Khost, Afghanistan Travel Guide

Explore the untouched beauty and rich culture of Khost, Afghanistan – a hidden gem offering a blend of history, adventure, and warm hospitality.

Nestled in the eastern part of Afghanistan, Khost is a city brimming with cultural heritage and natural beauty. Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, Khost offers an authentic Afghan experience that is both unique and enriching. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush landscapes, this destination is perfect for those who seek adventure and tranquility in equal measure. Khost is renowned for its vibrant bazaars where you can find exquisite local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and tantalizing Afghan cuisine. The hospitality of the local people is unparalleled, making visitors feel welcome and at home. The city’s historical sites, such as the ancient forts and mosques, provide a glimpse into Afghanistan’s rich past and architectural prowess. For nature enthusiasts, Khost offers numerous hiking trails and scenic spots. The nearby Spera district is famed for its stunning valleys and crystal-clear streams. Whether you are exploring the city or venturing into the countryside, Khost promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Dress modestly and respect local customs to ensure a pleasant interaction with the locals.
Visit the local bazaars early in the morning for the best selection of goods and a more immersive experience.
Hire a local guide to explore the historical sites and natural attractions for an informative and safer journey.
Carry cash, as credit card facilities might not be widely available.
Learn a few basic phrases in Pashto or Dari to communicate more easily with the locals.

Explore Khost: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Khost

Top-rated picks

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خوست منار KHOST MINAR

Discover Khost Minar, a mesmerizing historical landmark in Afghanistan, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.

4.2

استاد حکيم تڼيوال پارک Ostad Hakim Taniwal Park

Experience thrilling rides and serene gardens at Khost's cultural hub, Ostad Hakim Taniwal Park, a symbol of community and resilience.

4.4

Yaqubi Masjid

Discover the spiritual heart of Khost at Yaqubi Masjid, an architectural marvel blending Islamic tradition and local artistry on Main Street.

4.4

National Park ملي پارک

Discover Khost's natural beauty: Hiking, wildlife, and serene landscapes await at National Park, a perfect escape in Afghanistan.

4.0

Best landmarks in Khost

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Herat Central Blue Mosque

Discover the mesmerizing Herat Central Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture showcasing centuries of artistry and cultural heritage.

4.6

Herat Citadel

Explore the ancient Herat Citadel: a journey through Afghan history, offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into a storied past.

4.5

Babur Garden

Discover Kabul's Mughal heritage at Babur Garden, a serene terraced oasis and the final resting place of Emperor Babur.

4.5

Band-e-Amir National Park

Discover Afghanistan's first national park: a stunning landscape of turquoise lakes, dramatic canyons, and unique geological formations in the Hindu Kush.

4.6

Best restaurants in Khost

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Bukhara Restaurant

Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Bukhara Restaurant in Kabul – where every dish tells a story.

4.3

Ziyafat Restaurant

Experience authentic Afghani flavors at Ziyafat Restaurant in Kabul - where tradition meets taste.

4.0

Naseeb Restaurant (رستورانت نصیب)

Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Naseeb Restaurant in Kabul - where every dish tells a story.

4.1

Bocaccio Italian Restaurant

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Bocaccio Restaurant in Kabul's vibrant Wazir Akbar Khan district - where every bite tells a story.

4.1

Best bars in Khost

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خوست دولتي ګودام

Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at خوست دولتي ګودام, a must-visit restaurant in Khost offering traditional flavors and warm hospitality.

4.2

Afghan Star Restaurant

Discover authentic Afghan flavors and warm hospitality at Afghan Star Restaurant in Khost, a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

4.1

استاد حکيم تڼيوال پارک Ostad Hakim Taniwal Park

Experience family fun and natural beauty at Ostad Hakim Taniwal Park, a premier amusement park in Afghanistan.

