Background

Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar: Kabul's Historic Citadel

Explore Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar, Kabul's historic fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich heritage.

4.2

Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar, or Bala Hissar, is an ancient fortress in Kabul, Afghanistan, dating back to the 5th century AD [2, 5, 15]. Meaning 'High Fortress,' it offers panoramic city views and has served as a strategic and symbolic location throughout history [2, 5].

A brief summary to Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar

  • G54R+V9C, Kabul - Gardez Hwy, Kabul, AF

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fortress requires walking on uneven terrain [2].
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and capture the best lighting for photographs [2].
  • Consider hiring a local guide who can share stories and insights about the fortress's history [2].
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar using public transportation, start from a major transportation hub in Kabul [2]. Take a local bus or shared taxi heading towards the Kabul - Gardez Highway [2]. Inform the driver that you want to visit Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar, and they will drop you off close to the location [2]. The bus fare to Kabul typically costs around 250 AFN [2].

  • Taxi

    Hire a taxi from anywhere in Kabul to Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar [2]. Negotiate the fare beforehand, and you can expect to pay around $10 USD (or equivalent in AFN) per pick up within the central parts of Kabul [2]. Provide the driver with the coordinates G54R+V9C or ask for the Kabul - Gardez Highway [2].

Unlock the Best of Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar

Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar, translating to "High Fortress," is a historic citadel located in southern Kabul, Afghanistan [2, 5]. Believed to have been constructed around the 5th century AD, this ancient structure sits at the tail end of the Kuh-e-Shēr Darwāzah mountain, offering commanding views of the city [2]. Throughout its history, Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar has been a strategic and symbolic location [2]. It was conquered by Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, in 1504 and later became the primary residence for the governor of Kabul Subah under Akbar [2]. Mughal emperors, including Jahangir and Shah Jahan, resided within its walls, adding palaces, audience halls, and gardens [2]. The fortress played a significant role during the Anglo-Afghan Wars [2, 5]. In the 19th century, parts of the structure were destroyed by British forces but were later rebuilt [2, 5]. It also witnessed conflict during the Afghan civil war in 1994, sustaining damage [2]. Today, Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar is undergoing extensive reconstruction, with efforts focused on preserving its historical integrity and making it accessible to visitors [2, 5]. The Ministry of Information and Culture, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Cultural Foundation, is working to restore the fortress to its former glory [2, 5]. Visitors to Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar can explore its ancient architecture, including its formidable walls and intricate gateways [2]. The fortress provides a unique glimpse into Kabul's storied past and the enduring spirit of its people [2, 3, 4].

Popular Experiences near Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar

Popular Hotels near Qale'H-Ye-Balahissar

Select Currency