Balkh: The Mother of Cities
Explore Balkh, the 'Mother of Cities,' a historical crossroads on the Silk Road with ancient ruins, Zoroastrian heritage, and Buddhist influence.
Balkh, also known as the 'Mother of Cities,' is an ancient town in northern Afghanistan, steeped in over 2,500 years of history as a vital hub along the Silk Road [4, 6, 11]. Once the capital of Bactria, it was conquered by Alexander the Great and later became a center of Zoroastrianism and Buddhism [4, 11]. Despite being destroyed by the Mongols in 1220, Balkh remains a fascinating site for history and archaeology enthusiasts [5, 11].
A brief summary to Balkh district
- Unnamed Road, Balkh, AF
- +93787590512
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or autumn for pleasant weather, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and cold of winter.
- Dress modestly, respecting local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the ruins and landmarks.
- Bargain respectfully when shopping in the local bazaars for carpets, embroidery, and other traditional crafts.
Getting There
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Taxi
From Mazar-i-Sharif, taxis are readily available to Balkh. A taxi ride will take approximately 30 minutes [20]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Expect to pay around 1500-2000 AFN for a full day [23], or $30-$40 USD for a one way trip [20].
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Shared Taxi
Shared taxis are a more affordable option for traveling from Mazar-i-Sharif to Balkh. Head to the shared taxi station, a 1-minute walk from Rahat Hotel [9]. A seat in a shared taxi costs around 50 AFN [9].
Discover more about Balkh district
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Balkh district
0.0 km
Explore Balkh, the 'Mother of Cities,' a historical crossroads on the Silk Road with ancient ruins, Zoroastrian heritage, and Buddhist influence.
Green Mosque
1.1 km
Discover the Green Mosque in Balkh, a stunning display of Timurid architecture and Islamic heritage, home to the revered shrine of Khawaja Abu Nasr Parsa.
Tomb of Rabia Balkhi - مقبره رابعه بلخی
1.2 km
Visit the Tomb of Rabia Balkhi in Balkh, Afghanistan, and honor the legacy of a pioneering Persian poetess and her timeless verses of love and courage.
Bactres
1.2 km
Discover Bactres, the 'Mother of Cities,' a Silk Road oasis with a rich tapestry of history and culture in northern Afghanistan [3].
Eteefaq Masjed
17.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Eteefaq Masjed, a cultural gem in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan.
Kefayat Super Market
18.3 km
Experience Afghan culture and find everyday essentials at Kefayat Super Market in Mazar-i-Sharif. Open daily, a vibrant hub for locals and travelers.
گذر سرپل ها
18.4 km
Discover the cultural and architectural beauty of Gazar Serpal Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif, a serene reflection of Islamic heritage.
Almas Wedding Hall سالون عروسی الماس
18.7 km
Celebrate love in style at Almas Wedding Hall, Mazar-i-Sharif's premier venue for unforgettable weddings and special events. Experience elegance and meticulous attention to detail.
Baba Qamber Masjed
19.7 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Mazar-i-Sharif at Baba Qamber Masjed, a serene mosque embodying Afghanistan's rich Islamic heritage.
مسجد پارسا اول
19.9 km
Discover Parsa No1 Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif: A serene landmark embodying Afghanistan's Islamic heritage and architectural artistry.
Mawla Ali Shopping Center- مارکیت مولاعلی
20.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Mazar-i-Sharif at Mawla Ali Shopping Center, offering a mix of traditional crafts and modern goods.
آیسکریم ویژه Icecream vizha
20.6 km
Indulge in delightful ice cream at آیسکریم ویژه Icecream vizha in Mazar-i-Sharif, offering a sweet taste of Afghan hospitality and local flavors.
Rabia Balkhi Memorial یادگاه رابعه بلخی
20.9 km
Explore the legacy of Rabia Balkhi, a 10th-century Persian poet, at her memorial in Mazar-i-Sharif, a symbol of Afghan culture and resilience.
مجتمع ورزشی و تفرحیی شناوران Swimmers
21.1 km
Stay fit and connect with the local community at Swimmers Gym in Mazar-i-Sharif, a modern fitness hub open daily for locals and tourists!
Mazar i sharif
21.2 km
Discover Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan: A city of faith, history, and stunning blue-tiled architecture, home to the revered Shrine of Ali.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bandar Sheberghan City
1.4 km
Explore Bandar Sheberghan City, a historic Silk Road hub in northern Afghanistan, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and archaeological wonders.
Ancient Wall of Balkh
1.9 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Balkh, Afghanistan, where history and culture converge along the legendary Silk Road. Explore the enduring legacy of the 'Mother of Cities'.
Qala-i-Jangi
13.8 km
Explore Qala-i-Jangi, a 19th-century Afghan fortress near Mazar-i-Sharif, and witness a powerful symbol of resilience and a poignant reminder of the nation's turbulent history.
