bigtravelbuzzQala-i-Naw is the capital city of Badghis Province in western Afghanistan. It is situated at an elevation of 909 meters above sea level and has a population of around 65,000 people. The city is surrounded by the Murghab River and is known for its fertile agricultural land, especially for growing cotton, wheat, and barley. The city also has a small airport that connects it to other cities in Afghanistan.
Some places to visit in Qala-i-Naw are:
Qala-i-Naw Park: This is a beautiful park located in the center of the city and is a popular spot for picnics and gatherings.
Murghab River: The river flows through the city and provides a scenic view for visitors.
Minaret of Jam: This is an ancient minaret located about 200 km from Qala-i-Naw and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Abu Muslim Khorasani Tomb: This is a historic tomb located in the city and is believed to be the resting place of Abu Muslim Khorasani, a famous military leader and governor during the Abbasid Caliphate.
Badghis Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Badghis Province.
Friday Mosque: This is a historic mosque located in the center of the city and is a popular place of worship for locals.
Bala Hissar Fort: This is an ancient fort located on a hill overlooking the city and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Qala-i-Naw Bazaar: This is a bustling market in the city where visitors can find a variety of local products and handicrafts.
Shahbaz Castle: This is an ancient castle located about 50 km from Qala-i-Naw and is a popular destination for tourists.
Best Time To Visit Qala i Naw
The best time to visit Qala-i-Naw is during the spring and autumn seasons (March to May and September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, while winters can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
Things to Do in Qala i Naw
Qala-i-Naw is the capital city of Badghis province in western Afghanistan. Although it is a small city, there are still some interesting things to do in and around Qala-i-Naw. Here are some of the top things to do in Qala-i-Naw:
Visit the historic Qala-i-Naw Citadel: The Qala-i-Naw Citadel is a historic fortress located in the center of the city. It is believed to have been built in the 18th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Explore the local markets: The bazaars and markets in Qala-i-Naw offer a unique shopping experience where you can find a variety of local products such as fruits, vegetables, spices, handicrafts, and more.
Visit the Qala-i-Naw Museum: The Qala-i-Naw Museum is a small museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. It is located in the heart of the city and is open to visitors throughout the week.
Take a trip to the Qala-i-Naw hot springs: The Qala-i-Naw hot springs are located about 12 kilometers outside the city and offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Visit the Badghis Minaret: The Badghis Minaret is a historic tower located in the Badghis district, about 20 kilometers from Qala-i-Naw. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century and is a popular tourist attraction.
Take a trip to the Ab-i-Kamari district: The Ab-i-Kamari district is located about 60 kilometers from Qala-i-Naw and is known for its natural beauty and wildlife. It is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
Attend a traditional Afghan wedding: If you are lucky enough to be invited to a traditional Afghan wedding in Qala-i-Naw, it is an experience you should not miss. It is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and customs.
How to get around in Qala i Naw
Qala-i-Naw is a relatively small city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, for longer distances, you can take a taxi or a private car.
Taxis are the most common mode of transportation in Qala-i-Naw. They can be hailed on the streets or arranged through your hotel or accommodation. It is important to negotiate the price before getting into the taxi.
You can also rent a car in Qala-i-Naw. Car rental companies are available at the airport, and you can also arrange for car rental through your hotel or accommodation. However, it is recommended to have a local driver if you are not familiar with the area.
Where to eat in Qala i Naw
Qala i Naw is a relatively small city, so there may not be many options for dining out. However, you can try some of the local restaurants or food stalls that serve traditional Afghan cuisine. Some popular dishes in Afghanistan include kebab, qabuli pilau, mantu (dumplings), ashak (leek dumplings), and bolani (flatbread stuffed with vegetables).
One local restaurant you can try in Qala i Naw is the Afghan Delicious Restaurant. They serve a variety of traditional Afghan dishes, including kebab and pilau. Another option is the Qala i Naw Food Center, which offers a range of dishes at reasonable prices. It’s also a good idea to ask locals for recommendations on where to eat as they can provide valuable insights into the best food options in the area.
Famous street stalls in Qala i Naw
As Qala i Naw is a smaller city in Afghanistan, there are not many famous street stalls or food vendors in the area. However, you can still find some local Afghan restaurants and tea shops that offer traditional Afghan dishes such as kabobs, pilaf, and mantu. Some popular places to eat in Qala i Naw include Kuchi Cafe, Balkh Restaurant, and Andkhoi Cafe. It’s always a good idea to ask locals for their recommendations as they may know some hidden gems that are not listed online.
Where to stay in Qala i Naw
Luxury accommodation
As Qala i Naw is a smaller city, there are limited options for luxury accommodation. However, there are a few mid-range and budget hotels available. Here are some of the best options:
Safi Landmark Hotel & Suites: This is a popular mid-range hotel in Qala i Naw, offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and satellite TV. The hotel also features a restaurant serving Afghan and international cuisine, as well as a fitness center.
Tamim Hotel: Located in the city center, Tamim Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations with basic amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. There is also an on-site restaurant serving Afghan and Indian cuisine.
Aryub Hotel: Another budget-friendly option in Qala i Naw, Aryub Hotel features basic rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. There is also an on-site restaurant serving local and international dishes.
Pamir Hotel: This is another budget-friendly option in Qala i Naw, offering simple rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. There is also an on-site restaurant serving traditional Afghan dishes.
Keep in mind that accommodation options in Qala i Naw may be limited, so it’s best to book in advance if possible.
Where to stay in Qala i Naw
Budget accommodation
There are a few budget accommodation options in Qala-i-Naw that travelers can consider:
Afghan Guest House: This guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as a private bathroom and Wi-Fi. It is located in the city center and is close to many shops and restaurants.
Pamir Hotel: This hotel has basic rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.
Marwa Hotel: This hotel has simple and clean rooms with basic amenities such as a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves traditional Afghan cuisine.
Naween Hotel: This hotel offers simple and affordable rooms with basic amenities such as a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves traditional Afghan cuisine.
It is recommended to check the reviews and ratings of these accommodations before making a booking, and to also confirm the availability of the amenities that are important to you.
Travel Tips Qala i Naw
Qala-i-Naw is a city in Afghanistan and here are some travel tips that may come in handy:
Travel documents: Ensure that your passport and visa are valid for at least six months from the date of your entry into Afghanistan.
Safety: Qala-i-Naw is generally safe, but it is still important to exercise caution and stay alert while traveling, especially in public places.
Language: The official languages of Afghanistan are Pashto and Dari. It is recommended to learn some basic phrases in the local languages or carry a phrasebook.
Dress code: Afghanistan is a conservative country and it is advised to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites.
Transport: The most common modes of transportation in Qala-i-Naw are taxis and buses. Make sure to negotiate the fare before boarding a taxi and ensure that the vehicle is in good condition.
Currency: The Afghan Afghani is the currency used in Qala-i-Naw. It is advised to carry enough cash as ATMs are not widely available.
Health: It is recommended to consult a doctor and take necessary vaccinations before traveling to Afghanistan. Drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid consuming street food.
Culture: It is important to respect the local culture and customs while traveling in Qala-i-Naw. Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals or their property.
Weather: The best time to visit Qala-i-Naw is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters can be cold and snowy.
Communication: Internet and mobile services are available in Qala-i-Naw, but the speed and coverage may vary. It is advisable to carry a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for communication.