bigtravelbuzzTakhar is a province located in the northeastern part of Afghanistan. Here are some places to visit and things to do in Takhar:
Taloqan City: Taloqan is the capital city of Takhar province and a must-visit destination. It is home to the Takhar Museum, which showcases the province’s cultural heritage, including ancient coins, pottery, and textiles.
Darwaz-e Bala: This is a beautiful mountain pass located in the northeast of Takhar province. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
Hazrat-i-Shah Rukh-e-Sharif Mausoleum: This is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Hazrat-i-Shah Rukh-e-Sharif, a Sufi saint who lived in the 16th century. The mausoleum is located in the city of Taloqan and is a popular pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists.
Yangi Qala: This is a historic town located in the southwest of Takhar province. It is home to the ruins of an ancient citadel that dates back to the 6th century AD.
Ski Resort: Takhar is home to a ski resort located in the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountains. The resort is open from December to March and offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Takhar Bazaar: This is a bustling market located in the heart of Taloqan city. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Afghan clothes.
Kunduz River: The Kunduz River is one of the most beautiful waterways in Afghanistan. It is located in the south of Takhar province and is a great place for fishing, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
Boqurtagh Lake: This is a stunning lake located in the mountains of Takhar province. It is surrounded by picturesque scenery and is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
Agriculture Farms: Takhar is known for its agricultural products, such as almonds, apricots, and pomegranates. Visitors can explore local farms and orchards and learn about the region’s farming practices.
Local Festivals: Takhar province hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Apricot Festival, which celebrates the region’s apricot harvest. Visitors can enjoy traditional food, music, and dance performances during these festivals.
Best Time To Visit Takhar
The best time to visit Takhar province is from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are mild. During this time, the skies are clear, and the landscapes are lush and green, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and sightseeing. However, it’s important to note that the temperatures can get quite hot during July and August, so it’s important to take precautions such as staying hydrated and avoiding being outdoors during the hottest parts of the day. It’s also worth noting that Takhar experiences a harsh winter with heavy snowfall, so it’s best to avoid visiting during the winter months from December to February.
How to get around in Takhar
The most common mode of transportation in Takhar is by shared taxis or private taxis, which can be easily found in the cities and towns. These taxis can be flagged down on the street or hired from a taxi stand. It’s important to negotiate the fare before getting in, as fares are not always fixed and can vary depending on the distance and time of day.
Another option for getting around in Takhar is by bus, which operates on major routes between the cities and towns. However, buses are not always reliable, and the schedules can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to check the schedules in advance and arrive at the bus station early to secure a seat.
For those who prefer to explore Takhar at a slower pace, bicycles can be rented in some of the larger towns, which can be a great way to see the countryside and enjoy the fresh air. However, it’s important to be aware of the local road conditions and traffic, as some roads can be rough and unpaved, and traffic can be chaotic in some areas.
Where to eat in Takhar
Takhar is a province in Afghanistan that is known for its delicious and authentic Afghan cuisine. There are many local restaurants and street stalls that serve traditional dishes such as kabuli pulao, qabili palau, mantu, and ashak. Some of the best places to eat in Takhar include:
Alif Café and Restaurant: This restaurant in the city of Taloqan is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, serving up delicious kebabs, pulao, and other traditional dishes.
Khanum Restaurant: Located in the city of Taloqan, this restaurant offers a wide range of Afghan dishes, including soups, stews, and grilled meats.
Qala-i-Zal Restaurant: This restaurant in the town of Qala-i-Zal is known for its delicious mantu and ashak, which are traditional Afghan dumplings.
Samangan Restaurant: This popular restaurant in the city of Taloqan serves up a range of traditional Afghan dishes, including kabuli pulao and qabili palau.
Street food stalls: There are many street food stalls throughout Takhar that serve up a range of delicious snacks and meals, including kebabs, samosas, and fresh fruit. These stalls are a great option for those on a budget and are looking for a quick and tasty meal.
