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Zarnegar Park: Kabul's Historic Green Retreat

Discover Kabul's green heart: a historic park offering tranquility and a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage.

Zarnegar Park, meaning 'Adorned with Gold', is a verdant urban park in the heart of Kabul, Afghanistan. Developed in the late 1950s, it features a central green hill, trees, flowers, and the mausoleum of Emir Abdur Rahman Khan, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Afghan history [2, 3].

A brief summary to Zarnegar park

  • G5CG+979، پارک زرنگار, Kabul, Shahre Naow, AF

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience and to avoid midday heat [22].
  • Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy a relaxing meal on the park's lawns [22].
  • Check local listings for cultural events or performances in the park [22].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Shahre Naow, Zarnegar Park is easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the main road; the park entrance will be visible. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from most points in the district. No costs involved [22].

  • Public Transport

    While Kabul's public transportation system is still developing, the Milli Bus service operates on some routes in the city [7, 14, 18]. Check local sources for the most up-to-date route information and potential stops near Zarnegar Park. A one-way ticket costs approximately 98 AFN [5]. Be aware that public transport can be crowded, especially during peak hours [14, 18].

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Kabul [7, 22]. A short taxi ride from anywhere in Shahre Naow to Zarnegar Park should cost approximately 100-300 Afghanis, depending on traffic and the driver [8, 9, 22]. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey [22]. Ride-hailing apps are also available and may offer more transparent pricing [9, 11].

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Discover more about Zarnegar park

Zarnegar Park, a 15.6-acre urban sanctuary, is located in the center of Kabul, north of the Kabul River [2, 3]. The park's name, meaning 'Adorned with Gold' in Dari, is taken from a pavilion built in 1892 by Emir Abdur Rahman Khan, which served as his personal guesthouse [2, 3]. After his death, his son Habibullah Khan chose to bury him here, adding historical significance to the site [2, 3]. The park itself was developed in the late 1950s after the demolition of several state-owned buildings [2]. The park quickly became a popular spot for civilians, students, and soldiers seeking relaxation [2, 3]. In recent years, it has also served as a venue for protests and community campaigns [2, 3]. The park features a central green hill adorned with trees and flowers [2]. Winding pathways invite leisurely strolls, while benches offer shaded relaxation [3, 4]. The mausoleum of Emir Abdur Rahman Khan, with its bulbous red dome and intricate minarets, stands as a striking example of 19th-century architecture [3]. While the interior isn't always open, the exterior provides a glimpse into Afghanistan's opulent past [3]. In 2006, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) began rehabilitation work, restoring the park's historic character and enhancing its functionality [3, 19]. This included planting approximately 750 saplings and 500 flowering shrubs, improving irrigation, and laying new turf [3, 19]. Today, Zarnegar Park remains a vital community space, offering a peaceful retreat and a reminder of Kabul's resilience [3, 4].

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