Kandahar

Introduction

You will find Kandahar in southern Afghanistan, where it serves as the capital and largest city of the Kandahar Province. Located within the jurisdiction of the Kandahar District, the city is governed by Mayor Mullah Hekmatullah.

Before you go

Before you arrive in this southern Afghan hub, prepare to engage with a culture that values humor, history, and geopolitics. You will find the local population primarily composed of Pashtuns from various tribes, alongside smaller communities of Tajiks, Turkmens, Uzbeks, Hazaras, and Baloch who have lived together harmoniously for generations. As you navigate the city, blending in with the locals is a practical way to avoid unnecessary attention. While the residents are known for their hospitality and may treat you as a special diplomat, be mindful that individuals from other regions may not share this same welcoming attitude.

You should note that the city serves as an important economic center and former capital, situated near several rivers that create lush green gardens throughout the landscape. The Aino Mina section in the east is noted for being one of the safer areas in southern Afghanistan and houses the region's most advanced hospital.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air via Kandahar International Airport, which hosts flights from Dubai on specific days of the week. Domestic flights connect the city to Kabul and Herat. While flights are also operated by the UN and ICRC, these are restricted to staff and approved organizations.

If you prefer to travel by road, the A01 highway provides a link between Kandahar and Kabul. Other routes include the highway toward Spin Boldak or the road leading to Herat, though some sections of these highways can be dangerous due to militant activity. You can also utilize the "Kabul Adda" bus station located in the affluent Aino Mina neighborhood, where buses depart for destinations such as Lashkar Gah, Zaranj, and beyond.

Getting around

You can navigate the city by hiring a taxi or renting a vehicle. When you choose to rent a vehicle, it typically includes a reliable driver, though you may arrange for a rental without a driver if you have the necessary insurance for the vehicle.

Where to stay

You can find various accommodations across different neighborhoods, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels. In the Aino Mina area, you can stay at the Afghania Restaurant and Guesthouse or the Dubai Inn, which features its own restaurant. The Armani Pashtun Hotel is also located in Aino Mina and offers breakfast and multilingual staff.

For a more central experience, several options are located along Shar-e Nau Road, including the Asman Hotel, Etemad Hotel and Restaurant, and Mirwais Hotel. You might also choose the Afghan Continental Guest House in Aino Mina or the Continental Guest House near Herat Darwaza, which provides air conditioning and internet access. The Royal Afghan Hotel is situated near Darul Maulimin and Kabul Darwaza.

Food & drink

You can explore a growing variety of dining options that primarily feature traditional Afghan cuisine. Savor local favorites such as roasted chicken, mutton, lamb, and beef, served alongside rice dishes, cooked vegetables, and fresh fruit. If you prefer international flavors, the city offers an expanding selection of fast food establishments where you can find pizzas, burgers, and various sandwiches.

For a taste of the local scene, seek out street food such as fried fish and samosas, accompanied by several styles of freshly-baked bread. While alcohol is illegal, it is not strictly enforced in the same manner as in neighboring countries. Additionally, smoking hashish is common throughout the region.

What to see and do

You can explore several historical sites throughout and surrounding the city. Visit the Mosque of the Cloak of the Prophet Mohammad, one of the holiest sites in Afghanistan, which houses a robe said to have been worn by the prophet during his night journey. In the Sarpuza neighborhood, you can find Chil Zena, though you should exercise caution when navigating its forty steps. The Kandahar Museum, located at the western end of the Eidgah Durwaza, displays paintings by Ghiyassuddin, a significant Afghan painter. Other notable landmarks include the Tomb of Ahmad Shah Durrani, the Shrine of Hassan Abdal (Baba Saab), and the Shrine of Mirwais Khan Hotak located east of the city near Etehad Mosque.

For outdoor activities, you can visit various swimming spots or enjoy a traditional family picnic trip to nearby farms in other districts. You can also visit local sports venues, including the Kandahar International Cricket Stadium in Aino Mina and the Kandahar Football Stadium in the Shahr-e Naw neighborhood. If you travel north of the city, the Dahla Dam is accessible by car.

When to go

You can experience a variety of seasonal conditions in Kandahar's semi-arid climate. If you prefer pleasant weather, spring offers a comfortable transition toward the hotter months. During autumn, you will encounter dry conditions with cooling temperatures as evening temperatures drop sharply toward the end of the season.

For those visiting during the winter, expect a cool season where most of the annual precipitation falls as rain and nighttime lows can drop well below freezing. If you travel during the summer, prepare for an extremely hot and dry environment dominated by sunny weather with very rare rainfall.

Day one, you arrive in the Kandahar District and settle into your accommodation. You can choose to stay at a guesthouse or select a room at the Dubai Inn or The Armani Pashtun Hotel.

Day two, you explore the local area of the city. You can visit the Aino Mina or find a meal at Afghania Restaurant.

Day three, you prepare for your departure from Kandahar International Airport to begin your journey toward other destinations such as Kabul or Herat.