Kandahar, Afghanistan Travel Guide

Discover Kandahar: A Journey Through Afghanistan's Rich History and Culture, From Ancient Monuments to Bustling Bazaars and Serene Natural Landscapes.

Kandahar, the second-largest city in Afghanistan, is a destination rich in history and culture. As the birthplace of modern Afghanistan, founded by Ahmad Shah Durrani in the 18th century, it offers a unique glimpse into the past. Walking through the streets of Kandahar, you will feel as though you are stepping back in time, surrounded by ancient architecture and monuments that tell the story of Afghanistan’s storied history. One of the most iconic landmarks in Kandahar is the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani, where the founder of the Durrani Empire rests. The beautifully preserved mausoleum is a testament to the architectural prowess of the time and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection. Nearby, you can visit the Shrine of the Cloak, which houses a cloak believed to have belonged to the Prophet Muhammad. This site is a place of immense religious significance and offers a quiet place for contemplation. For those interested in exploring local culture, the Kandahar Bazaar is a must-visit. Here, you can find an array of traditional Afghan crafts, textiles, and spices. The bustling market is a sensory overload, with vibrant colors, sounds, and smells that will leave a lasting impression. Additionally, the local cuisine, featuring dishes like Kabuli Pulao and mantu, will delight your taste buds and give you a true taste of Afghan hospitality. Nature lovers can venture just outside the city to the Arghandab Valley, known for its lush greenery and orchards. This fertile area is a stark contrast to the arid surroundings of Kandahar and offers a peaceful escape where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Afghanistan. Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Kandahar has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kandahar.

Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for the best weather conditions.
Dress modestly and respectfully to adhere to local customs and traditions.
Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical and cultural significance of the sites.
Be cautious and stay updated on the current security situation before traveling.
Carry local currency (Afghan Afghani) as credit card facilities may be limited.

Best landmarks in Kandahar

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Nang Baba Kandahary Grave دننګ بابا زيارت

Discover the serene Nang Baba Kandahary Grave in Kandahar, a historical landmark offering a profound connection to Afghanistan's heritage.

Best restaurants in Kandahar

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Anar Restaurant Kandahar

Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at Anar Restaurant in Kandahar, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and tradition.

4.2

HAJI BABA RESTAURANT AND HOTEL

Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Haji Baba Restaurant and Hotel, where tradition meets hospitality in every dish.

4.4

Pizza point resturant, wasi

Experience the authentic taste of Kandahar at Pizza Point Restaurant – where traditional flavors meet modern dining.

3.8

Al Bilal Restaurant

Experience the essence of Afghan cuisine at Al Bilal Restaurant in Kandahar – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.8

Best bars in Kandahar

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China Market

Experience the vibrant culture of Kandahar at China Market, your gateway to local goods, delicious cuisine, and community spirit.

4.2

Anar Restaurant Kandahar

Discover the authentic flavors of Afghanistan at Anar Restaurant in Kandahar, where tradition meets exceptional dining.

4.2

HAJI BABA RESTAURANT AND HOTEL

Discover the authentic tastes of Afghanistan at Haji Baba Restaurant and Hotel, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.

4.3

NFC COMPLEXE

Explore the multifaceted NFC Complex in Kandahar, where dining, sports, and leisure blend into an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Kandahar

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ठी. The LaLa & Company

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Kandahar at ठी. The LaLa & Company, where music and culture unite for an unforgettable evening.

Best shops in Kandahar

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Mirwais Market

Explore the vibrant Mirwais Market in Kandahar, a cultural gem filled with local goods, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, perfect for any traveler.

4.2

Kandahar Supermarket

Explore Kandahar Supermarket for an authentic taste of Afghan culture with fresh produce and local delicacies in a vibrant grocery shopping experience.

4.3

Kandahar Aino Mena

Discover the essence of Kandahar at Aino Mena, a vibrant general store showcasing unique local products and cultural treasures.

4.6

Lubna Super Market

Explore Kandahar's local flavors and products at Lubna Super Market, a vibrant hub for shopping and cultural experience.

4.2

Explore Kandahar on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kandahar, mapped for you.

Kandahar Essentials

Kandahar is primarily accessed via Kandahar International Airport (KDH), which has flights connecting from major cities in the region such as Kabul, Herat, and sometimes international destinations. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Kabul, which is approximately a 5-hour drive. Be aware of the security situation and check local travel advisories before planning your trip.
In Kandahar, local transportation options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and minibuses. Taxis are the most convenient and can be hailed on the street or booked through local operators. Auto-rickshaws are a cheaper option for short distances. Public minibuses operate on fixed routes and are very affordable, though they might be crowded and not very comfortable.
The official currency in Afghanistan is the Afghan Afghani (AFN). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash. There are a few ATMs in Kandahar, but their availability can be inconsistent. It is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Kabul or another major city before traveling to Kandahar.
Safety is a significant concern in Kandahar due to ongoing conflict and instability. It is essential to stay informed about the current security situation and avoid high-risk areas. Neighborhoods with higher crime rates targeting tourists include some parts of the city center and remote areas. Always travel with a trusted local guide and avoid nighttime travel.
In case of emergency, dial 119 for police assistance and 112 for medical emergencies. It is crucial to have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. The main hospital in Kandahar is Mirwais Regional Hospital. For less urgent medical needs, there are several pharmacies in the city. Make sure to keep emergency contact numbers and your consulate's contact information handy.
Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men should avoid wearing shorts, and women should cover their heads and wear long sleeves and trousers or skirts. Religion: Do show respect for Islamic customs. Avoid public displays of affection and photographing religious sites without permission. Public Transport: Do be respectful and polite. Don't use public transport during rush hours if you can avoid it. Greetings: Do greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). A handshake is common among men, but men should wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and eat with your right hand. Don't refuse hospitality, it is considered impolite.
To experience Kandahar like a local, visit the bustling Kandahar Bazaar where you can buy traditional Afghan clothing, spices, and handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet Mohammed and the Chilzina View, offering panoramic views of the city. Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the local customs and history.

