Background

Kabul: Crossroads of History and Culture

Explore Kabul: A historic capital nestled in the Hindu Kush, offering a blend of ancient culture and resilient spirit on the Silk Road.

4.3

Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, is a city steeped in over 3,500 years of history, serving as a strategic crossroads along the ancient Silk Road [3, 8]. Despite enduring conflicts, it retains its cultural heritage with gardens, bazaars, and historical sites [3].

A brief summary to Kabul

  • H644+4XQ, Kabul, AF

Local tips

  • Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution due to the ongoing security situation [16, 19].
  • Respect local customs and traditions, dressing modestly and being mindful of cultural norms [8].
  • Negotiate taxi fares in advance, as they are the most common mode of transport for visitors [4].
  • Learn a few basic Dari phrases to enhance your interactions with locals [8].
  • Check travel advisories from your home country before planning your trip [16, 19, 24].
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a common way to get around Kabul. From the Kabul International Airport, negotiate a fare to your destination in the city center. A typical fare to the central areas should be between 150 to 200 AFN, but confirm before starting your journey [4]. Be prepared to direct the driver using landmarks, as not all drivers may know specific addresses [4]. Note that there may be increased fares when departing directly from the airport [4].

  • Public Transport

    While Kabul has a public bus service, it may not be readily accessible or convenient for tourists [12, 15]. If you opt for the bus, inquire about routes and fares from locals. Be aware that buses can be crowded, and service may be irregular [12, 23]. There is a bus rapid transit (BRT) system currently under construction [21].

Unlock the Best of Kabul

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kabul

Kabul, cradled in a narrow valley of the Hindu Kush mountains, stands as Afghanistan's capital and largest city [14]. Its history stretches back over 3,500 years, marked by its pivotal role as a crossroads on the Silk Road, connecting east and west [3, 8, 14]. The city's strategic location has made it a coveted prize for empires throughout history, from the Persian Empire to Alexander the Great, the Mughals, and more recent powers [14]. Kabul's identity is woven from a rich tapestry of cultures. Emperor Babur, founder of the Mughal dynasty, loved the city for its climate and gardens, and his tomb rests in the Bagh-e Babur [8, 20]. The city boasts a number of historical gardens, bazaars, and palaces [3]. The old city center retains its traditional character, with narrow alleyways, mosques and bazaars [8]. However, Kabul has also borne the scars of war. The city suffered extensive damage during the civil wars of the 1990s and more recent conflicts [3, 8]. Despite these challenges, Kabul has experienced rapid growth since the early 2000s, becoming a city of contrasts where modern development blends with ancient traditions [8, 20]. Today, Kabul remains the heart of Afghanistan, a testament to the resilience of its people and the enduring allure of its history [8, 20].

Popular Experiences near Kabul

Popular Hotels near Kabul

Select Currency