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Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine: A Spiritual Oasis

Discover the spiritual heart of Herat at the Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine, a stunning testament to Timurid artistry and Islamic heritage.

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The Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine in Herat is a stunning Timurid-era complex dedicated to the revered Sufi saint, Khwaja Abdullah Ansari. Known as the Pir-e-Herat (Sage of Herat), Ansari was a mystic, poet, and Islamic scholar. The shrine is a significant pilgrimage site reflecting Afghanistan's rich cultural and religious heritage [4, 5].

A brief summary to Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine

  • 96FR+W8H, Khaja Abdullah Ansari Rd, Herat, District 8, AF

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting the shrine, ensuring clothing covers shoulders and knees.
  • Photography may be restricted in certain areas; always ask permission before taking pictures.
  • Consider visiting during religious festivals for a vibrant cultural experience.
  • Learn a few basic Dari phrases to enhance interactions with locals.
  • Be mindful and respectful of those who are there for prayer and spiritual reflection.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Herat city, a taxi is a convenient way to reach the Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine. Taxis are readily available, and the ride to Gazur Gah, where the shrine is located, is relatively short. A typical taxi ride from the city center to the shrine costs approximately 500 AFN, depending on traffic and negotiation [8, 9, 15]. Ensure to agree on the fare before starting the journey.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses or shared taxis (also known as 'van taxis') offer a more economical option to reach the shrine. These can be found at major transport hubs in Herat. Inquire about routes heading towards Gazur Gah. The fare for a shared taxi is significantly lower, usually around 50 AFN [8, 9]. Be prepared for a potentially crowded ride and a short walk from the drop-off point to the shrine.

  • Walking

    For those staying in accommodations closer to the northeast of Herat, walking to the shrine is a viable option. From the city center, it's approximately a few kilometers to Gazur Gah. Follow Khaja Abdullah Ansari Road northeast out of the city. The walk offers a chance to experience the local surroundings. Be aware of traffic and weather conditions. No costs are involved.

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Discover more about Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine

Nestled in the village of Gazur Gah, a few kilometers northeast of Herat, the Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine stands as a beacon of spiritual and architectural significance [4, 6]. This funerary compound, also known as the Shrine at Gazur Gah, is dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, a revered mystic, poet, and Islamic scholar of the 11th and 12th centuries [4, 5, 6]. Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, often called "Pir-e Herat," was known for his profound spiritual teachings and devotion to Islam, making this shrine a vital pilgrimage site [4]. The shrine's history dates back to Ansari's death in 1088 [4]. However, the main structure was commissioned by the Timurid ruler Shah Rukh and completed in 1425 by the architect Qavam al-Din Shirazi [4, 6, 11]. The Timurids, who reigned after the collapse of the Mongol empire, infused the shrine with artistic styles influenced by their Asiatic traditions [4, 11]. The complex has undergone repairs and restorations, most notably by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture since 2005, ensuring its preservation for future generations [4, 6, 11]. The architecture of the Khwaja Abdullah Ansari Shrine is a testament to Timurid artistry [4, 6]. The primary entrance portal is a semi-domed, five-sided structure leading to a *dihliz*, or threshold [4, 6, 11]. The west-facing entrance facade showcases glazed turquoise and black brickwork in a *banai* style, laid in a chevron pattern [4]. Niches flank the doorway, and windows above allow light to filter into the second floor [4, 11]. The shrine centers around a rectangular four-iwan courtyard, housing Ansari's tomb among numerous headstones [4, 6]. Inside the shrine, visitors will find intricate tile work, calligraphy, and Quranic inscriptions adorning the walls [4, 5]. The tomb of Ansari is enclosed in a marble and gold enclosure, where pilgrims offer flowers and prayers [4]. The complex also includes a mosque and a library containing a collection of manuscripts and rare books [4]. Beyond the main shrine, the complex features several notable structures, including the Zarnigar Khana (Gilded Room) and the Namakdan Pavilion, each showcasing unique architectural elements and decorations [4, 6, 11]. The shrine is a hub of Sufi practices and spiritual gatherings, where devotees recite poetry, offer prayers, and reflect on the teachings of Khwaja Ansari [4].

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