Balkh: The Mother of Cities
Explore Balkh, the 'Mother of Cities': A Silk Road gem with a 2500-year history, ancient ruins, and Islamic shrines near Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan.
Balkh, an ancient city in northern Afghanistan near Mazar-i-Sharif, boasts a history stretching back over 2,500 years [4, 8]. Once a vital Silk Road hub and a center of Zoroastrianism and Buddhism, it was known as 'the mother of cities' [6, 9, 10]. Today, it offers a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage [4, 8].
A brief summary to Balkh
- M4V9+4W5, Mazar-i-Sharif, Posht-e-Mazar, AF
Local tips
- Balkh is best visited as a day trip from Mazar-i-Sharif. [11]
- Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.
- Engage with locals in the bazaars for an authentic experience.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay updated on travel advisories.
Getting There
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Shared Taxi
From Mazar-i-Sharif, the most common way to reach Balkh is by shared taxi [11, 14]. These can be found at designated taxi stands in Mazar-i-Sharif [11]. A seat in a shared taxi to Balkh costs approximately 50 AFN [11]. The journey covers around 24 km (15 miles) and takes about 30-45 minutes [11]. Be prepared for a potentially crowded ride [14].
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Private Taxi
A private taxi from Mazar-i-Sharif to Balkh offers a more comfortable and direct option [11]. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey. Expect to pay around 800 AFN for a private taxi [18]. The drive is relatively short, allowing you to explore Balkh's historical sites at your own pace [11].
Discover more about Balkh
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Balkh
0.0 km
Explore Balkh, the 'Mother of Cities': A Silk Road gem with a 2500-year history, ancient ruins, and Islamic shrines near Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan.
Let's go Afghanistan
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Explore Mazar-i-Sharif: Discover the Blue Mosque, ancient history, and vibrant culture in northern Afghanistan.
مزارشریف
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Discover Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan: A city of ancient wonders, spiritual significance, and vibrant culture, home to the breathtaking Blue Mosque and the historic city of Balkh.
Rabia Balkhi Memorial یادگاه رابعه بلخی
1.7 km
Explore the legacy of Rabia Balkhi, a 10th-century Persian poet, at her memorial in Mazar-i-Sharif, a symbol of Afghan culture and resilience.
Buzkashi Ground
1.9 km
Experience the thrill of Buzkashi at Mazar-i-Sharif's iconic ground, a vibrant hub of Afghan tradition, horsemanship, and cultural celebration.
Mazar i sharif
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Discover Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan: A city of faith, history, and stunning blue-tiled architecture, home to the revered Shrine of Ali.
Mawla Ali Shopping Center- مارکیت مولاعلی
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Mazar-i-Sharif at Mawla Ali Shopping Center, offering a mix of traditional crafts and modern goods.
Baba Qamber Masjed
2.7 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Mazar-i-Sharif at Baba Qamber Masjed, a serene mosque embodying Afghanistan's rich Islamic heritage.
مجتمع ورزشی و تفرحیی شناوران Swimmers
2.8 km
Stay fit and connect with the local community at Swimmers Gym in Mazar-i-Sharif, a modern fitness hub open daily for locals and tourists!
Almas Wedding Hall سالون عروسی الماس
3.4 km
Celebrate love in style at Almas Wedding Hall, Mazar-i-Sharif's premier venue for unforgettable weddings and special events. Experience elegance and meticulous attention to detail.
آیسکریم ویژه Icecream vizha
3.6 km
Indulge in delightful ice cream at آیسکریم ویژه Icecream vizha in Mazar-i-Sharif, offering a sweet taste of Afghan hospitality and local flavors.
مسجد پارسا اول
3.8 km
Discover Parsa No1 Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif: A serene landmark embodying Afghanistan's Islamic heritage and architectural artistry.
گذر سرپل ها
3.8 km
Discover the cultural and architectural beauty of Gazar Serpal Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif, a serene reflection of Islamic heritage.
Masjed Jame Hazrat e Abulfazl
3.9 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Masjed Jame Hazrat-e Abulfazl, a cultural gem in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, showcasing stunning Islamic architecture.
Kefayat Super Market
4.0 km
Experience Afghan culture and find everyday essentials at Kefayat Super Market in Mazar-i-Sharif. Open daily, a vibrant hub for locals and travelers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rawza e Mubarak Museum
2.0 km
Discover Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage at the Rawza e Mubarak Museum in Mazar-i-Sharif.
Khalid Bin Walid Family Park
2.3 km
Escape to Khalid Bin Walid Family Park in Mazar-i-Sharif for recreation, relaxation, and a vibrant community atmosphere for all ages.
