Historical Gholghola City: The City of Screams
Unearth the echoes of history at the City of Screams in Bamyan, where ancient ruins meet breathtaking landscapes, offering a glimpse into a resilient past [4, 6].
Explore the haunting ruins of Gholghola City in Bamyan, Afghanistan, also known as the 'City of Screams' [4, 6]. This ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Afghanistan's rich and turbulent past [6, 13]. Once a thriving hub along the Silk Road, it met a tragic end at the hands of the Mongol armies in 1221 [4, 6].
A brief summary to Historical Gholghola City
- RR9Q+M8H, Bamyan, AF
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and requires walking [4].
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and fewer crowds [4].
- Hire a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance [4].
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited at the site [4].
- Respect the local customs and traditions while visiting this historical site [22].
Getting There
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Bamyan city center, taxis are readily available [4]. A shared taxi ('sayar') to Gholghola City from the main taxi stand near the local market costs approximately 200 AFN per person [4]. The ride takes about 15-20 minutes, dropping you near the entrance [4]. Negotiate the fare beforehand for private taxis, which may cost between 500-1000 AFN [4, 18].
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Walking
For adventurous travelers, walking from Bamyan city center is an option [4]. Head west on Bazaar Road until its end, then turn left at the roundabout onto Sayadabad Street [6, 9]. The site is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the bazaar [6, 9]. The walk, which curves past wheat and potato fields, is a pleasant one, particularly in late summer [6]. Be aware that the path leading up to the citadel is steep and requires a moderate level of fitness [6]. Note that you will need to pass through a police checkpoint, so make sure to have your Bamyan Entrance Ticket which costs 300 AFS and includes access to the Buddha Niches, Shahr-e Zohak, and Shahr-e Gholghola [4, 25]. Tickets can be purchased at the Director of Information & Culture located in front of the Buddha Niches [4, 25].
Discover more about Historical Gholghola City
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
کوتل چوونی Old Russian Tanks
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Shamama Buddha Statue
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Bamyan Culture and Art House
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Kakrak valley caves
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SHAHR-E-ZOHAK
13.2 km
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Kōh-e Pāmī
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Koh-e Mianah Pozah
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Mullah Khel maidan Wardak
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Unmissable attractions to see
Buddhas of Bamiyan
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Buddha of Bamyan
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Dragon Valley
8.2 km
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Koh-e Awpar
22.7 km
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Band-e-Amir National Park
56.1 km
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Band-e Amir
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Pawaz paein
70.0 km
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Gaw Kush
97.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Gawhargen restaurant
0.8 km
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Kabul Reatuarant
0.9 km
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Ansaf Restaurant and Hotel
0.9 km
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Shahram Hotel هوتل شهرام
1.0 km
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Khorsheed Restaurant
1.1 km
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Chaikhana
1.1 km
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Bamyan Tourist Hotel
1.2 km
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ShamamaRestaurant
1.4 km
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Roof Of Bamyan هوتل بام بامیان
1.4 km
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Gholghola hotel هوتل غلغله
1.5 km
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Abdullah merzayi
98.6 km
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Abdullah agha
98.6 km
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Saqib sahil
98.6 km
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be quiet
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Danna Florez
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MoMo Agent
0.8 km
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Insaf Super Market
0.8 km
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Buddha Book Café
0.8 km
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Madine Market
0.8 km
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Begzad Super Market
0.9 km
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بازارچه هنر Craft Bazaar
1.0 km
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بامیان درملتون Bamian pharmacy
1.1 km
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Red flower bakery
1.1 km
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Silk Road Hotel Restaurant
1.4 km
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Ay khanum restaurant
2.0 km
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شهر جدیدبامیان Bamyan New City
2.1 km
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Bamika Super Market
4.9 km
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Rahimi shop
52.8 km
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وحیدالله فیضی د کلوچه پلورنځی Wahidullah Faizi Cake Shop
63.6 km
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Shopping Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bamyan Royal Hotel
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Blue Net Club
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ماما نجف
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Ghulghula Hotel
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ABDARAH
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Sakhi Restaurant سخی رستورانت
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Tarkan
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Yousaf
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Praça do estupro
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رحمت الله Pco
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Almas
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Saeed
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Bakthash Qaderi
98.6 km
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Salt Factory
99.2 km
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