Kamgar Garden باغ کامگار
19.4 km
Escape to tranquility at Kamgar Garden in Mazar-i-Sharif, a beautiful oasis offering a serene retreat and a glimpse into Afghan culture.
Shrine of Hazrat Ali
20.8 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Mazar-i-Sharif at the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, a mesmerizing oasis of Islamic history, culture, and stunning blue tilework.
Rawza e Mubarak Museum
20.8 km
Discover Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage at the Rawza e Mubarak Museum in Mazar-i-Sharif.
Khalid Bin Walid Family Park
23.6 km
Escape to Khalid Bin Walid Family Park in Mazar-i-Sharif for recreation, relaxation, and a vibrant community atmosphere for all ages.
Khaled Ibne Walid Family Park
23.6 km
Escape to Khaled Ibne Walid Family Park in Mazar-i-Sharif for a serene retreat amidst lush greenery and vibrant cultural celebrations. A must-visit urban oasis.
Al Hakim At-Termizi Mausoleum
61.7 km
Explore the spiritual legacy of Al-Hakim at-Termizi, a revered Sufi theologian, at this historic mausoleum complex near Termez, Uzbekistan.
Archaeological Museum
63.7 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan at the Termez Archaeological Museum, where history comes alive through ancient artifacts and exhibits.
Kokildor-Ota Khanaka
66.0 km
Explore Kokildor-Ota Khanaka, a serene mausoleum in Uzbekistan's Surxondaryo Region, rich in history and tranquility for every traveler.
Kirk Kiz Fortress
66.2 km
Discover the historical grandeur of Kirk Kiz Fortress in Uzbekistan, a breathtaking site steeped in ancient stories and stunning landscapes.
Sultan Saodat Mausoleum
66.8 km
Explore the Sultan Saodat Mausoleum, a stunning Islamic architectural marvel in Termez, Uzbekistan, reflecting the region's rich spiritual heritage.
Uchqizil ko'li
73.3 km
Explore Uchqizil Ko'li, a stunning lake in Uzbekistan’s Surxondaryo Region, perfect for relaxation, hiking, and experiencing local culture.
Gory Kiyan-Chagal
88.0 km
Explore Gory Kiyan-Chagal: A stunning mountain peak in Turkmenistan, perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing in nature's tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Kabul Ziba ,Balkh-Afghanistan
1.4 km
Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at Restaurant Kabul Ziba in Balkh - where tradition meets flavor.
Balkh restaurant
17.0 km
Discover authentic Afghan flavors at Balkh Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Shakoor Mandozai21
17.4 km
Discover the rich tastes of authentic Afghan cuisine at Shakoor Mandozai21 in the heart of Mazar-i-Sharif.
خمآب رستورانت
17.6 km
Discover authentic Afghan flavors at خمآب رستورانت in Mazar-i-Sharif – where every meal tells a story.
Sultan Bahce Restaurant
18.3 km
Discover authentic Afghan flavors at Sultan Bahce Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif – where culinary tradition meets modern taste.
Baghcha Mazar Restaurant and Hookah
18.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Baghcha Mazar Restaurant and Hookah – a must-visit dining experience in Mazar-i-Sharif.
رستورانت وطنی
19.1 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at رستورانت وطنی in Mazar-i-Sharif, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
مهمان خانه غضنفر
19.2 km
Savor authentic Afghan flavors at مهمان خانه غضنفر in Mazar-i-Sharif – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant Darbar MAZAR
19.9 km
Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at Restaurant Darbar MAZAR in Mazar-i-Sharif—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
رستورانت وقیلون سرا الخیر
20.0 km
Discover authentic Afghan flavors at رستورانت وقیلون سرا الخیر in Mazar-e-Sharif - where every meal is a taste of tradition.
Chicken hot restaurant
20.0 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Chicken Hot Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif—where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Emperatory Baran Hotel
20.1 km
Experience an unforgettable culinary journey at Emperatory Baran Hotel's exquisite buffet in Mazar-i-Sharif.
ویس رستورنت شورتاکزار
20.2 km
Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at ویس رستورنت شورتاکزار in Mazar-i-Sharif, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
ریاست غذا و ادویه
20.2 km
Explore health-conscious dining at The State of Food and Spice in Mazar-i-Sharif—where nutritious meals meet authentic Afghan flavors.
رستورانت و مهمان سرای بلخ باستان Balkh e Bastan Restaurant
20.2 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Balkh e Bastan Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif – where tradition meets taste.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Khalil Rahmani
1.0 km
Explore Khalil Rahmani in Balkh, Afghanistan - A shopping haven combining local culture with modern retail experiences.
OlkarPen
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at OlkarPen in Balkh, Afghanistan – a blend of local culture and modern retail.
Bilal Bashir
1.4 km
Discover Bilal Bashir, a men's clothing store in Balkh, Afghanistan, offering unique styles that blend tradition with modern fashion.
