Qargha Lake Park: Kabul's Lakeside Escape
Escape the bustle of Kabul at Qargha Lake Park: a serene retreat offering boating, picnics, and scenic beauty amidst Afghanistan's natural landscape.
Qargha Lake Park, located a short distance west of Kabul, is a popular recreational area centered around a man-made reservoir. Established in the 1960s, the park offers a tranquil escape from the city with boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities amidst scenic hills and greenery [3, 13]. Despite past challenges, it remains a symbol of resilience and a testament to Afghanistan's natural beauty [3].
A brief summary to Qargha Lake Park
- H24V+G9R, Kabul, AF
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography and a more peaceful experience [6, 7].
- Bring a picnic blanket and local snacks to enjoy a meal amidst the scenic beauty by the lake [6].
- Consider renting a boat to explore the lake; it's a unique way to see the park from a different perspective [6, 7].
- Dress modestly and respect local customs; conservative attire is recommended [3, 6].
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant outing, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly [6, 7].
Getting There
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Taxi/Ride-Share
The most convenient way to reach Qargha Lake Park from central Kabul is by taxi or ride-sharing service [2, 6]. A one-way trip typically costs between 1500 to 2000 Afghanis (AFN), depending on traffic and your negotiation skills [2, 5]. The journey usually takes 30-45 minutes [2, 6]. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your trip [5, 6]. Be aware that prices may increase during peak hours or holidays [6].
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Public Transport
For a more budget-friendly option, take a local bus or shared minibus from Kabul's eastern bus station towards Qargha [2, 6, 5]. The fare is significantly cheaper, around 50-100 AFN per person [2, 6, 5]. Confirm with the driver that they are heading to Qargha Lake Park, as some routes may vary [6]. From the bus stop near Qargha Lake, it's a short, clearly marked walk to the park entrance [6]. Be prepared for potential language barriers and crowded conditions [2, 5].
Discover more about Qargha Lake Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Badam Bagh Research Farm
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Polytechnic University
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Jawzjan hostel.(لیلیه جوزجان)
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Parvan 2 Square
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Hotal Pervan Square
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Sakhi Shrine
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Sakhi Tomb
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Unmissable attractions to see
Qargha Dam
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Qargha Reservoir
1.0 km
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Kabul Golf Club
1.0 km
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Kabul Golf club-Qargha
1.2 km
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Pole Sorkh
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Kabul Zoo
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City park
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Babur Garden
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DarulAman Palace
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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CHA Ofice
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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