Things to Do in Kabul

About Kabul

located in a valley surrounded by the Hindu Kush mountains, Kabul stands as a testament to resilience and enduring spirit. This ancient crossroads of civilizations carries within its dust-laden streets the echoes of countless stories – from the Silk Road merchants who once traversed its bazaars to the generations who have called this city home. Here, the aroma of fresh naan mingles with the calls to prayer that drift across neighborhoods where children play in courtyards and elders gather over endless cups of green tea. Despite decades of upheaval, Kabul's soul remains unbroken, revealed in the warmth of its people, the intricate beauty of its traditional crafts, and the impressive backdrop of snow-capped peaks that frame the city like ancient guardians. This is a place where history lives not in museums, but in the daily rhythm of life itself.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Travel within Kabul primarily relies on taxis and private vehicles. Negotiate taxi fares beforehand (typically 100-300 AFN for city trips). Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. Consider hiring a local driver through your accommodation for day trips outside the city.

Money: The Afghan Afghani (AFN) is the local currency. US dollars are widely accepted but bring small denominations. Banking services are extremely limited, so carry sufficient cash. Exchange money only at authorized dealers or your hotel to avoid counterfeit bills.

Cultural Respect: Dress conservatively with long sleeves and pants; women should cover their hair with a headscarf. Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques. Avoid public displays of affection and photographing people, especially women, without explicit permission. Friday is the holy day.

Food Safety: Stick to thoroughly cooked foods served hot. Avoid raw vegetables and fruits you can't peel yourself. Drink only bottled or boiled water. Try local specialties like kabuli pulao and mantu at established restaurants recommended by your hotel or guide.

When to Visit

Kabul experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) offers the most pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and minimal rainfall (30-50mm monthly). This is peak season with accommodation prices 40-60% higher than off-season rates. The famous Nawroz (Persian New Year) celebrations occur in March. Summer (June-August) brings hot, dry conditions with temperatures reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F) and virtually no rainfall. While accommodation is 20-30% cheaper, the heat can be intense for sightseeing. Autumn (September-November) provides another excellent window with comfortable temperatures of 10-20°C (50-68°F) and clear skies, though prices increase by 30-40% during this popular period. Winter (December-February) sees cold temperatures dropping to -5 to 10°C (23-50°F) with occasional snowfall (20-40mm monthly precipitation). This off-peak season offers the lowest prices but limited daylight and potential weather delays. Cultural travelers should consider spring for festivals, while budget-conscious visitors might prefer the summer months despite the heat.