Bactres: Crossroads of Civilizations
Discover Bactres, the 'Mother of Cities,' a Silk Road oasis with a rich tapestry of history and culture in northern Afghanistan [3].
Explore Bactres (Balkh), an ancient city in northern Afghanistan, once a vital Silk Road hub where Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and Islam converged. Discover its rich history, from Alexander the Great to the Mongol invasions, and wander through the ruins of this once-great 'Mother of Cities'.
A brief summary to Bactres
- QV5X+6GH, Balkh, AF
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy a more peaceful exploration of the site [3].
- Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the ruins [3, 4].
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking [3].
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available near the site [3, 4].
Getting There
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the center of Balkh city, a taxi or ride-share is the most practical way to reach the archaeological site of Bactres [3]. Negotiate the fare beforehand, aiming for approximately 150-300 AFN for the round trip, including waiting time [3, 4]. The journey is short, roughly 5-10 minutes, heading in the general direction of the airport [3]. Use landmarks such as the main bazaar or the road towards Mazar-e-Sharif as orientation points [3]. Note that ride-sharing apps may have limited availability in this region [3].
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Public Transport
Shared taxis or minibuses are available from the main transportation hub in Balkh city towards surrounding areas [3]. Inquire for a ride heading in the general direction of 'Qarya-yi Bactres' or the road towards Mazar-e-Sharif [3]. The fare should be significantly cheaper than a private taxi, around 20-50 AFN per person [3]. Be prepared for a potentially crowded ride and a short walk (approximately 15 minutes) from the drop-off point to the actual site [3]. Look for local signs or ask for directions to 'Bactres ruins' from the drop off point [3].
Discover more about Bactres
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bactres
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Tomb of Rabia Balkhi - مقبره رابعه بلخی
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Green Mosque
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Balkh district
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Almas Wedding Hall سالون عروسی الماس
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Baba Qamber Masjed
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مسجد پارسا اول
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Mawla Ali Shopping Center- مارکیت مولاعلی
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مجتمع ورزشی و تفرحیی شناوران Swimmers
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bandar Sheberghan City
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Ancient Wall of Balkh
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Qala-i-Jangi
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Kamgar Garden باغ کامگار
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Rawza e Mubarak Museum
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Khalid Bin Walid Family Park
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Khaled Ibne Walid Family Park
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Archaeological Museum
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Kokildor-Ota Khanaka
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Kirk Kiz Fortress
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Sultan Saodat Mausoleum
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Essential places to dine
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Sultan Bahce Restaurant
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Baghcha Mazar Restaurant and Hookah
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مهمان خانه غضنفر
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Restaurant Darbar MAZAR
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ویس رستورنت شورتاکزار
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رستورانت و مهمان سرای بلخ باستان Balkh e Bastan Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Khalil Rahmani
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Bilal Bashir
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OlkarPen
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MTN&MOMO Services
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موقعيت مبايل
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Hafiz Jewelery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Matiurrahman Rahmani
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Haseeb Restaurant حسیب رستورانت و ایسکریم ویژه
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Watan Supermarket وطن سوپرمارکت
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Restaurant Mazar Darbar (رستورانت مزار دربار)
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Rahat Hotel
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Barat hotel
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قلیون سرا قنبر Qelion Sara-e Qambar
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Maqamat Cafe مقامات کافه
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