light bites.
Fresh Bakers: Located in Delaram, Fresh Bakers is a bakery that offers freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes.
Kebabistan: This is a popular restaurant in Zaranj that serves a variety of kebabs and other grilled meat dishes.
Bolani House: Located in Zaranj, Bolani House is a small eatery that specializes in Afghan bolani, which is a stuffed flatbread that is served with chutney.
Bismillah Ice Cream: This is a popular ice cream shop in Zaranj that offers a variety of flavors.
Nimroz Restaurant: Located in Chahar Burjak, Nimroz Restaurant is a local eatery that serves Afghan cuisine, including kebabs and rice dishes.
Gul Tawa Restaurant: This is a small local restaurant in Zaranj that serves Afghan dishes like kebabs, rice, and curry.
Fish Restaurant: Located in Zaranj, Fish Restaurant is a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of fish dishes.
Note that Nimruz is a less-travelled destination, and visitors may have to rely on local recommendations or their accommodation providers for suggestions on where to eat.
Where to stay in Nimruz
Luxury accommodation
Nimruz is a relatively remote and sparsely populated province in southwestern Afghanistan. While there are limited options for luxury accommodation in Nimruz, there are a few hotels and guesthouses that offer comfortable and convenient places to stay. Some options to consider include:
Zaranj Guest House: Located in the provincial capital of Zaranj, this guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms. There is also an on-site restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Amu Hotel: Situated in the heart of Zaranj, this hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. There is also a rooftop terrace with great views of the city.
Afghan Guesthouse: Another option in Zaranj, this guesthouse offers budget-friendly rooms with basic amenities like fans and shared bathrooms. There is an on-site restaurant and the staff are friendly and helpful.
Delaram Hotel: Located in the town of Delaram near the Iranian border, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms. There is also a restaurant serving traditional Afghan food.
Keep in mind that security can be a concern in Nimruz, so it’s important to do your research and take appropriate precautions when traveling in the area.
Travel Tips Nimruz
Nimruz is a province in southwestern Afghanistan that is known for its rugged and remote landscapes. Here are some travel tips for visiting Nimruz:
Safety: Nimruz is located in a volatile region of Afghanistan and security concerns are always present. It is important to stay up-to-date on the security situation and to follow the guidance of local authorities and your embassy.
Visa: To enter Afghanistan, you will need a visa. You can apply for a visa at an Afghan embassy or consulate in your home country. It is recommended to obtain a visa before arrival.
Transportation: The main mode of transportation in Nimruz is by road. The roads can be rough and travel times can be long. It is recommended to travel with a reputable tour company or hire a reliable driver.
Accommodation: Nimruz is a remote province and accommodation options are limited. There are some basic guesthouses available in the main towns such as Zaranj and Delaram.
Weather: The climate in Nimruz is arid and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C in the summer months. It is recommended to travel in the cooler months from November to March.
Culture: Nimruz is a conservative province, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly. It is also important to be mindful of photography restrictions and to ask for permission before taking photos of people or sensitive locations.
Health: Medical facilities in Nimruz are basic, and it is recommended to carry a basic medical kit with you. Tap water is not safe to drink, and it is recommended to stick to bottled water and avoid raw fruits and vegetables.
Language: Dari and Pashto are the main languages spoken in Nimruz. Basic knowledge of these languages will be helpful in communicating with locals.