Karte Sakhi: The Historic Heart of Kabul

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [khuda hafiz]
• Yesهو
  [hu]
• Noنه
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeمهربانی
  [mehrabani]
• Thank youتشکر
  [tashakur]
• Excuse me/Sorryببخشید
  [ba bakhshid]
• How are you?حال شما چطور است؟
  [haal shoma chetor ast?]
• Fine. And you?خوب. شما چطور؟
  [khob. shoma chetor?]
• Do you speak English?آیا شما انگلیسی صحبت می کنید؟
  [aya shoma engilisi sohbat mi konid?]
• I don't understandمن نمی فهمم
  [man nemi fahmem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseمن می خواهم منو را ببینم، لطفا
  [man mekhaham manu ra bebinam, lotfan]
• I don't eat meatمن گوشت نمی خورم
  [man goosht nemi khoram]
• Cheers!به سلامتی!
  [be salamati!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseمن می خواهم پرداخت کنم، لطفا
  [man mekhaham pardakht konam, lotfan]

• Help!کمک!
  [komak!]
• Go away!برو!
  [boro!]
• Call the Police!پلیس را صدا کنید!
  [polis ra seda konid!]
• Call a doctor!یک دکتر صدا کنید!
  [yek doktor seda konid!]
• I'm lostگم شدم
  [gom shodam]
• I'm illمن بیمار هستم
  [man bimar hastam]

• I'd like to buy...من می خواهم بخرم...
  [man mekhaham bekharam...]
• I'm just lookingمن فقط نگاه می کنم
  [man faqat negah mi konam]
• How much is it?این چقدر است؟
  [in chand ast?]
• That's too expensiveاین خیلی گران است
  [in kheyli geran ast]
• Can you lower the price?می توانید قیمت را کم کنید؟
  [mitavanid ghimat ra kam konid?]

• What time is it?ساعت چند است؟
  [saat chand ast?]
• It's one o'clockساعت یک است
  [saat yek ast]
• Half past (10)نیمه بعد (ده)
  [nime baad (dah)]
• Morningصبح
  [sobh]
• Afternoonعصر
  [asr]
• Eveningشب
  [shab]
• Yesterdayدیروز
  [diruz]
• Todayامروز
  [emruz]
• Tomorrowفردا
  [farda]
• 1یک
  [yek]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3سه
  [se]
• 4چهار
  [chahar]
• 5پنج
  [panj]
• 6شش
  [shesh]
• 7هفت
  [haft]
• 8هشت
  [hasht]
• 9نه
  [noh]
• 10ده
  [dah]

• Where's a/the...?کجا یک/این است؟
  [koja yek/in ast?]
• What's the address?آدرس چیست؟
  [adres chist?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?می توانید به من نشان دهید (روی نقشه)؟
  [mitavanid be man neshan dahid (rooye naqshe)?]
• When's the next (bus)?بعدی (اتوبوس) کی است؟
  [baadi (otobus) key ast?]
• A ticket (to ....)یک بلیط (به ...)
  [yek bilete (be ...)]

Karte Sakhi, located in Kabul, is known for its historical and cultural significance. The area is home to the shrine of Hazrat Ali, believed by many to be the burial site of the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad. This site has attracted pilgrims for centuries and has become a center of spiritual activity in the region, reflecting the deep-rooted Islamic traditions of Afghanistan.

The Karte Sakhi neighborhood showcases a blend of architectural styles influenced by the various civilizations that have traversed the region, including the Persian, Mughal, and modern Afghan styles. The intricate tile work and calligraphy found in its mosques and shrines represent the rich artistic heritage that flourished in Kabul across different dynasties.

Throughout the 20th century, particularly during the Soviet invasion and the subsequent civil war, Karte Sakhi was affected by the turmoil that gripped Afghanistan. Many historical sites in the area suffered damage, yet the resilience of the local community has led to ongoing efforts to restore and preserve its cultural heritage amidst adversity.

In recent years, Karte Sakhi has witnessed a revival of cultural and community initiatives aimed at restoring its historical sites and promoting local art and crafts. The area has become a focal point for cultural gatherings, festivals, and educational programs, reflecting a renewed interest in celebrating Afghan heritage and identity.

Today, Karte Sakhi stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity of Kabul. It continues to be a vibrant neighborhood that hosts various cultural events and serves as a hub for both locals and visitors looking to explore the historical and spiritual landscape of Afghanistan.

Karte Sakhi is located in the western part of Kabul. The easiest way to get there from other neighbourhoods is by taxi, which can be hailed on the street or booked through a ride-hailing app. Alternatively, you can take a local bus, with several routes passing through Karte Sakhi. From the airport, taxis are available, and the journey to Karte Sakhi typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Karte Sakhi is primarily navigated by taxi or private car, as public transport is limited. Walking is also a viable option in the neighbourhood, but it is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings. Bicycles are not commonly used by locals; therefore, hiring a vehicle or using taxi services is recommended for longer distances.

Karte Sakhi is generally considered safe during the day, but caution is advised, particularly at night. Areas near the main roads are usually safer, while some side streets may have higher crime rates. Avoid displaying valuables and always be aware of your surroundings. It is best to refrain from walking alone at night and to stay away from poorly lit areas.

In case of emergency, dial 119 for police assistance or 112 for medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, local pharmacies may have basic supplies and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques. Don't wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs; remove shoes when entering homes and mosques. Don't engage in public displays of affection. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do use a polite greeting and a handshake; a nod is respectful. Don't initiate contact with the opposite sex unless it’s a formal context. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings. Don't refuse food or drink, as this may be seen as impolite.

To experience Karte Sakhi like a local, consider visiting local bazaars where you can find fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with residents, as they are often hospitable and eager to share their culture. Don’t miss the Karte Sakhi Shrine, which is a significant cultural and religious site in the area. Attend local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them to immerse yourself in the local culture.