Herat Citadel: A Living Testament to Afghan History
Explore the ancient walls of Herat Citadel, a historic fortress dating back to Alexander the Great, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Afghanistan's past.
The Herat Citadel, also known as Qala Ikhtiyaruddin, stands as a proud symbol of Herat's rich history. Believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great in 330 BC, the citadel has been a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires, serving as a military garrison, a seat of power, and even a prison [4, 9, 10]. Today, it welcomes visitors to explore its ancient walls and discover the stories etched into its very stones [9].
A brief summary to Herat Citadel
- 85WQ+753 قلعه اختیارالدین (ارگ تاریخی هرات)، جاده انصاری, Herat, Pay-e-Hesar, AF
- +93728084000
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 10 am-4 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere [16].
- Wear conservative clothing to respect local customs; women may consider wearing a headscarf [14].
- Check travel advisories before planning your trip due to security concerns in the region [13].
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Herat city, the Citadel is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards the large park area north of the main bazaar. The Citadel is a prominent feature on the landscape and a short walk north from most central locations. Be aware of your surroundings and local customs while walking.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Herat. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Citadel should cost approximately 500 AFN during the day [6, 7]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Ride-hailing apps may also be available [7].
Discover more about Herat Citadel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Herat / Afghanistan
0.4 km
Discover Herat, the 'Pearl of Khorasan': A historic Silk Road city with stunning Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars, and a resilient spirit, offering a unique Afghan experience.
Arg Hotel
3.1 km
Experience modern comfort and warm Afghan hospitality at the Arg Hotel in Herat, perfectly located for exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture, with exceptional service and modern amenities.
Khoushak Brothers Co
3.7 km
Explore the industrial heart of Herat at Khoushak Brothers Co, where mining meets rich Afghan culture and stunning landscapes.
مجتمع تفریحی باغ ملت
3.7 km
Escape to Herat's green heart: Bagh-e-Mellat offers a tranquil retreat with lush gardens, a boating lake, and a taste of local Afghan culture, open daily.
Takht-e-Safar Park.
4.4 km
Escape to Takht-e-Safar Park in Herat for panoramic city views, lush greenery, and a tranquil retreat steeped in history, offering a serene getaway for families and culture enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Museum
0.1 km
Discover millennia of Afghan history at the National Museum of Herat, housed within the ancient Citadel and showcasing a rich collection of artifacts.
حوض چهارسو
0.7 km
Explore the historic حوض چهارسو in Herat, Afghanistan, a vibrant public square that echoes the city's rich cultural and commercial past.
Herat Central Blue Mosque
0.7 km
Discover the mesmerizing Herat Central Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage.
Herat Jame Mosque Park
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Herat Jame Mosque Park, a tranquil oasis blending nature and history alongside the architectural marvel of the Great Mosque of Herat.
مقبره گوهرشاد بیگم
1.3 km
Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of the Gowhar Shad Begum Mausoleum in Herat, a testament to Timurid artistry and the enduring legacy of a remarkable queen.
منارههای هرات (MANAR Ha)
1.5 km
Witness the grandeur of the Timurid era at the Minarets of Herat, a symbol of Afghan resilience and architectural brilliance that pierces the city's skyline.
انجمن حفظ ارزش ها دوران جهاد و مقاومت مردم هرات
1.6 km
Explore Afghanistan's resilience at the انجمن حفظ ارزش ها دوران جهاد و مقاومت مردم هرات, a museum preserving the nation's spirit of resistance and cultural heritage.
مجتمع تفریحی باغ ملت
3.7 km
Discover Baghe Mellat in Herat: A serene park offering lush greenery, cultural events, and a peaceful escape for families and tourists alike, open daily.
Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine
5.8 km
Discover the sacred Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine in Herat, a historical pilgrimage site blending spiritual significance with stunning architecture.
Malan Bridge
6.6 km
Discover the timeless beauty of Malan Bridge in Herat, a historic marvel connecting cultures and eras, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich heritage along the ancient Silk Road.
Shah Uzbeg caravanserai
95.5 km
Discover the echoes of the Silk Road at Shah Uzbeg Caravanserai, a historical treasure in Afghanistan, where ancient trade routes come to life.
Essential places to dine
Hotel Gulestan Maimana/هتل گلستان میمنه
0.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghan cuisine at Hotel Gulestan Maimana in Herat, where every dish tells a story.
هوتل و مسافرخانه بند امیر
0.5 km
Discover traditional Afghan flavors at Hotel and Guesthouse Band Amir in Herat – an essential stop for every traveler exploring Afghanistan.
آبمیوه چهار فصل
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Afghanistan at آبمیوه چهار فصل – where refreshing juices meet fast food delight in Herat.
رستورانت گلبرگ
0.7 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at رستورانت گلبرگ in Herat - where tradition meets taste.
رستورانت مهتاب مرکزی
0.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Afghanistan at رستورانت مهتاب مرکزی in Herat – where every dish tells a story.
ماهی فروشی صالحی
1.2 km
Discover authentic Afghan seafood at Sahli Fish Restaurant in Herat - where every dish tells a story.
Sham Herat Restaurant
1.2 km
Savor authentic Afghan cuisine at Sham Herat Restaurant - where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.