Famous street stalls in Takhar
Takhar is a province in Afghanistan that is known for its delicious street food. Some of the most famous street stalls in Takhar include:
Kebab stalls: There are many kebab stalls throughout Takhar that serve up a range of grilled meats, including lamb, beef, and chicken. These stalls are often found on street corners and in markets.
Samosa stalls: Samosas are a popular snack in Takhar, and there are many street stalls that sell them fresh and hot. These stalls are often found in markets and near bus stations.
Fruit stalls: Takhar is known for its fresh and delicious fruit, and there are many street stalls that sell a range of seasonal fruits, including melons, pomegranates, and grapes.
Naan stalls: Naan is a type of Afghan bread that is baked in clay ovens and is a staple food in Takhar. There are many street stalls that sell fresh naan, which is often served with kebabs and other dishes.
Tea stalls: Tea is a popular drink in Takhar, and there are many street stalls that sell hot, sweet tea. These stalls are often found in markets and near bus stations and are a great place to relax and people-watch.
Where to stay in Takhar
Luxury accommodation
Takhar is not a heavily touristy area, so there are not many luxury accommodations available in the province. However, there are a few options that may meet the criteria for luxury accommodations. Some options include:
Badakhshan Serena Hotel: This hotel is located in neighboring Badakhshan province but is one of the closest luxury hotels to Takhar. It offers beautiful views of the mountains and the Panj River and features a pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
Faizabad Guest House: This guest house is located in the capital of Takhar province, Taloqan, and offers a range of comfortable rooms and suites. It features a restaurant and free Wi-Fi.
Takhar Guest House: This guest house is also located in Taloqan and offers comfortable rooms and suites with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. It features a restaurant and 24-hour front desk.
It is worth noting that accommodations in Takhar may not meet the standards of luxury accommodations in other parts of the world, so it is important to do research and set realistic expectations.
Where to stay in Takhar
Budget accommodation
There are a variety of budget accommodations available in Takhar province, ranging from basic guesthouses to homestays. Here are a few options:
Taloqan Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the capital of Takhar province, Taloqan, and offers affordable rooms with basic amenities. It features a restaurant and 24-hour front desk.
Nawbahar Hotel: This hotel is located in Taloqan and offers budget-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi. It features a restaurant and 24-hour front desk.
Homestays: There are a number of families in Takhar province that offer homestay accommodations for travelers. This is a great option for budget travelers who want to experience local culture and hospitality.
It is important to note that budget accommodations in Takhar may not have the same level of amenities and services as more expensive accommodations. It is important to do research and read reviews before booking to ensure that the accommodation meets your needs and expectations.
Travel Tips Takhar
Here are some travel tips for visiting Takhar:
Dress appropriately: Takhar is a conservative province, and it is important to dress modestly to respect local customs and traditions. It is recommended to wear long pants and sleeves and to avoid revealing clothing.
Check travel advisories: Before traveling to Takhar, it is important to check travel advisories and security warnings issued by your country’s embassy or consulate in Afghanistan. The security situation in Takhar can change quickly, so it is important to stay informed and take appropriate precautions.
Use a reputable tour operator: If you are planning to visit Takhar, it is recommended to use a reputable tour operator with experience in the region. They can help you navigate the local customs and traditions and provide guidance on safety and security.
Learn some basic Dari: Dari is the most commonly spoken language in Takhar, so it is helpful to learn some basic phrases before traveling to the province. This can help you communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.
Respect local customs and traditions: Takhar is a conservative province with strong traditions and customs. It is important to respect these customs and traditions, including dress codes and gender roles.
Be prepared for basic accommodations: Takhar is not a heavily touristy area, so accommodations may be basic and lack modern amenities. It is important to be prepared for this and to bring any necessary supplies with you.
Get travel insurance: It is recommended to purchase travel insurance before traveling to Takhar. This can help protect you in case of unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or theft.
Stay hydrated: Takhar is a desert province with hot, dry weather. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids to avoid dehydration.
Be respectful of photography: In some areas of Takhar, photography is not allowed or requires permission from local authorities or individuals. It is important to be respectful of these rules and to ask for permission before taking photos of people or places.