Khaled Ibne Walid Family Park
2.3 km
Escape to Khaled Ibne Walid Family Park in Mazar-i-Sharif for a serene retreat amidst lush greenery and vibrant cultural celebrations. A must-visit urban oasis.
Kamgar Garden باغ کامگار
2.7 km
Escape to tranquility at Kamgar Garden in Mazar-i-Sharif, a beautiful oasis offering a serene retreat and a glimpse into Afghan culture.
Qala-i-Jangi
12.4 km
Explore Qala-i-Jangi, a 19th-century Afghan fortress near Mazar-i-Sharif, and witness a powerful symbol of resilience and a poignant reminder of the nation's turbulent history.
Bandar Sheberghan City
21.0 km
Explore Bandar Sheberghan City, a historic Silk Road hub in northern Afghanistan, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and archaeological wonders.
Bagh-e Umomi
21.1 km
Discover Bagh-e Umomi in Balkh: A historic Persian-style garden offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into local Afghan culture.
Ancient Wall of Balkh
21.4 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Balkh, Afghanistan, where history and culture converge along the legendary Silk Road. Explore the enduring legacy of the 'Mother of Cities'.
Archaeological Museum
63.0 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan at the Termez Archaeological Museum, where history comes alive through ancient artifacts and exhibits.
Al Hakim At-Termizi Mausoleum
64.0 km
Explore the spiritual legacy of Al-Hakim at-Termizi, a revered Sufi theologian, at this historic mausoleum complex near Termez, Uzbekistan.
Kokildor-Ota Khanaka
65.1 km
Explore Kokildor-Ota Khanaka, a serene mausoleum in Uzbekistan's Surxondaryo Region, rich in history and tranquility for every traveler.
Kirk Kiz Fortress
65.6 km
Discover the historical grandeur of Kirk Kiz Fortress in Uzbekistan, a breathtaking site steeped in ancient stories and stunning landscapes.
Sultan Saodat Mausoleum
65.6 km
Explore the Sultan Saodat Mausoleum, a stunning Islamic architectural marvel in Termez, Uzbekistan, reflecting the region's rich spiritual heritage.
Uchqizil ko'li
75.0 km
Explore Uchqizil Ko'li, a stunning lake in Uzbekistan’s Surxondaryo Region, perfect for relaxation, hiking, and experiencing local culture.
Gora Dzhanalash
91.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gora Dzhanalash in Surxondaryo, Uzbekistan – a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Musa Palow موسی پلو
0.2 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Musa Palow in Mazar-i-Sharif – famous for its delicious Afghan Palaw.
احسان پلو
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Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at Ihsan Pollo in Mazar-i-Sharif - A culinary gem blending tradition with flavor.
Blooms by Lee
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Experience authentic South African cuisine at Blooms by Lee in Mazar-i-Sharif – where culinary adventure meets local hospitality.
ذبیر شورمه برگر
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Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at ذبیر شورمه برگر in Mazar-i-Sharif – where tradition meets taste.
سالون عروسی کرستال
1.3 km
Discover elegance at Crystal Wedding Salon in Mazar-i-Sharif - where family celebrations turn into unforgettable experiences.
Mazar Pizza
1.3 km
Experience authentic Afghan flavors at Mazar Pizza – where every slice tells a story.
King Hotel
1.4 km
Savor traditional Afghan cuisine at King Hotel in Mazar-i-Sharif - where every dish tells a story.
King Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover authentic Afghan flavors at King Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif – a culinary delight waiting for you.
فردوس کنجد پلو
1.5 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at فردوس کنجد پلو in Mazar-i-Sharif – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.
خوارکه فورشی عصمت وبرادران
1.6 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at خوارکه فورشی عصمت وبرادران in Mazar-i-Sharif - a culinary journey into rich flavors.
ماهی پزی رشاد Rishad Fish Cooking
1.6 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Rishad Fish Cooking in Mazar-i-Sharif - where fresh fish meets traditional flavors.
ALBAiK BROST البیک بروست
1.6 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at ALBAiK BROST in Mazar-i-Sharif—where every bite tells a story.
رستورانت سخی زاده
1.6 km
Experience authentic Afghan cuisine at Sakhi Zada Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif – a must-visit for food lovers seeking traditional flavors.
One More Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at One More Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif - where tradition meets taste.
Bilal Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover authentic Afghan cuisine at Bilal Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif - a culinary treasure offering rich flavors and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KHOJANDI LTD.
0.2 km
Explore Khojandi Ltd. in Mazar-i-Sharif for unique Afghan crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of local culture.
پروتین فروشی افغان یونایتد
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Explore the authentic flavors of Afghanistan at Afghan United Protein Store in Mazar-i-Sharif, offering a diverse selection of protein-rich foods.