MTN&MOMO Services
1.5 km
Discover essential services at MTN&MOMO in Balkh, Afghanistan - your hub for mobile connectivity and convenience.
Mustafa super market سوپر مارکیت مصطفی
10.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Afghanistan at Mustafa Supermarket, your go-to destination for local goods and cultural souvenirs in Baba.
Haq Nazar
17.3 km
Explore Haq Nazar, Mazar-i-Sharif's premier glass shop, showcasing exquisite handmade glassware that embodies Afghan craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Car Accessories Shops دوکاکین پرزه جات موتر
18.2 km
Explore the vibrant Car Accessories Shops in Mazar-i-Sharif, offering a wide range of quality automotive accessories in a lively atmosphere.
شیر پیره فروشی روح الله
20.3 km
Discover the unique offerings of شیر پیره فروشی روح الله, a charming general store in Mazar-i-Sharif, where local culture meets delightful shopping.
موقعيت مبايل
20.3 km
Explore authentic Afghan culture and craftsmanship at موقعيت مبايل in Mazar-i-Sharif, a unique shopping experience awaits.
صایم سوپرمارکیت
20.6 km
Discover a treasure trove of local goods and delightful flavors at صایم سوپرمارکیت in Mazar-i-Sharif, a must-visit shopping destination for tourists.
فروشگاه حاجی عنایت الله و برادران
20.8 km
Explore the rich heritage at حاجی عنایت الله و برادران Store, Mazar-i-Sharif, where tradition meets vibrant craftsmanship.
مواد قنادی فروشی نصرت احمدی و نعمت احمدی
20.8 km
Explore the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Nasrat Ahmad and Nemat Ahmad Confectionery Store, a sweet haven in Mazar-i-Sharif.
دکان قنادی کربلایی سلطان
20.8 km
Experience the sweetness of Afghan culture at دکان قنادی کربلایی سلطان, a grocery store offering a variety of traditional sweets and snacks.
footsal
20.9 km
Discover the literary treasures of Footsal, a charming book store in Mazar-i-Sharif, where Afghan culture and literature come alive.
Afghan Handicrafts
21.0 km
Explore the unique artistry of Afghanistan at Afghan Handicrafts, where every piece tells a story of culture and tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
غلام پلو(ghulaam palow)
0.9 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Ghulaam Palow in Balkh, where traditional flavors and warm hospitality meet.
Matiurrahman Rahmani
1.0 km
Explore Balkh with peace of mind at Matiurrahman Rahmani, your go-to pharmacy for health essentials and expert advice during your travels.
خمآب رستورانت
17.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at خمآب رستورانت, a top-rated dining destination in Mazar-i-Sharif known for its authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Haseeb Restaurant حسیب رستورانت و ایسکریم ویژه
18.3 km
Experience the flavors of Afghanistan at Haseeb Restaurant, a top family-friendly destination for delicious meals and delightful ice creams in Mazar-i-Sharif.
Watan Supermarket وطن سوپرمارکت
18.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Watan Supermarket, a vibrant market showcasing local produce and authentic delicacies for every traveler.
Restaurant Mazar Darbar (رستورانت مزار دربار)
19.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Mazar Darbar, a restaurant that embodies traditional Afghan hospitality and culinary art.
Rahat Hotel
20.0 km
Discover Rahat Hotel in Mazar-i-Sharif: A blend of comfort and Afghan hospitality awaits in this vibrant city.
رستورانت سخی زاده
20.6 km
Discover the rich flavors of Afghan cuisine at Sakhizadeh Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif, a culinary haven for tourists seeking authentic dining experiences.
ترکمن ایشلکی Turkmen Eshliki
20.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Turkmen cuisine at Turkmen Eshliki in Mazar-i-Sharif, a culinary haven for food lovers seeking local flavors.
Barat hotel
20.9 km
Experience the charm of Mazar-i-Sharif at Barat Hotel - a cozy hostel perfect for exploring the rich culture and history of Afghanistan.
قلیون سرا قنبر Qelion Sara-e Qambar
21.0 km
Discover the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Qelion Sara-e Qambar, a top café in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, perfect for a cultural dining experience.
سیرت رستورانت
21.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Sirat Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif, where authentic dishes meet warm hospitality.
قصابی محمد بشیر قاری زاده
21.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at قصابی محمد بشیر قاری زاده, Mazar-i-Sharif's unique bar blending local culture with a lively atmosphere.
Karim Mart
21.3 km
Discover the essence of Afghan culture at Karim Mart in Mazar-i-Sharif, your go-to supermarket for local delicacies and everyday essentials.
Maqamat Cafe مقامات کافه
21.3 km
Experience flavorful Afghan cuisine in a cozy setting at Maqamat Cafe in Mazar-i-Sharif.