When is the best time to visit Kandahar?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kandahar

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kandahar. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloسلام
  [Salam]
- Goodbyeخداحافظ
  [Khodahafez]
- Yesبله
  [Bale]
- Noنه
  [Na]
- Please/You're welcomeلطفاً/خواهش می‌کنم
  [Lotfan/Khaahesh mikonam]
- Thank youتشکر
  [Tashakor]
- Excuse me/Sorryببخشید
  [Bebakhshid]
- How are you?چطور هستید؟
  [Chetor hastid?]
- Fine. And you?خوب هستم. و شما؟
  [Khob hastam. Va shoma?]
- Do you speak English?آیا انگلیسی صحبت می‌کنید؟
  [Aaya Engilisi sohbat mikonid?]
- I don't understandمن نمی‌فهمم
  [Man nemifahmam]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseلطفاً منو را ببینم
  [Lotfan menu ra bebinam]
- I don't eat meatمن گوشت نمی‌خورم
  [Man gusht nemikhoram]
- Cheers!به سلامتی!
  [Be salamati!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseلطفاً می‌خواهم پرداخت کنم
  [Lotfan mikhahm pardakht konam]
- Help!کمک!
  [Komak!]
- Go away!برو کنار!
  [Boro kenar!]
- Call the Police!پلیس را صدا بزنید!
  [Police ra seda bezanid!]
- Call a doctor!دکتر را صدا بزنید!
  [Doctor ra seda bezanid!]
- I'm lostمن گم شده‌ام
  [Man gom shode-am]
- I'm illمن بیمار هستم
  [Man bimar hastam]
- I'd like to buy...می‌خواهم بخرم...
  [Mikhaham bekharam...]
- I'm just lookingفقط دارم نگاه می‌کنم
  [Faghat daram negah mikonam]
- How much is it?قیمتش چقدر است؟
  [Gheymatash chaqadr ast?]
- That's too expensiveاین خیلی گران است
  [In kheili geran ast]
- Can you lower the price?آیا می‌توانید قیمت را پایین بیاورید؟
  [Aaya mitavanid gheymat ra paeen biavarid?]
- What time is it?ساعت چند است؟
  [Saat chand ast?]
- It's one o'clockساعت یک است
  [Saat yek ast]
- Half past (10)نیم ساعت (۱۰)
  [Nim saat (10)]
- Morningصبح
  [Sobh]
- Afternoonبعد از ظهر
  [Bad az zuhr]
- Eveningشب
  [Shab]
- Yesterdayدیروز
  [Dirooz]
- Todayامروز
  [Emrooz]
- Tomorrowفردا
  [Farda]
- 1۱
  [1]
- 2۲
  [2]
- 3۳
  [3]
- 4۴
  [4]
- 5۵
  [5]
- 6۶
  [6]
- 7۷
  [7]
- 8۸
  [8]
- 9۹
  [9]
- 10۱۰
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?کجا هست ...؟
  [Koja hast ...?]
- What's the address?آدرس چیست؟
  [Address chist?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?می‌توانید به من نشان بدهید (روی نقشه)؟
  [Mitavanid be man neshan bedahid (ruye naqsha)?]
- When's the next (bus)?کی اتوبوس بعدی است؟
  [Ki otobus ba'di ast?]
- A ticket (to ....)یک بلیط (به ...)
  [Yek belit (be ...)]

History of Kandahar

Kandahar, one of Afghanistan's oldest cities, is believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE. Known as Alexandria Arachosia during ancient times, Kandahar has been a melting pot of various cultures and civilizations, from the Persian Empire to the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom.
In the 7th century, Islamic forces arrived in Kandahar, marking the onset of significant cultural and religious transformation. The city became an important center for Islamic learning and trade routes, contributing to the spread of Islamic culture throughout the region.
During the 10th and 11th centuries, Kandahar came under the control of the Ghaznavid Empire, followed by the Ghurid Empire in the 12th century. These periods were marked by extensive architectural developments and flourishing trade, making Kandahar a vital hub in the Islamic world.
In the 16th century, Kandahar became a contested territory between the Safavid and Mughal Empires. The Mughals, under Emperor Babur, managed to capture the city, which remained under Mughal control for several decades. This era saw the construction of various fortifications and gardens, some of which still stand today.
The early 18th century saw the rise of the Hotak Dynasty, founded by Mirwais Hotak, a local tribal leader who declared independence from the Safavid Empire. Kandahar became the capital of the Hotak Dynasty, marking a period of relative autonomy and prosperity.
In 1747, Ahmad Shah Durrani, also known as Ahmad Shah Baba, established the Durrani Empire with Kandahar as its first capital. This period is considered the foundation of modern Afghanistan, and Kandahar played a crucial role as a political and cultural center.
Kandahar was a strategic focal point during the Anglo-Afghan Wars in the 19th century. The city witnessed significant military engagements, including the famous Battle of Kandahar in 1880, where Afghan forces led by Ayub Khan were defeated by British troops.
In the late 20th century, Kandahar faced turmoil during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (1979-1989). The city became a stronghold for Mujahideen fighters, and the conflict left a lasting impact on its infrastructure and population.
In the 1990s, Kandahar emerged as the birthplace and stronghold of the Taliban movement. The city experienced significant changes under Taliban rule until the U.S.-led invasion in 2001. Since then, Kandahar has been a focal point in the ongoing conflict and efforts towards stabilization and development.