4.4

حمام حاجي مير احمد

Experience the heart of Afghan culture at حمام حاجي مير احمد, a bar in Kabul offering a unique blend of traditional hospitality and local flavors.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Khost

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استاد حکيم تڼيوال پارک Ostad Hakim Taniwal Park

Experience a day of excitement and joy at Ostad Hakim Taniwal Park, Afghanistan's premier amusement park with thrilling rides and family fun.

4.4

حمام حاجي مير احمد

Experience traditional Afghan relaxation at Hajji Mir Ahmad Bathhouse, a gem of Kabul's cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

3.9

Google Internet Cafe

Experience Khost's vibrant culture at the Google Internet Cafe – your essential stop for reliable internet and local charm.

4.5

National Park ملي پارک

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of ملي پارک National Park, a hidden gem in Khost, Afghanistan.

4.0

Best shops in Khost

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سرګردان چوک Sargardan chowak

Experience the serene beauty and cultural charm of سرګردان چوک in Khost, Afghanistan, a peaceful haven for spiritual reflection.

4.1

Sakhi Gul Totalhil Pharmacy

Explore Sakhi Gul Totalhil Pharmacy in Khost for a unique shopping experience that reflects local culture and offers essential goods.

3.9

Afzal Khosti Medical Store

Explore Khost with confidence, knowing Afzal Khosti Medical Store provides all your essential health needs in one convenient location.

5.0

Naimi Gaz Station

Explore local culture at Naimi Gaz Station, a vibrant shopping hub in Khost, Afghanistan, offering traditional snacks and unique products.

3.9

Explore Khost on the Map

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

Khost Essentials

Khost is located in the southeastern part of Afghanistan. The nearest major airport is Kabul International Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Kabul, you can take a domestic flight to Khost Airport, which operates on a limited schedule. Alternatively, you can travel by road, which is a 4 to 5-hour journey. It is advisable to hire a private car or arrange for a local guide, as public transportation options are limited and the road conditions can vary.
Within Khost, transportation options are relatively limited. Taxis are available and can be hired for short trips around the city. It's important to negotiate the fare in advance. For longer journeys, consider hiring a private car and driver. Public buses are infrequent and may not be the most reliable option for tourists.
The official currency in Afghanistan is the Afghan Afghani (AFN). Credit cards are not widely accepted in Khost, so it is essential to carry cash. ATMs may be available in the city, but it is advisable to withdraw sufficient funds before arriving in Khost. Ensure you have smaller denominations, as larger bills can be difficult to break in smaller shops and markets.
Khost has its security challenges, and it is crucial to stay informed about the current situation. Avoid traveling alone, especially at night, and stay away from areas with high crime rates. Some neighborhoods may be more prone to targeting tourists, so it is essential to seek advice from local contacts or your accommodation provider. Always remain vigilant and keep your belongings secure.
In case of emergency, dial 119 for police assistance. The local hospital in Khost can provide medical care, but it is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available, but it is wise to carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications.
Fashion: Do dress conservatively, covering your arms and legs. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful to fellow passengers. Don't take photos without permission. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Men should avoid shaking hands with women unless initiated by the woman. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, but be cautious of street food. Don't eat or drink in public during Ramadan.
To experience Khost like a local, visit the bustling bazaars where you can find traditional Afghan goods and handicrafts. Engage with locals, as they are often hospitable and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the Khost City Park, a popular spot for families and social gatherings. For an authentic experience, try the local cuisine at family-owned restaurants.

When is the best time to visit Khost?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Khost

