Background

Bandar Sheberghan City: Crossroads of Culture and History

Explore Bandar Sheberghan City, a historical crossroads on the Silk Road with ancient citadels, bustling bazaars, and the gateway to Bactrian Gold.

3

Bandar Sheberghan City, the capital of the Jowzjan Province in northern Afghanistan, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage [3]. Situated along the ancient Silk Road, it has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia [3, 5]. The city offers a blend of historical sites, bustling markets, and natural beauty [3].

A brief summary to Bandar Sheberghan City

  • دروازه بلخ, Balkh, AF

Local tips

  • Engage with locals to learn about Sheberghan's history and culture; their stories offer unique insights [5].
  • Explore the local bazaars for traditional crafts and textiles, supporting local artisans [5, 7].
  • Try local cuisine, such as Kabuli palaw or manto, for an authentic taste of Afghan flavors [5].
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in central Sheberghan, a taxi is a practical way to reach Darwaza-e-Balkh in Balkh [5]. Negotiate the fare beforehand; expect to pay around 200-300 AFN for a short trip within the city [5]. The journey should take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic [5]. Taxi starting price is about 61 AFN, and 1 km ride is about 100 AFN [4].

  • Public Transport

    Local buses or shared taxis (often minivans) are available from the Sheberghan City Bus Terminal [5, 8]. Inquire about routes heading towards Balkh; these can drop you relatively close to Darwaza-e-Balkh [5]. The fare is typically very low, around 30-50 AFN [5]. Be prepared for a potentially crowded ride. The average cost of public transportation in Sheberghan is approximately 33 AFN for a one-way ticket [4].

Unlock the Best of Bandar Sheberghan City

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bandar Sheberghan City

Bandar Sheberghan City, the capital of Jowzjan Province in northern Afghanistan, stands as a testament to the country's rich history and cultural heritage [3]. This ancient city, located approximately 130 km west of Mazar-i-Sharif, has been a vital crossroads of civilizations for millennia, serving as a key settlement along the Silk Road [3, 5]. Its strategic location has made it a focal point of power in the northeast corner of Bactria, attracting traders, conquerors, and travelers from across the globe [3]. Sheberghan's history stretches back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting settlement as early as 1000 B.C [3]. The city's name, derived from the Persian "Shaporgân" (meaning "[King] Shapur's town"), hints at its Sasanian roots [3]. Over the centuries, Sheberghan has been ruled by various empires and dynasties, each leaving their mark on the city's cultural landscape [3]. In the 13th century, Marco Polo visited Sheberghan and marveled at its honey-sweet melons, a testament to the region's agricultural bounty [3]. One of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the region was the unearthing of the Bactrian Gold at Tillia Tepe, just outside Sheberghan, in 1978 [3, 5]. This collection of over 20,000 gold ornaments, dating back to the 1st century CE, showcases the opulence and artistry of the ancient Kushan Empire [3]. The Bactrian Gold, now housed in the National Museum of Afghanistan, is a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage and a must-see for any visitor interested in history and archaeology [3]. Today, Bandar Sheberghan City offers a unique blend of historical sites, bustling markets, and natural beauty [3]. The historic citadel of Sheberghan, dating back to the Silk Road era, provides panoramic views of the city and offers a glimpse into the architectural styles that have influenced the region over centuries [3, 7]. Wandering through the city's vibrant bazaars, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, encountering traditional crafts, textiles, and spices [3, 7].

Popular Experiences near Bandar Sheberghan City

Popular Hotels near Bandar Sheberghan City

Select Currency