رستورانت نونیم
1.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Afghanistan at رستورانت نونیم in Herat – a culinary haven offering traditional dishes in a warm atmosphere.
رستورانت کابل قطغن
1.6 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Restaurant Kabul Qatghan in Herat – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
رسولی
1.7 km
Savor mouthwatering steaks at رسولی in Herat - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
شاهین نانوایی
1.8 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Shahin Nanai in Herat - a delightful journey through flavors and tradition.
Herat serina resturan and Arman saloon
1.8 km
Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at Herat Serina Restaurant and Arman Saloon - a perfect family-friendly dining experience in Herat.
Delha Resturant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Delha Restaurant in Herat - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Khaima Restaurant
2.0 km
Discover authentic Afghan flavors at Khaima Restaurant in Herat—where every dish tells a story.
شهر غذا
2.2 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Shahr-e-Ghaza in Herat—where every dish is crafted with tradition and flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Herat
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant streets and historic architecture of Herat, Afghanistan - a photographer's paradise rich in culture and beauty.
Best Astail
0.8 km
Explore Best Astail in Herat for an unforgettable shopping experience featuring traditional and modern Afghan fashion.
House of Fashion
0.9 km
Discover Herat's vibrant fashion scene at the House of Fashion, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a chic shopping experience.
فروشگاه ملودی
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant clothing styles and unique accessories at Melodi Store in Herat, a must-visit for fashion lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Herat Mini Shop
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant Herat Mini Shop for unique Afghan crafts, local souvenirs, and an immersive shopping experience in the heart of Herat.
سوپر ایسکریم بهارستان
1.1 km
Discover the flavors of Herat at سوپر ایسکریم بهارستان, where every scoop is a taste of happiness!
Herat Skechers
1.1 km
Shop for stylish and comfortable footwear at Herat Skechers, the premier shoe store in the historic city of Herat, Afghanistan.
فروشگاه ام فشن - M Fashion Store
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of Afghan fashion at M Fashion Store in Herat, where tradition meets modern style in a unique shopping experience.
فروشگاه طلای سفید - White Gold Store
1.1 km
Explore exquisite jewelry at White Gold Store, where Afghan craftsmanship meets elegance in the heart of Herat.
Herat afghan
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant markets of Herat, Afghanistan, where history, culture, and local flavors blend into an unforgettable experience.
فروشگاه بزرگ هایپرمی
1.1 km
Experience the rich diversity of Afghan culture at فروشگاه بزرگ هایپرمی in Herat, where local and international products come together.
Yassir modasir fashion
1.1 km
Discover unique Afghan fragrances at Yassir Modasir Fashion in Herat, where tradition meets scent in a captivating perfume experience.
مهتاب آسيا الكتريك
1.2 km
Discover a world of electronics at مهتاب آسيا الكتريك in Herat, where technology meets quality for every traveler.
فروشگاه میوه و سبزیجات هرات دهقان
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Herat at Dehqan Fruit and Vegetable Store, a local gem for fresh produce and authentic Afghan culinary experiences.
فروشگاه چهارمغز
1.3 km
Explore the exquisite fragrances of فروشگاه چهارمغز in Herat, Afghanistan, where every scent tells a story and enhances your beauty journey.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tanin,Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Afghanistan at Tanin Restaurant in Herat, where traditional dishes and warm hospitality await your visit.
آبمیوه چهارفصل شعبه اول
0.6 km
Experience the refreshing flavors of Four Seasons Juice Bar in Herat, where delicious ice creams and fresh juices await every visitor.
Tejarat International Hotel
0.7 km
Experience luxury and comfort at Tejarat International Hotel in Herat, Afghanistan, your gateway to exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Nazary Four Star Hotel
1.1 km
Nazary Four Star Hotel: Where Comfort Meets Afghan Hospitality in the Heart of Herat.
آهنگساز و نوازنده
1.4 km
Discover the melodic charm of the Piano Bar in Herat - a must-visit for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts in Afghanistan.
آهنگساز و نوازنده
1.4 km
Discover the enchanting ambiance of Herat's Piano Bar, where live music and local culture create an unforgettable evening of relaxation.
شیریخ و آبمیوه سرای حاجی حیدری
1.7 km
Discover the delightful flavors of حاجی حیدری Ice Cream Parlor in Herat - a sweet escape for every traveler!
کاپیسا
2.3 km
Experience the charm of Kapisah in Herat, a vibrant bar perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion in the heart of Afghanistan.
Network
2.6 km
Experience the lively bar culture in Herat, Afghanistan, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant setting.
دنیای بایسکل
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of دنیای بایسکل, Herat's premier sports bar for fans and tourists alike, where every game is a celebration!
ARABICA COFFEE
2.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Arabica Coffee, Herat’s premier espresso bar offering expertly crafted brews in a cozy setting.
Cafe greeko
3.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Herat at Café Greeko, an espresso bar offering a cozy ambiance and expertly crafted coffee drinks.
Azimi Bus Transport
3.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Azimi Bus Transport, a cultural hub in Herat where travelers enjoy local beverages and vibrant interactions.
Dark home
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Herat at Dark Home Pub, a cozy spot for locals and tourists to unwind with drinks and good company.
کوچه مندس
4.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of کوچه مندس in Herat, a bar that embodies local culture and vibrant nightlife.
