Band-e-Amir National Park: Afghanistan's Azure Jewel
Discover Band-e-Amir National Park: a breathtaking landscape of turquoise lakes and dramatic canyons in the heart of Afghanistan's Bamyan Province.
Band-e-Amir National Park, Afghanistan's first national park, is a stunning collection of six turquoise lakes in the Hindu Kush mountains [2, 5]. Created by natural travertine dams, the lakes offer a unique and breathtaking landscape [3, 5]. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and exploring the rich cultural history of the area [6, 13].
A brief summary to Band-e-Amir National Park
- R6WF+7XH, Bala Tang, AF
- +93444534257
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and vivid lake colors [4, 6].
- Bring cash, as the park entrance fee (200 AFN) is payable in cash at the gate [6].
- Wear sturdy footwear for hiking the rugged trails around the lakes [6].
- Pack sufficient supplies, including water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited [6, 14].
Getting There
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Driving
From Bamyan city, Band-e Amir National Park is approximately a 3-4 hour drive (75 km) via a scenic mountain route [6, 16]. The roads can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during winter [6, 16]. Hire a local driver in Bamyan; expect to pay around 1,500-2,500 AFN for a day trip [6]. Upon arrival at the park entrance, there is a 200 AFN entrance fee payable in cash [6, 11].
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Public Transport
Shared minivans to Band-e Amir are available from Bamyan Bazaar, particularly on Thursdays and Fridays during the high season [2, 6]. The fare is approximately 250 AFN per person each way [6]. These minivans depart only when full, so flexibility is essential [6]. Alternatively, take a minivan towards Yakawlang (200 AFN) and disembark at the turn-off to the lakes, followed by a 3-hour walk to the park; bring water [2, 6]. From Bala Tang, hire a local taxi for the remaining 5 kilometers to the park entrance for around 50 AFN [6]. The park entrance fee is 200 AFN per person, payable in cash at the gate [6, 11].
Discover more about Band-e-Amir National Park
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