Nuristan: The Hidden Gem of Afghanistan

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeخداحافظ
  [khodahafez]
• Yesهو
  [ho]
• Noنه
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeمهرباني
  [mehrbani]
• Thank youممنون
  [mamnoon]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعذرت خواهي
  [ma'zerat khahi]
• How are you?چطوري؟
  [chetori?]
• Fine. And you?خوبم. تو چطوري؟
  [khobam. to chetori?]
• Do you speak English?ايا انگليسي حرف ميزني؟
  [aya englisi harf mizani?]
• I don't understandنميفهمم
  [nemifahmam]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseلطفاً منو را ببينيد
  [lotfan menu ra bebinid]
• I don't eat meatمن گوشت نميخورم
  [man gosht nemikhoram]
• Cheers!صحت
  [sehat]
• I would like to pay, pleaseلطفاً پرداخت کنيد
  [lotfan pardakht konid]

• Help!کمک!
  [komak!]
• Go away!برو!
  [boro!]
• Call the Police!پليس را صدا کنيد!
  [polis ra seda konid!]
• Call a doctor!يک دکتر صدا کنيد!
  [yek doktor seda konid!]
• I'm lostگم شده ام
  [gom shode am]
• I'm illمريض هستم
  [mariz hastam]

• I'd like to buy...ميخواهم بخرم
  [mikhaham bekharam]
• I'm just lookingفقط نگاه ميکنم
  [faqat negah mikonam]
• How much is it?چند است؟
  [chand ast?]
• That's too expensiveخيلي گران است
  [kheili geran ast]
• Can you lower the price?ميتواني قيمت را پايين بياوري؟
  [mitavani gheymat ra pain biavari?]

• What time is it?چند است؟
  [chand ast?]
• It's one o'clockيک است
  [yek ast]
• Half past (10)نيمه ده
  [nimah dah]
• Morningصبح
  [sobh]
• Afternoonعصر
  [asr]
• Eveningشب
  [shab]
• Yesterdayدیروز
  [dierooz]
• Todayامروز
  [emrooz]
• Tomorrowفردا
  [farda]
• 1يک
  [yek]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3سه
  [seh]
• 4چهار
  [char]
• 5پنج
  [panj]
• 6شش
  [shesh]
• 7هفت
  [haft]
• 8هشت
  [hasht]
• 9نه
  [noh]
• 10ده
  [dah]

• Where's a/the...?کجاست؟
  [kojast?]
• What's the address?آدرس چيست؟
  [address chist?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ميتواني به من نشان دهيد؟
  [mitavani be man neshan dehid?]
• When's the next (bus)?بعدي کي ميآيد؟
  [badie key miayad?]
• A ticket (to ....)يک بليط (به ...)
  [yek bileet (be ...)]

Nuristan, historically known as Kafiristan, was named after its inhabitants, the Kafirs, who practiced an ancient form of polytheism. This region remained largely isolated from the spread of Islam for centuries, preserving its unique cultural and religious practices until the late 19th century.

In 1895-1896, Emir Abdur Rahman Khan of Afghanistan launched a military campaign to conquer Kafiristan. The region was forcibly converted to Islam, and its name was changed to Nuristan, meaning 'Land of Light,' to reflect its new Islamic faith.

Nuristan is home to several unique languages, part of the Indo-Iranian language family. These languages, including Kamkata-viri, Askunu, and Waigali, offer a glimpse into the region's intricate cultural tapestry and its historical connections to ancient Indo-Aryan civilizations.

During the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s, Nuristan became a significant battleground. The rugged terrain provided a strategic advantage to the Mujahideen fighters, who used the mountains and forests as cover against Soviet forces. The conflict had a profound impact on the local population and infrastructure.

After the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, Nuristan saw increased international attention and development efforts. However, the province has remained a hotspot for insurgent activity, making security a persistent challenge. The presence of international and Afghan military forces has led to ongoing skirmishes and instability in the region.

In recent years, there have been efforts to revive and preserve the unique cultural heritage of Nuristan. Local and international organizations are working to document traditional songs, dances, crafts, and folklore to ensure that the rich cultural legacy of this region is not lost to future generations.

Nuristan Province is located in the eastern part of Afghanistan, bordered by Pakistan on the east. The nearest major city is Kabul, which has an international airport, Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL). From Kabul, you can arrange for a private car or a 4x4 vehicle to take you to Nuristan, a journey that can take between 8 to 12 hours depending on road conditions. Keep in mind that travel within this region can be challenging and it is advisable to hire a local guide who knows the terrain and can navigate security checkpoints.

Transportation options within Nuristan are limited. The terrain is mountainous and many areas are accessible only by foot or with specialized vehicles. Locals often use donkeys or horses for transportation in remote areas. For tourists, the best way to get around is by hiring a local guide with a 4x4 vehicle. Public transportation such as buses or taxis is virtually non-existent in this region.

The official currency in Afghanistan is the Afghan Afghani (AFN). Credit card facilities are extremely limited in Nuristan, so it is essential to carry sufficient cash. ATMs are scarce and may not be reliable. It is recommended to withdraw enough cash in Kabul or another major city before heading to Nuristan.

Nuristan Province is known for its rugged terrain and remote location, but it also has security challenges. Some areas may be under the influence of militant groups. Always check current travel advisories and consult with local authorities or your embassy before traveling. Avoid traveling at night and stay within well-known and secure areas. It is crucial to have a local guide who is familiar with the area and its security situation.

In case of emergency, contact the local police or military outpost. Mobile phone coverage can be unreliable, so consider carrying a satellite phone. It is also highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For medical issues, the nearest facilities may be in Kabul, so be prepared for the possibility of a long journey to receive adequate medical care. Always have a first aid kit with you and be familiar with basic first aid procedures.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men should wear long trousers and women should cover their heads and wear loose-fitting clothing. Avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. This includes not taking photographs of religious ceremonies without permission. Public Transport: Public transport is very limited, so plan accordingly. If you use any local transport, be respectful and courteous. Greetings: Do use formal greetings, such as 'As-salamu alaykum'. A handshake is appropriate for men. Avoid physical contact with women you do not know. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine but always accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don’t eat or drink in public during Ramadan.

To experience Nuristan Province like a local, take the time to visit some of the remote villages and engage with the Nuristani people. They are known for their unique culture and hospitality. Participate in local festivals and ceremonies if you have the opportunity. Don't miss the chance to explore the natural beauty of the region, including its rivers, forests, and mountains. Hiring a local guide who can show you hidden gems and provide context to the region's history will greatly enhance your experience.