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Pul-e Kheshti Mosque: Kabul's Azure Heart

Kabul's largest mosque, featuring a stunning blue dome and intricate Afghan artistry, is a symbol of faith and resilience.

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Pul-e Kheshti Mosque, the largest in Kabul, is a significant religious and community hub. Originally built in the late 18th century, it was largely reconstructed in the 1960s and has been renovated since [5, 6]. The mosque is known for its large blue dome, intricate tile work, and blend of modern and traditional Islamic styles [3, 5].

A brief summary to Pul-e Kheshti Mosque

  • Monday 3:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Tuesday 3:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Wednesday 3:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Thursday 3:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Friday 3:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Saturday 3:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Sunday 3:30 am-9:30 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; women should cover their heads out of respect for local customs [6].
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals inside the mosque [6].
  • Be aware of prayer times and avoid causing any disturbance [16].
  • Explore the surrounding market areas for a glimpse into local commerce and culture [6, 16].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Pul-e Kheshti Mosque is in the heart of old Kabul, easily reachable on foot from many central points [6]. Look for the distinctive large blue dome [3, 5]. The mosque is near the Mobile Center, a well-known landmark [6]. Be mindful of crowds, especially during prayer times [6]. There are no costs associated with walking to the mosque [6].

  • Public Transport

    Kabul has public transportation options like buses [7, 12]. Bus fares are approximately 20 AFN [4, 12]. Use the transit authority website or a transit app to plan your bus journey [12]. Input your start and end points to find routes, including transfers and bus schedules [12].

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Kabul [7, 8]. A short taxi trip within the city may cost around $2 to $5 [8]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as taxis typically do not have meters [14].

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Discover more about Pul-e Kheshti Mosque

Nestled in the heart of Kabul, the Pul-e Kheshti Mosque, meaning "Brick Bridge Mosque," stands as a majestic landmark and the city's largest mosque [5, 6]. It serves as a vital center for worship and community [5]. The mosque's history dates back to the late 18th century, but it underwent significant reconstruction in the late 1960s under Zahir Shah, giving it much of its current form [5, 6]. The most striking feature is its enormous, vibrant blue dome, an azure beacon easily visible from afar, dominating the skyline of old Kabul [3, 5]. This dome, coupled with the mosque's towering minarets, creates a visually stunning architectural statement, blending international modern styles with traditional Afghan tiling [5]. The exterior's grandeur invites visitors to explore the spiritual and artistic treasures within [5]. Inside, the mosque features intricate designs and colorful mosaics, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Afghan artisans [5, 6]. Calligraphy adorns the walls, adding to the sense of reverence and artistic beauty [5]. The expansive prayer hall can accommodate thousands of worshippers, creating a powerful atmosphere of communal devotion, especially during daily prayers and religious observances [5, 6]. Originally erected during the reign of Timur Shah Durrani, the second ruler of the Durrani Empire, Pul-e Kheshti has witnessed centuries of Kabul's history [6]. Over the years, the mosque has been expanded and renovated by various rulers, each leaving their mark on its design and structure [6]. The most significant reconstruction occurred in the late 1960s under King Zahir Shah, modernizing the mosque while retaining its traditional Islamic elements [6]. The mosque suffered damage during the conflicts of the 1990s [5]. However, it was restored in the late 2010s and completed by 2019 [5]. Today, Pul-e Kheshti stands as a testament to the city's ability to overcome adversity [5]. Its towering minarets and gleaming blue dome serve as beacons of faith and symbols of Kabul's enduring cultural identity [5]. Visiting Pul-e Kheshti offers a unique opportunity to witness the daily life and spirituality of the Afghan people [5, 6]. The sounds of prayer, the sight of families gathering, and the palpable sense of community create an immersive cultural experience [5]. The mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths, encouraging them to observe the rituals and appreciate the artistry and architecture [6]. Modest dress is essential, with women required to cover their heads [6]. Photography is generally permitted, but it's always respectful to ask permission before taking pictures of individuals [6].

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