Complete Travel Guide to Kabul, Afghanistan

Kabul Kabul, is the capital and largest city of Afghanistan. Located in the eastern half of the country, it is also a municipality, forming part of the Kabul Province. The city is divided for administration into 22 municipal districts. Kabul’s population was estimated in 2023 at about 4.95 million. In contemporary times, Kabul has served as Afghanistan’s political, cultural and economical center. Rapid urbanization has made it the country’s primate city and one of the largest cities in the world. Located at coordinates 34.52813°N, 69.17233°E, the city occupies a strategic position that has influenced its development throughout history. At an elevation of 1790.0 meters above sea level, Kabul benefits from unique geographic advantages that distinguish it from surrounding areas. With a population of 4273156 residents, Kabul serves as an important center for the surrounding region. The community structure of Kabul reflects traditional social organization adapted to modern circumstances. As part of Kabul province, Kabul contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that characterizes Afghanistan. The historical significance of Kabul extends beyond its current boundaries, encompassing influences that have shaped the broader region.

Historical Development of Kabul

History See also: Timeline of Kabul Map of Kabul and surroundings by the Survey of India, 1916 #Antiquity This subsection may **requirecleanup** to meet Wikipedia’s quality standards The specific problem is: **chaotic structure, contradicting information, etc.

** Please help improve this subsection if you can _( January 2018)__(Learn how and when to remove this message)_ The origin of Kabul, who built it and when, is largely unknown The Hindu Rigveda, composed between 2000 and 1500 BC and one of the four canonical texts of Hinduism, and the Avesta, the primary canon of texts of Zoroastrianism, refer to the Kabul River and to a settlement called _Kubha_.

The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life The Kabul valley was part of the Median Empire (c In 549 BC, the Median Empire was annexed by Cyrus The Great and Kabul became part the Achaemenid Empire (c.

During that period, Kabul became a center of learning for Zoroastrianism, followed by Buddhism and Hinduism An inscription on Darius the Great’s tombstone lists Kabul as one of the 29 countries of the Achaemenid Empire.

Kushan Empire When Alexander the Great annexed the Achaemenid Empire, the Kabul region came under his control After his death, his empire was seized by his general Seleucus, becoming part of the Seleucid Empire.

In 305 BC, the Seleucid Empire was extended to the Indus River which led to friction with the neighbouring Mauryan Empire The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life.

During the Mauryan period, trade flourished because of uniform weights and measures Commercial activities in Kabul connect the local community to broader regional networks while maintaining traditional trading practices.

Irrigation facilities for public use were developed leading to an increased harvest of crops People were also employed as artisans, jewelers, and carpenters The Greco-Bactrians took control of Kabul from the Mauryans in the early 2nd century BC, then lost the city to their successors in the Indo-Greek Kingdom around the mid-2nd century BC.

Buddhism was greatly patronised by these rulers and the majority of people of the city were adherents of the religion Indo-Scythians expelled the Indo-Greeks by the mid 1st century BC, but lost the city to the Kushan Empire about 100 years later.

Buddha statue at the museum in Kabul, early 1st millennium It is mentioned as _Kophes_ or _Kophene_ in some classical Greek writings The Chinese Buddhist monk Hsuan Tsang refers to the city as _Kaofu_ in the 7th century AD, which is the appellation of one of the five tribes of the Yuezhi who had migrated from across the Hindu Kush into the Kabul valley around the beginning of the Common Era.

It was conquered by Kushan Emperor Kujula Kadphises in about 45 AD and remained Kushan territory until at least the 3rd century AD The Kushans were Indo-European-speaking peoples related to the Yuezhi and based in Bactria.

Around 230 AD, the Kushans were defeated by the Sassanid Empire and replaced by Sassanid vassals known as the Indo-Sassanids During the Sassanian period, the city was referred to as “Kapul” in Pahlavi scripts.

Kapol in the Persian language means Royal (ka) Bridge (pol), The linguistic diversity of Kabul reflects centuries of cultural exchange and provides insights into the region’s complex ethnic heritage.

The historical legacy of Kabul continues to influence contemporary life through preserved traditions, architectural heritage, and cultural practices that connect current residents to their ancestral heritage. Understanding this historical context enhances appreciation for the depth and authenticity of experiences available to visitors.

