Background

Qargha Reservoir: Kabul's Lakeside Escape

Discover a serene escape just west of Kabul at Qargha Reservoir, a popular recreational area with boating, dining, and scenic beauty.

4.7

Escape the bustle of Kabul at Qargha Reservoir, a man-made lake west of the city. Originally built for irrigation in the 1930s, it blossomed into a popular recreational spot in the 1950s, offering boating, restaurants, and scenic views.

A brief summary to Qargha Reservoir

  • Kabul, Qargha, AF

Local tips

  • Visit during spring (March to May) or early fall (September to November) for pleasant weather [6].
  • Exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings, checking current travel advisories [3, 6].
  • Bargain respectfully when taking a taxi or ride-sharing service [3, 7].
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Kabul, the most convenient way to reach Qargha Reservoir is by taxi or ride-sharing service [3, 7]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey [3]. A typical ride from the city center to the reservoir takes approximately 30-50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions [3]. Aim for a fare between 1500 to 2000 AFN [7]. Be sure to confirm the final price with the driver before you begin your trip [3].

  • Public Transport

    Local buses and shared taxis also operate from various points in Kabul towards Qargha [3, 7, 10]. Head to a major bus terminal in Kabul, such as the one near Kabul University, and inquire about transport heading towards Qargha [3]. Fares typically range from 50 to 100 AFN [3, 7, 10]. This option may be less direct and more time-consuming, but it is a budget-friendly alternative [3]. Be prepared for potential language barriers and crowded conditions [3].

Unlock the Best of Qargha Reservoir

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Qargha Reservoir

Qargha Reservoir, also known as Qargha Lake, is a captivating destination located a short distance west of Kabul, Afghanistan [3]. This man-made lake has evolved into a beloved recreational area, offering a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle [3]. Its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings provide a haven for relaxation and outdoor activities, attracting both locals and tourists seeking respite and natural beauty [3]. Originally constructed in the 1930s during the reign of King Mohammad Zahir Shah, the Qargha Dam and Reservoir were primarily intended for irrigation purposes, ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding agricultural lands [3, 4, 5, 11]. In the 1950s, under Prime Minister Mohammed Daoud Khan, its potential as a recreational site was recognized, transforming it into a popular leisure destination [3, 4, 5, 11]. The reservoir's creation involved damming the Paghman River, resulting in a water spread area of 5,000 hectares and a reservoir volume of 32.8 million cubic meters [3, 4, 5, 11]. Throughout its history, Qargha Reservoir has mirrored Afghanistan's own journey, experiencing periods of prosperity and challenges [3]. The 1960s and 70s marked a golden age for the reservoir, with enhanced infrastructure and increased tourism [3, 9]. However, the subsequent decades of conflict and instability took their toll, leading to periods of disrepair and insecurity [3]. Despite these hardships, Qargha Reservoir has demonstrated remarkable resilience, remaining a symbol of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Afghan people [3]. Today, Qargha Reservoir is experiencing a resurgence, with renewed efforts to revitalize its recreational facilities and attract visitors [3]. The reservoir offers a variety of activities, including boating, paddle-boating, fishing, and picnicking [3, 12, 14]. Several restaurants and cafes dot the shoreline, providing dining options with scenic lake views [3, 13, 14]. The surrounding hills offer opportunities for hiking and exploration, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural landscape [3].

Popular Experiences near Qargha Reservoir

Popular Hotels near Qargha Reservoir

Select Currency