bigtravelbuzzSharana is a city located in the southeastern part of Afghanistan, and it is the capital of Paktika province. The city has a rich history and cultural heritage, with several historical sites and natural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Sharana:
Qal’a-e-Khwaja: This is an ancient fortress located on a hilltop overlooking the city. It dates back to the 11th century and is believed to have been built by the Ghaznavids.
Sharana City Park: This is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city, with lush greenery and walking paths. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Sharana Bazaar: This is the main market in the city, where you can find a variety of local goods and handicrafts.
Khost-Gardez Pass: This is a scenic mountain pass located between Sharana and Gardez, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Urgun District: This is a district located to the south of Sharana, known for its natural beauty and hiking trails.
Tani Waterfall: This is a beautiful waterfall located about 50 kilometers from Sharana, offering a refreshing retreat from the hot summer months.
Paktika Museum: This is a small museum located in the city center, showcasing the history and culture of Paktika province.
The best time to visit Sharana is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when visiting Sharana.
Best Time To Visit Sharana
The best time to visit Sharana is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, the temperature is usually between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day and drops to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at night, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The summer months (June to August) in Sharana can be very hot, with temperatures often reaching above 35°C (95°F). It can also be a time of occasional thunderstorms and dust storms, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. The winter months (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when visiting Sharana.
Things to Do in Sharana
Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, Afghanistan, offers a range of activities for visitors. Here are some things to do in Sharana:
Visit Qal’a-e-Khwaja: Explore the ancient fortress located on a hilltop overlooking the city. The fort dates back to the 11th century and is believed to have been built by the Ghaznavids.
Enjoy Sharana City Park: Relax and take a stroll in the beautiful park located in the heart of the city. The park features lush greenery and walking paths.
Shop at Sharana Bazaar: Experience the local market in the city where you can find a variety of local goods and handicrafts.
Hike the Khost-Gardez Pass: Take a scenic mountain hike located between Sharana and Gardez, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Visit Urgun District: Explore the natural beauty and hiking trails in the district located to the south of Sharana.
Tani Waterfall: Enjoy the beautiful waterfall located about 50 kilometers from Sharana, offering a refreshing retreat from the hot summer months.
Visit Paktika Museum: Discover the history and culture of Paktika province at this small museum located in the city center.
Attend local festivals: Experience the local culture and festivities by attending local events and festivals.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when visiting Sharana.
How to get around in Sharana
The best way to get around Sharana is by private car or taxi. You can hire a taxi or a private car from the city center or from your hotel. Most of the major attractions in Sharana are within a short distance from the city center, and a taxi or private car can take you there easily.
Public transportation in Sharana is limited and may not be reliable. However, there are some local buses that operate within the city and to nearby towns. If you choose to use public transportation, it’s important to ask for advice from locals and ensure that the bus is safe to travel in.
Walking is also an option if you want to explore the city center or nearby areas. However, it’s important to take necessary precautions and be aware of the security situation in the city. It’s best to stay on main roads and avoid walking alone at night.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when traveling in Sharana.
Where to eat in Sharana
There are several restaurants and food stalls in Sharana that serve traditional Afghan cuisine as well as some international dishes. Here are some options:
Afghan Spice Restaurant: Located in the city center, this restaurant offers a variety of Afghan dishes, including kabobs, pulao, and mantu.
Gul Naz Restaurant: Another popular restaurant in the city center that serves traditional Afghan cuisine, including lamb and chicken dishes, as well as vegetarian options.
Shahr-e-Nau Fast Food: This food stall located near the city park offers a range of fast food items, including burgers, fries, and sandwiches.
Sharana Bakery: This bakery in the city center offers a variety of fresh bread, pastries, and cakes.
Bamiyan Bakery: Another bakery in the city center that offers a range of fresh bread and pastries.
Khan’s Kebab House: Located on the outskirts of the city, this restaurant offers a variety of kabobs and other grilled dishes.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when visiting restaurants in Sharana.
Famous street stalls in Sharana
As Sharana is a small city with a limited number of street stalls, there are no specific street stalls that are famous. However, there are some food vendors that are popular among locals and visitors alike. Here are some options:
Tea stalls: There are several small tea stalls located throughout the city that serve hot tea with biscuits or naan.
Fruit vendors: During the summer months, you’ll find fruit vendors selling fresh watermelons, melons, and other seasonal fruits on the streets.
Ice cream vendors: There are a few ice cream vendors in the city center that sell a variety of ice cream flavors, including traditional Afghan flavors like saffron and pistachio.
Kebab carts: You’ll find a few kebab carts set up in the city center that serve freshly grilled meat kabobs.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when visiting street stalls in Sharana.
Where to stay in Sharana
Luxury accommodation
As Sharana is a small city, there are limited options for luxury accommodation. However, there are a few hotels that offer comfortable and well-equipped rooms with modern amenities. Here are some options:
Paktia Guest House: This guest house is located in the city center and offers clean and comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving traditional Afghan cuisine.
Paktia Hotel: This hotel is located on the outskirts of the city and offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving Afghan and international cuisine.
Ariana Hotel: This hotel is located in the city center and offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving Afghan and international cuisine.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when traveling in Sharana.
Where to stay in Sharana
Budget accommodation
There are several budget accommodation options available in Sharana, ranging from guesthouses to budget hotels. Here are some options:
Spinzar Hotel: This budget hotel is located in the city center and offers basic but comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a restaurant serving traditional Afghan cuisine.
Darulaman Guest House: This guest house is located in the city center and offers simple but clean rooms with free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen for guests to use.
Aryub Hotel: This budget hotel is located on the outskirts of the city and offers basic rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving Afghan and international cuisine.
Helmand Guest House: This guest house is located in the city center and offers simple but clean rooms with free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen for guests to use.
It’s important to note that due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety when traveling in Sharana.
Travel Tips Sharana
If you’re planning a trip to Sharana, here are some travel tips that may be helpful:
Check for travel advisories: Due to the current security situation in Afghanistan, it’s important to check for travel advisories before planning your trip. Stay up to date on the situation and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety while traveling in Sharana.
Dress modestly: Sharana is a conservative city, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially if you’re a woman. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or anything that could be considered disrespectful.
Respect local customs and traditions: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, and try to learn about them before your trip. For example, it’s considered disrespectful to take photos of people without their permission.
Learn some basic Dari: While many people in Sharana speak Pashto, the official language of Afghanistan, it may be helpful to learn some basic Dari phrases before your trip, as it’s widely spoken in the city.
Be prepared for limited amenities: Sharana is a small city, so you may not find all the amenities you’re used to. Be prepared for limited access to things like ATMs, pharmacies, and supermarkets.
Be respectful of local beliefs: Afghanistan is an Islamic country, so it’s important to be respectful of local beliefs. Avoid drinking alcohol in public or during Ramadan, and be mindful of local customs when it comes to prayer times and other religious practices.
Hire a local guide: If you’re unfamiliar with the area or concerned about safety, it may be helpful to hire a local guide to show you around Sharana.
Take care of your health: Make sure to take necessary health precautions before your trip, such as getting vaccinated and packing any necessary medication. Also, be mindful of what you eat and drink to avoid getting sick.