Salimi Store - فروشگاه سلیمی
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Explore the vibrant local culture and craftsmanship at Salimi Store, a unique shopping destination in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan.
چادر فروشیحاجی بابه ملا و پسران
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خوراکه فروشی کربلایی امین
0.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Afghanistan at خوراکه فروشی کربلایی امین, a delightful grocery store in Mazar-i-Sharif.
خدمات عیار دیش آنتن مهمند
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Discover the vibrant local culture at خدمات عیار دیش آنتن مهمند in Mazar-i-Sharif, where unique products and friendly service await every visitor.
عمده فروشی سخی زاده
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Discover the artistry of Afghanistan at Sakhi Zada Bag Shop in Mazar-i-Sharif, where every bag tells a unique story of culture and craftsmanship.
MoMo Agent
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Experience the essence of Afghan cuisine at MoMo Agent, a local grocery store offering fresh produce, spices, and unique culinary souvenirs.
سوپر مارکیت مهدی حیدری
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Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at سوپر مارکیت مهدی حیدری, a gourmet grocery store in Mazar-i-Sharif offering a unique culinary adventure.
تیزآب کاری قاری صالح
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Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry at Tizab Kari Qari Saleh in Mazar-i-Sharif, a true reflection of Afghan artistry and cultural heritage.
خوراکه و ظروف یکبار مصرف فروشی حاجی محمد نصیر
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Discover the charm of حاجی محمد نصیر, a local store in Mazar-i-Sharif offering quality disposable foodware and a taste of Afghan culture.
کفایت مارکیت
0.2 km
Explore Kifayat Market in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan: a lively shopping destination brimming with local culture, goods, and authentic experiences.
فروشګاه انجنیر برادران
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Afghan fashion at فروشګاه انجنیر برادران in Mazar-i-Sharif, where tradition meets contemporary style.
مرکز شهر
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and shopping delights at the heart of Mazar-i-Sharif, where tradition meets modernity in a bustling city center.
Yawar buisness market مارکیت تجارتی یاور
0.2 km
Discover the authentic shopping experience at Yawar Business Market in Mazar-i-Sharif, where local culture and vibrant commerce come together.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
شتار
0.2 km
Experience the lively ambiance of شتار, a premier bar in Mazar-i-Sharif, where local culture meets modern entertainment.
Maqamat Cafe مقامات کافه
0.8 km
Experience flavorful Afghan cuisine in a cozy setting at Maqamat Cafe in Mazar-i-Sharif.
سیرت رستورانت
1.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Sirat Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif, where authentic dishes meet warm hospitality.
Karim Mart
1.4 km
Discover the essence of Afghan culture at Karim Mart in Mazar-i-Sharif, your go-to supermarket for local delicacies and everyday essentials.
قصابی محمد بشیر قاری زاده
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at قصابی محمد بشیر قاری زاده, Mazar-i-Sharif's unique bar blending local culture with a lively atmosphere.
رستورانت سخی زاده
1.6 km
Discover the rich flavors of Afghan cuisine at Sakhizadeh Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif, a culinary haven for tourists seeking authentic dining experiences.
رستورانت برادران
1.6 km
Experience authentic Afghan flavors at Brothers Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif, where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Coffee Venus
1.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of Coffee Venus, a top espresso bar in Mazar-i-Sharif, where every cup tells a story of local tradition and passion.
Barat hotel
2.1 km
Experience the charm of Mazar-i-Sharif at Barat Hotel - a cozy hostel perfect for exploring the rich culture and history of Afghanistan.
Rahat Hotel
2.5 km
Discover Rahat Hotel in Mazar-i-Sharif: A blend of comfort and Afghan hospitality awaits in this vibrant city.
ترکمن ایشلکی Turkmen Eshliki
2.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Turkmen cuisine at Turkmen Eshliki in Mazar-i-Sharif, a culinary haven for food lovers seeking local flavors.
قلیون سرا قنبر Qelion Sara-e Qambar
2.7 km
Discover the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Qelion Sara-e Qambar, a top café in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, perfect for a cultural dining experience.
Restaurant Mazar Darbar (رستورانت مزار دربار)
2.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan at Mazar Darbar, a restaurant that embodies traditional Afghan hospitality and culinary art.
کارته آریانابلاکاولکوچهچهار
3.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Afghan cuisine at کارته آریانابلاکاولکوچهچهار in Mazar-i-Sharif, where authenticity meets hospitality.
حکیم رستورانت
3.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Afghan cuisine at Hakim Restaurant in Mazar-i-Sharif, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
