Qala-e-Seraj: A Royal Winter Retreat

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Explore Qala-e-Seraj in Mitarlam, a beautifully restored palace with historical significance and unique early 20th-century Afghan architecture.

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Qala-e-Seraj

Qala-e-Seraj, located in Mitarlam, Laghman Province, is a historic palace built by Amir Habibullah Khan around 1912-1913 as a winter residence [3, 4]. Featuring two buildings, four towers, and a mosque, the castle underwent restoration in 2020, reviving its cultural significance [3, 7].

A brief summary to Qala-e-Seraj

Mitarlam, AF
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and comfortable exploration of the castle grounds.
Check with local authorities or tourism resources for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours and accessibility.
Dress respectfully when visiting the mosque and other religious areas within the Qala-e-Seraj complex.

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Getting There

Walking

From the center of Mitarlam, Qala-e-Seraj is accessible by walking. Head east, using the main bazaar as a reference point. The castle is located a short distance from the city center. Enquire locally for directions as you approach the outer edges of the city. There are no costs involved.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Mitarlam. A short taxi ride from the city center to Qala-e-Seraj will typically cost around 50-100 AFN. Negotiate the price before starting your journey.

Discover more about Qala-e-Seraj

Qala-e-Seraj, also known as Seraj Castle, is a palace located in Mihtarlam, the capital of Laghman Province in Afghanistan [3, 7, 14]. Constructed during the reign of Amir Habibullah Khan in 1912-1913, it served as a winter retreat for the king [3, 4]. The palace complex consists of two main buildings, four prominent towers, and a mosque, reflecting the architectural style of the early 20th century in Afghanistan [3, 7]. Over the years, Qala-e-Seraj has faced periods of neglect and damage due to violence and natural causes [7]. Recognizing its historical and cultural importance, local officials initiated a restoration project that was completed in 2020, costing 22 million Afghanis [3, 7]. The restoration aimed to preserve the castle's original features and revive its role as a cultural landmark [3, 7]. Today, Qala-e-Seraj stands as a testament to Afghanistan's rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, admire its unique design, and learn about its significance in the region's past. While some government institutions have used parts of the palace for offices, there are ongoing efforts to ensure the castle is appropriately maintained and utilized for cultural and tourism purposes [7].