Geographic Setting and Natural Environment

Geography Further information: Geography of Afghanistan Night scene in Kabul in 2016 looking northeast, with Koh-e ‘Aliabad on the left and Koh-e Asamai on the right Qargha dam and lake A view of some of the mountains that surround Kabul Kabul was situated in the eastern part of the country, 1,791 meters (5,876 feet) above sea level in a narrow valley, wedged between the Hindu Kush mountains along the Kabul River. The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. Immediately to the south of the old city are the ancient city walls and the Sher Darwaza mountain, with the Shuhadayi Salihin cemetery behind it. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. A bit further east is the ancient Bala Hissar fortress with the Kol-e Hasmat Khan lake behind it. Its location has been described as a “bowl surrounded by mountains”. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. Some of the mountains (which are called _koh_) include: Khair Khana-e Shamali, Khwaja Rawash, Shakhi Baran Tey, Chihil Sutun, Qurugh, Khwaja Razaq and Sher Darwaza. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. There are also two mountains in between urban areas to the west: Koh-e Asamai (locally known as the _Television hill_) and Ali Abad. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. Hills within the city (which are called _tapa_) include Bibi Mahro and Maranjan. The Logar River flows into Kabul from the south, joining the Kabul River not far from the city centre. The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. The city covers an area size of 1,023 square kilometres (395 sq mi), making it by far the largest in the country. The closest foreign capital cities as the crow flies are Islamabad, Dushanbe, Tashkent, New Delhi and Bishkek. Kabul is roughly equidistant between Istanbul (western Asia) and Hanoi (eastern Asia). #Climate Kabul has a continental, cold semi-arid climate (BSk), with precipitation concentrated in the winter (almost exclusively falling as snow) and spring months. Summers have very low humidity, providing some relief from the heat. Autumns feature warm afternoons and sharply cooler evenings. Winters are very cold by South Asian standards, with a subzero January daily average temperature of −2. 9 °F), mainly due to the high elevation of the city. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. Spring is the wettest time of the year. Sunny conditions dominate year- round, and the annual mean temperature is only 12. 8 °F), much lower than that of Afghanistan’s other large cities. Climate data for Kabul (1956–1983) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 18. 8) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 4. 1) Daily mean °C (°F) −2. 8) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −7.

The topographical characteristics of Kabul result from complex geological processes that have shaped the landscape over millennia. These natural features create distinct microclimates and ecological zones that support diverse plant and animal communities while influencing human settlement patterns and agricultural practices.

Water resources in the Kabul region play crucial roles in supporting both natural ecosystems and human communities. Rivers, springs, and seasonal water sources have historically determined settlement locations and continue to influence agricultural productivity and urban development patterns.

The relationship between geography and human activity in Kabul demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies developed over centuries of habitation. Local communities have learned to work with natural constraints while maximizing the advantages provided by the unique geographic setting.

Seasonal changes in the geographic character of Kabul create varying opportunities for agricultural production, transportation, and outdoor activities. Understanding these seasonal patterns helps visitors appreciate the dynamic relationship between human communities and their natural environment.

Climate Patterns and Seasonal Characteristics

#Climate Kabul has a continental, cold semi-arid climate (BSk), with precipitation concentrated in the winter (almost exclusively falling as snow) and spring months. Summers have very low humidity, providing some relief from the heat. Autumns feature warm afternoons and sharply cooler evenings. Winters are very cold by South Asian standards, with a subzero January daily average temperature of −2. 9 °F), mainly due to the high elevation of the city. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. Spring is the wettest time of the year. Sunny conditions dominate year- round, and the annual mean temperature is only 12. 8 °F), much lower than that of Afghanistan’s other large cities. Climate data for Kabul (1956–1983) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 18. 8) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 4. 1) Daily mean °C (°F) −2. 8) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −7. 7) Record low °C (°F) −25. 9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 34. 28) Average rainy days 2 3 10 11 8 1 2 1 1 2 4 3 48 Average snowy days 7 6 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 20 Average relative humidity (%) 68 70 65 61 48 36 37 38 39 42 52 63 52 Mean monthly sunshine hours 177. 1 Source: NOAA 1. “Kabul Climate Normals 1956–1983”. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Archived from the original on 4 May 2023. Retrieved 30 March 2013. “Global Surface Summary of the Day – GSOD”. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved 26 January 2023.

The climate of Kabul reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, elevation, and regional weather patterns that create distinct seasonal characteristics. These climatic conditions have profoundly influenced local architecture, agricultural practices, and cultural traditions throughout the region’s history.

Temperature variations throughout the year in Kabul create distinct seasons that influence both natural ecosystems and human activities. Local communities have developed sophisticated strategies for adapting to these seasonal changes, creating cultural practices and economic activities that take advantage of favorable conditions while preparing for challenging periods.

Precipitation patterns in Kabul determine agricultural cycles and water availability that support both urban and rural communities. Understanding these patterns helps explain the timing of traditional festivals, agricultural activities, and seasonal migrations that have characterized life in the region for generations.

