From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Malan Bridge.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Malan Bridge: A Historic Crossing of the Hari River
Discover the historic Malan Bridge in Herat, a centuries-old architectural marvel on the ancient Silk Road, connecting cultures and eras.
Malan Bridge, or Pul-i-Malan, is a historic bridge located about 12 km south of Herat, Afghanistan, connecting the Injil and Guzara districts [3, 4]. Built around 1110 AD during the Seljuk dynasty, it has been a vital link across the Hari River for centuries [3, 4, 7].
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Malan Bridge
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
75PR+HGW، Unnamed Road, Herat, AF
Discover more about Malan Bridge
Malan Bridge, historically known as Pul-i-Malan, stands as a testament to Herat's rich past, gracefully arching over the Hari River [4, 7]. Constructed around 1110 AD during the reign of Seljuk Sultan Ahmad Sanjar, the bridge has served as a vital artery for trade, communication, and cultural exchange [3, 4].Legend says mythical princesses Bibi Nur and Bibi Hur, followers of Zoroastrianism, built the bridge around AD 900. They mixed eggshells with clay, creating a resilient structure [3, 4, 7, 13]. The bridge originally featured 17 arches, but now has 22 due to reconstructions [4]. It stretches 230 meters long, 8 meters wide, and 10 meters high, constructed from baked bricks and concrete [3, 4].Throughout its history, Malan Bridge has faced numerous challenges, including floods and wars [4]. It was partially destroyed during the Soviet-Afghan War, but was rebuilt in 1995 by the Danish Committee for Aid to Afghan Refugees [3, 4]. Today, Malan Bridge stands as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the enduring spirit of Herat [4, 7]. Visitors can stroll across its ancient stones and take in the views [7].
Explore places near Malan Bridge
Getting There
Taxi
From central Herat, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to Malan Bridge, approximately 12 km south of the city, will take around 20-30 minutes. Expect to pay between 1350 AFN to 1650 AFN for the trip [5, 6, 15]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey [5, 6].
Public Transport
Local buses travel from Herat to areas near Malan Bridge. In the absence of designated bus stops, it is best to ask locals about the bus routes and stops. The cost is minimal, but the journey may involve a 15-20 minute walk from the drop-off point to the bridge [8, 11].
A brief summary to Malan Bridge
Use Malan Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.