Background

Shahr-e Zohak: The Red City of Bamiyan

4.3 (3)

Explore the historic Red City of Shahr-e Zohak in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's Silk Road past.

Explore the dramatic ruins of Shahr-e Zohak, an ancient fortress also known as the Red City, located 9 kilometers east of Bamiyan. Perched at the confluence of the Bamiyan and Kalu rivers, this historic site offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Afghanistan's turbulent past along the ancient Silk Road [2].

A brief summary to SHAHR-E-ZOHAK

  • RXGM+75F, Tupchi, AF

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain, as the path to the fortress is steep and rocky [2].
  • Visit during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) for moderate temperatures and pleasant hiking conditions [3].
  • Hire a local guide in Bamiyan to learn about the history and legends associated with Shahr-e Zohak [2].
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities available at the site [2].
  • Stay on marked paths and exercise caution due to the potential presence of landmines in the surrounding area [2].
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Kakrak valley caves

Kakrak Valley Caves: Echoes of Bamiyan's Buddhist Past
Attraction

Historical Gholghola City

Historical Gholghola City: The City of Screams
Attraction

کوتل چوونی Old Russian Tanks

Kotal-e Chawni: Old Russian Tanks

Unlock the Best of SHAHR-E-ZOHAK

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bamiyan Bazaar, shared taxis are available for around 150 AFS per person [2, 6]. Ask to be dropped off at Tupchi village or the Shashpul checkpoint [2]. From the checkpoint, it's approximately a 1 km walk to the village of Kalu, where the trail to Shahr-e Zohak begins [2]. A Bamiyan Entrance Ticket, costing 300 AFS, is required and will be checked by soldiers at the Shashpul checkpoint [2, 6]. Purchase this ticket beforehand from the Director of Information & Culture in Bamiyan, located in front of the Buddha Niches [2].

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Bamiyan city center, the most practical way to reach Shahr-e Zohak is by taxi or hired car [2]. Negotiate a round-trip fare with the driver, typically ranging from 500 to 1,000 AFS [2, 6, 7]. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes to Tupchi village or the Shashpul checkpoint, located near the confluence of the Bamiyan and Kalu rivers [2]. Ensure the driver knows to drop you at Shashpul checkpoint [2]. From there, it's a 1 km walk to the base of the fortress [2]. A Bamiyan Entrance Ticket, costing 300 AFS, is required and will be checked by soldiers at the Shashpul checkpoint [2]. Purchase this ticket beforehand from the Director of Information & Culture in Bamiyan, located in front of the Buddha Niches [2].

  • Walking

    The final ascent to the Shahr-e Zohak ruins from Kalu village involves a steep, approximately 1km uphill walk [2]. Follow the trail marked with red stones, taking extreme caution not to stray from the path due to potential landmines [2]. The walk takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on fitness level [2]. There are no costs associated with walking, but the 300 AFS Bamiyan Entrance Ticket is still required [2].

Discover more about SHAHR-E-ZOHAK

Shahr-e Zohak, or the Red City, is an ancient fortress located in the Bamiyan Province of Afghanistan, approximately 9 kilometers east of Bamiyan city [2]. The name 'Red City' comes from the reddish hue of the rock foundations [2]. Strategically positioned at the confluence of the Bamiyan and Kalu rivers, it served as a crucial defensive site for the Bamiyan Valley for centuries [2, 5].Its origins trace back to the 6th century AD, with significant development during the Ghorid dynasty in the 12th and 13th centuries [2]. The fortress was built by the Ghorids on foundations dating back to the 6th century [2]. The name 'Zohak' is derived from a mythical serpent-haired king in Persian literature [2, 5]. The fortress commands a panoramic view of the valley, allowing its occupants to monitor and control access to this vital region [2]. Its location made it a key point along the ancient Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange [2, 3].Shahr-e Zohak flourished as a center of power and defense under the Ghorids, housing a population of around 3,000 people within its walls [2, 6]. The fortress featured sophisticated fortifications, including ramparts, watchtowers, and a citadel protected by multiple layers of walls [2, 5]. In 1221, the Mongol army led by Genghis Khan besieged the city [2]. During the siege, Mutukhan, Genghis Khan's grandson, was killed by an arrow shot from within the fortress [2, 6]. Enraged, Genghis Khan ordered the complete destruction of Shahr-e Zohak and the massacre of its inhabitants [2, 6]. Legend says the red color of the city's stones comes from the blood spilled during this event [2, 6].Despite the destruction, Shahr-e Zohak was later rebuilt but never regained its former glory [2]. Today, the ruins offer a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich history [3]. Exploring the site allows visitors to imagine life within the fortress and appreciate its strategic importance [2]. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, showcasing the Bamiyan Valley and the confluence of the rivers [2]. Visitors should exercise caution and stick to marked paths due to potential landmines [2].

Explore the best of what SHAHR-E-ZOHAK has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



Attraction

Explore the mythical Dragon Valley in Bamyan, Afghanistan: a geological wonder steeped in legend, offering stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

Dragon Valley
Attraction

Explore the ancient Kakrak Valley Caves in Bamyan, Afghanistan, a historical landmark showcasing Buddhist artistry amidst stunning Silk Road landscapes.

Kakrak valley caves

Select Currency