The interaction between climate and culture in Kabul provides fascinating insights into human adaptation and environmental stewardship. Traditional building techniques, clothing styles, food preservation methods, and seasonal celebrations all reflect centuries of accumulated wisdom about living successfully in the local climatic conditions.

Cultural Heritage and Community Life

Demographics Further information: Demographics of Afghanistan and Afghan diaspora Young Afghan men and women at a rock music festival inside the _Gardens of Babur_ Kabul’s population was estimated in 2023 at about 4. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. The city’s population has long fluctuated due to the wars. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. The lack of an up-to-date census means that there are various estimates of the population. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. Kabul’s population was estimated to have been about 10,000 in 1700, 65,000 by 1878, and 120,000 by 1940. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. More recently, the population was around 500,000 in 1979, whilst another source claims 337,715 as of 1976. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. This figure rose to about 1. 5 million by 1988, before dramatically dropping in the 1990s. Kabul became one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with its population growing fourfold from 2001 to 2014. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. This was partly due to the return of refugees after the fall of the Taliban regime, and partly due to Afghans moving from other provinces mainly due to war between Taliban insurgents and Afghan government forces in their native areas as well as looking for labor. This resulting rapid urbanisation means that many residents today live in informal settlements. Shanty mud-brick homes on the mountainsides and steep hills have been built by them and these are usually poverty-stricken, not connected to the water and electricity grid. The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. Although the settlements are illegal, they have been tolerated by authorities. In 2017 Kabul Municipality started a project to paint the homes in these settlements in bright colors in an effort to “cheer up” residents. Houses built on mountains Kabul is and has historically been the most ethnically diverse city in the country, with the population including Afghans from all over the country. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. Approximately 45% of Kabul’s population is Tajik, 25% Hazara, another 25% is Pashtun, and minority ethnic groups include Qizilbash (counted to Tajiks), 1% Baloch, 2% Uzbek, 1% Turkmen, and 1% Afghan Hindu. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. Almost three-quarters of the population of Kabul follow Sunni Islam, and around Twenty-five percent of residents are Shiites. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. Other religions in the city include Sikhism and Hinduism. In 1525, Babur described the region in his memoirs by writing that: > Eleven or twelve tongues are spoken in Kābul—‘Arabī, Persian, Turkī, > Mughūlī, Hindī, Afghānī, Pashāī, Parājī, Gibrī, Bīrkī, and Lamghānī. If > there be another country with so many differing tribes and such a diversity > of tongues, it is not known. — Baburnama, 1525 Afghan girls in Kabul in 2012 Along with Pashtun, Tajik and Hazara communities, who make up the majority of the population of the city, there was a significant population of Uzbek, Turkmen, Kuchi, Qizilbash, Hindu, Sikh and other groups. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. The broader province of Kabul however, is dominated by Pashtun and Tajik groups. The Dari (Persian) and Pashto languages are widely used in the region, although Dari serves as the lingua franca. The linguistic diversity of Kabul reflects centuries of cultural exchange and provides insights into the region’s complex ethnic heritage. Multilingualism is common throughout the area, particularly among the Pashtun people. The term “Kabuli”.

