Band-e-Amir National Park: Afghanistan's Azure Jewel
Discover Afghanistan's hidden gem: Band-e-Amir National Park, a stunning landscape of turquoise lakes and dramatic canyons, offering a unique escape.
Band-e-Amir National Park, Afghanistan's first national park, is a stunning landscape of six intensely blue lakes set amidst dramatic canyons in the central highlands [6, 10]. Formed by natural travertine dams, the lakes offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and a serene escape [3, 10].
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 during late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for the most pleasant weather and vivid lake colors [2, 3].
- Bring cash, as the park entrance fee (200 AFN) is payable in cash at the gate [2, 3].
- Wear sturdy footwear for hiking the rugged trails around the lakes [2].
- Pack sufficient supplies, including water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited [2].
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 [2, 7]. The roads can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during winter [2]. Hire a local driver in Bamyan; expect to pay around 1,500-2,500 AFN for a day trip [2, 3]. The park entrance fee is 200 AFN per person, payable in cash at the gate [2, 3].
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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, 3]. The fare is approximately 250 AFN per person each way [2, 3]. These minivans depart only when full, so flexibility is essential [3]. 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, 3]. From Bala Tang, hire a local taxi for the remaining 5 kilometers to the park entrance for around 50 AFN [3]. The park entrance fee is 200 AFN per person, payable in cash at the gate [2, 3].
Discover more about Band-e-Amir National Park
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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