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 Khost. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloسلام
  [Salam]
- Goodbyeخداحافظ
  [Khuda Hafiz]
- Yesبله
  [Bale]
- Noنه
  [Na]
- Please/You're welcomeلطفا/خوش آمدید
  [Lotfan/Khosh amadid]
- Thank youتشکر
  [Tashakur]
- Excuse me/Sorryببخشید
  [Bebakhshid]
- How are you?چطور هستید؟
  [Chetor hastid?]
- Fine. And you?خوبم. شما چطورید؟
  [Khubam. Shoma chetorid?]
- Do you speak English?آیا انگلیسی صحبت می‌کنید؟
  [Aya Englisi sohbat mikonid?]
- I don't understandمن نمی‌فهمم
  [Man nemifahmam]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseلطفا منو را نشان بدهید
  [Lotfan menu ra neshan bedahid]
- I don't eat meatمن گوشت نمی‌خورم
  [Man gusht nemikhoram]
- Cheers!به سلامتی!
  [Be salamati!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseلطفا می‌خواهم پرداخت کنم
  [Lotfan mikhaham pardakht konam]
- Help!کمک!
  [Komak!]
- Go away!برو برو!
  [Boro boro!]
- Call the Police!پلیس را صدا بزنید!
  [Polis ra seda bezanid!]
- Call a doctor!دکتر را صدا بزنید!
  [Doktor ra seda bezanid!]
- I'm lostمن گم شده‌ام
  [Man gom shode-am]
- I'm illمن بیمار هستم
  [Man bimaar hastam]
- I'd like to buy...می‌خواهم بخرم...
  [Mikham bekharam...]
- I'm just lookingفقط دارم نگاه می‌کنم
  [Faghat daram negah mikonam]
- How much is it?این چقدر است؟
  [In chand ast?]
- That's too expensiveاین خیلی گران است
  [In khayli geran ast]
- Can you lower the price?آیا می‌توانید قیمت را پایین بیاورید؟
  [Aya 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)ده و نیم
  [Dah o nim]
- Morningصبح
  [Subh]
- Afternoonبعد از ظهر
  [Bad az zuhr]
- Eveningعصر
  [Asr]
- Yesterdayدیروز
  [Dirooz]
- Todayامروز
  [Emrooz]
- Tomorrowفردا
  [Farda]
- 1یک
  [Yek]
- 2دو
  [Do]
- 3سه
  [Se]
- 4چهار
  [Chahar]
- 5پنج
  [Panj]
- 6شش
  [Shesh]
- 7هفت
  [Haft]
- 8هشت
  [Hasht]
- 9نه
  [No]
- 10ده
  [Dah]
- Where's a/the...?کجا ... است؟
  [Koja ... ast?]
- What's the address?آدرس چیست؟
  [Adres 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)?بعدی (اتوبوس) کی می‌رسد؟
  [Ba'di (otobus) ki miresad?]
- A ticket (to ....)یک بلیط (به ....)
  [Yek belit (be ....)]

History of Khost

Khost, a city located in southeastern Afghanistan, boasts a rich history that dates back to antiquity. The region was once part of the ancient Persian Empire and later influenced by the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by various ancient civilizations, contributing to its diverse cultural heritage.
With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Khost became part of the Islamic Caliphate. The Islamic influence is visible in the region's architecture, cultural practices, and language. During this period, Khost served as a significant center for trade and learning, attracting scholars and merchants from various parts of the Islamic world.
In the 10th and 12th centuries, Khost came under the rule of the Ghaznavid and Ghurid dynasties. These dynasties were instrumental in spreading Persian culture and Islamic art across the region. The influence of these dynasties can still be seen in the architectural ruins and historical sites scattered around Khost.
During the 16th century, Khost was incorporated into the expanding Mughal Empire. The Mughals left a lasting impact on the city's architecture and cultural landscape. In the 18th century, Khost became part of the Durrani Empire, founded by Ahmad Shah Durrani, which laid the foundations of modern Afghanistan.
Throughout the 19th century, Khost was a focal point of resistance against British colonial forces during the Anglo-Afghan wars. The region played a crucial role in the Afghan struggle for independence. In the 20th century, Khost experienced significant political and social changes, including the impact of the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s.
In recent decades, Khost has seen substantial development and modernization, despite ongoing conflicts. The city is known for its vibrant markets, traditional Pashtun culture, and educational institutions. Efforts to rebuild and preserve Khost's historical sites continue, reflecting the resilience and enduring spirit of its people.