Culture and landmarks The Kabul Bird Market (_Ka Foroshi_) The old part of Kabul was filled with bazaars nestled along its narrow, crooked streets, examples being the Mandawi and the Bird Market (_Ka Foroshi_). Commercial activities in Kabul connect the local community to broader regional networks while maintaining traditional trading practices. Cultural sites included: the National Museum of Afghanistan, notably displaying an impressive statue of Surya excavated at Khair Khana, the ruined Darul Aman Palace, the tomb of Mughal Emperor Babur at Bagh-e Babur, and Chihil Sutun Park, the Minar-i-Istiqlal (Column of Independence) built in 1919 after the Third Afghan War, the tomb of Timur Shah Durrani, the Bagh-e Bala Palace and the imposing Id Gah Mosque (founded 1893). Bala Hissar was a fort which was partially destroyed during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, then restored as a military college. There was also the Kolola Pushta fort, which was garrisoned by the Afghan Army, and the nearby 19th-century Shahrara Tower fort, which was ruined in 1928. The Koh-e Asamai mountain had a temple that was considered important to Hinduism. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. Other places of interest include Kabul City Center, which was Kabul’s first shopping mall, the shops around Flower Street and Chicken Street, Wazir Akbar Khan district, Kabul Golf Club, Kabul Zoo, Abdul Rahman Mosque, Shah-Do Shamshira and other famous mosques, the National Gallery of Afghanistan, the National Archives of Afghanistan, Afghan Royal Family Mausoleum, the OMAR Mine Museum, Bibi Mahro Hill, Kabul Cemetery, and Paghman Gardens best known for the famous Taq-e Zafar arch. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) was also involved in the restoration of the Bagh-e Babur (Babur Gardens). Maranjan Hill (_Tappe-i-Maranjan_) was a nearby hill where Buddhist statues and Graeco-Bactrian coins from the 2nd century BC have been found. Outside the city proper lied the Buddhist Guldara stupa and another stupa at Shewaki. Paghman and Jalalabad were interesting valleys west and east of the city. On the latter road, about 16 miles east of the city, was the Tang-e Gharu gorge. Kabul used to have as many as 23 cinemas, but currently only had four, including the state owned Ariana Cinema. The decline of cinema of Afghanistan since the 1990s, both due to war and oppressive regimes, had meant many of these have closed. The Nandari, or Kabul National Theater, was one of the largest theaters in Asia before it was destroyed in the civil war and has not been restored. The lack of investment meant that the sector did not recover after 2001, and notably the rundown Park Cinema was controversially demolished in 2020. National Museum of Afghanistan Afghanistan National Archives Bibi Mahro Park * **Parks** * Bagh-e Babur (Gardens of Babur) * Bagh-e Chihil Sutun (Gardens of Chihil Sutun) * Bagh-e Bala Park * Zarnegar Park * Shahr-e Naw Park * Bagh-e Zanana * Chaman-e-Hozori * Bibi Mahro Park * Lake Qargha * **Mosques** * Abdul Rahman Mosque * Id Gah Mosque * Abul Fazl Shrine * Sakhi Shrine * Pul-e Khishti Mosque.

The cultural landscape of Kabul represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining their essential character and community significance. This cultural continuity provides visitors with authentic opportunities to witness traditional ways of life that have largely disappeared from more commercialized destinations.

Social organization in Kabul reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to survive and thrive despite historical challenges and changing circumstances. These social structures demonstrate the resilience and adaptability that characterize local cultural traditions.

Traditional arts and crafts in Kabul continue to flourish as both cultural expressions and economic activities, providing visitors with opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques passed down through family lines for generations. These traditional skills serve as important markers of cultural identity while adapting to contemporary market demands.

Religious and spiritual practices in Kabul provide insights into the deeper values and beliefs that guide daily life and community decision-making. These traditions create frameworks for social interaction and cultural continuity that visitors can observe and appreciate through respectful participation in community activities.

Economic Activities and Local Industries

Economy and infrastructure Further information: Economy of Afghanistan Kabul’s main products included fresh and dried fruit, nuts, beverages, Afghan rugs, leather and sheep skin products, furniture, antique replicas, and domestic clothes. The World Bank authorised US$25 million for the Kabul Urban Reconstruction Project which closed in 2011. Over the last decade, the United States has invested approximately $9. 1 billion into urban infrastructure in Afghanistan. The wars since 1978 have limited the city’s economic productivity but after the establishment of the Karzai administration since late 2001, local economic developments have included a number of indoor shopping malls. The first of these was the Kabul City Center, opened 2005. Others have also opened in recent years including Gulbahar Center, City Walk Mall and Majid Mall. Mandawi Road on the south side of the river, located between Murad Khani and Shur Bazaar neighbourhoods, is one of the main bazaars of Kabul. The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. This wholesale market is very popular amongst locals. Commercial activities in Kabul connect the local community to broader regional networks while maintaining traditional trading practices. Nearby is the Sarai Shahzada money exchange market. Commercial activities in Kabul connect the local community to broader regional networks while maintaining traditional trading practices. Chicken Street is perhaps best known to foreigners. Kabul’s largest industrial hub was located in District 9, on the north banks of the River Kabul and near the airport. The water resources of Kabul have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. About 6 km (4 mi) from downtown Kabul, in Bagrami, a 9-hectare (22-acre) industrial complex had been completed with modern facilities, which allowed companies to operate businesses there. The park had professional management for the daily maintenance of public roads, internal streets, common areas, parking areas, 24 hours perimeter security, access control for vehicles and people. A number of factories operated there, including the $25 million Coca-Cola bottling plant and the Omaid Bahar juice factory. Inside an antiquity shop in Kabul’s famous Chicken Street (_Kochi Murgha_) According to Transparency International, the government of Afghanistan was the third most-corrupt in the world, as of 2010. Experts believe that the poor decisions of Afghan politicians contributed to the unrest in the region. This also prevented foreign investment in Afghanistan, especially by Western countries. In 2012, there were reportedly $3. 9 billion paid to public officials in bribes which contributed to these issues. Da Afghanistan Bank, the nation’s central bank, was headquartered in Kabul. In addition, there are several commercial banks in the city. As of 2016 there were[_needs update. _] about 20,000 foreign tourists visiting Afghanistan per year. #Development planning A US$1 billion contract was signed in 2013 to commence work on the “Kabul New City” (sometimes reported as “New Kabul City”), which is a major residential scheme that would accommodate 1. 5 million people. Construction was delayed due to instability in the region, but construction broke ground in August 2023 after a new contract was signed between the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing and Khawar Company. The new agreement is expected to mod.

