Things to Do in Kabul

About Kabul

Nestled in a valley between the Hindu Kush mountains, Kabul stands as one of the world's oldest living cities, where ancient trade routes and civilizations have intersected for over 3,500 years. The Afghan capital weaves together a rich tapestry of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences, creating a unique cultural landscape where traditional tea houses share streets with modern buildings, and the calls to prayer echo across neighborhoods that have witnessed millennia of human stories.

Travel Tips

• Only travel around Kabul with a trusted local guide or reputable private driver arranged through your hotel, as public transportation isn't recommended for visitors and taxi services can be unreliable.

• Women should carry a headscarf (hijab) at all times and wear loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees; local dress standards are conservative and should be strictly respected.

• Carry small U.S. dollar bills alongside Afghanis, as many vendors prefer dollars and ATMs are unreliable; ensure your dollars are crisp and undamaged as torn bills are often rejected.

• Due to frequent power outages in Kabul, keep a portable power bank charged and download offline maps before arrival; also save your hotel's location and contact details in multiple formats.

When to Visit

# When to Visit Kabul, Afghanistan

Current Travel Advisory: Most governments strongly advise against all travel to Afghanistan due to security concerns. This information is provided for contextual purposes only.

The optimal time to visit Kabul is during spring (March through May) when temperatures range from 10-20°C, the surrounding Hindu Kush mountains display vibrant wildflowers, and Nowruz (Persian New Year, March 21) transforms the city with bustling bazaars, traditional music, and families picnicking at Babur Gardens. Autumn (September through November) offers similarly pleasant 15-22°C weather with crystal-clear skies perfect for viewing the city's mountain backdrop, though you'll miss the greenery of spring as the landscape turns golden-brown. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat reaching 32-35°C and occasional dust storms, but also Eid al-Adha celebrations (timing varies by lunar calendar) when the city pulses with activity, though many shops close for the holiday. Winter (December-February) sees freezing temperatures from -5 to 5°C with occasional snowfall that blankets the Shahr-e Naw district beautifully, making this the quietest season with fewer visitors but many attractions operating on reduced schedules andicy roads complicating travel to sites like the Panjshir Valley.