The economic structure of Kabul reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and modern opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability. This economic diversity provides resilience against external economic pressures while supporting local community needs.

Traditional economic activities in Kabul often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance. These traditional approaches offer valuable lessons in sustainable development that remain relevant in contemporary discussions about economic and environmental policy.

Local markets and commercial activities in Kabul serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange. These markets provide visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices while supporting local entrepreneurs and artisans.

The service sector in Kabul has evolved to accommodate visitors and external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service. This balance creates opportunities for meaningful economic exchange that benefits both local communities and visitors.

Transportation and Access to Kabul

Transportation Further information: Transport in Afghanistan Flightline at Hamid Karzai International Airport (Kabul International Airport), 2012 Kabul has no train service. #Air Kabul International Airport is located 25 km (16 mi) from the centre of Kabul. It is a hub to Ariana Afghan Airlines, the national carrier of Afghanistan, as well as private airlines such as Afghan Jet International, East Horizon Airlines, Kam Air, Pamir Airways, and Safi Airways. Regional airlines such as Air India, SpiceJet, flydubai, Emirates, Gulf Air, Mahan Air, Pakistan International Airlines, Turkish Airlines and others also had regularly scheduled flights to the airport. #Road The AH76 highway (or Kabul-Charikar Highway) connected Kabul north towards Charikar, Pol-e Khomri and Mazar-i-Sharif (310 km (190 mi) away), with leading roads to Kunduz (250 km (160 mi) away). The AH77 highway went west towards Bamiyan Province (150 km (93 mi) away) and Chaghcharan in the central mountains of Afghanistan. The mountainous terrain surrounding Kabul creates unique microclimates and provides natural protection that has influenced settlement patterns. To the south-west, the Kabul-Ghazni Highway went to Ghazni (130 km (81 mi) away) and Kandahar (460 km (290 mi) away). To the south, the Kabul-Gardez Highway connected it to Gardez (100 km (62 mi) away) and Khost. To the east, the Kabul-Jalalabad Highway went to Jalalabad (120 km (75 mi) away) and across the border to Peshawar. Much of the road network in downtown Kabul consisted of square or circle intersections (_char-rahi_). The main square in the city was Pashtunistan Square (named after Pashtunistan), which had a large fountain in it and was located adjacent to the presidential palace, the Central Bank, and other landmarks. The Massoud Circle was located by the U. Embassy and had the road leading to the airport. In the old city, Sar-e Chawk roundabout was at the center of Maiwand Road (_Jadayi Maiwand_). Once all roads led to it, and in the 16th century was called the “navel of Kabul”. In the Shahr-e Naw district there were several major intersections: Ansari, Haji Yaqub, Quwayi Markaz, Sedarat, and Turabaz Khan. The latter, named after Turabaz Khan, connected Flower Street and Chicken Street. There were also two major intersections in western Kabul: the Deh Mazang Circle and Kote Sangi. Salang Watt was the main road to the north-west, whereas Asamayi Watt and Seh Aqrab (also called Sevom Aqrab) was the main road to western Kabul. The steep population rise in the 21st century had caused major congestion problems for the city’s roads. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kabul throughout its history. In efforts to tackle this issue, a 95 km outer ring road costing $110 million was approved in 2017. Construction would have taken five years and it will run from Char Asiab via Ahmad Shah Baba Mina, Deh Sabz (“Kabul New City” development area), the AH76 highway, Paghman and back to Char Asyab. A new bus public transport service was also planned to be opened in 2018 (see below). In September 2017, the head of the Kabul Municipality announced that 286 meters of pedestrian overpass footbridges will be built in.

Transportation infrastructure serving Kabul reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes development throughout the region. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple ways for visitors to reach and explore Kabul while respecting local customs and environmental considerations.

Educational and Cultural Institutions

Education Further information: Education in Afghanistan and List of schools in Kabul The Ministry of Education led by Ghulam Farooq Wardak was responsible for the education system in Afghanistan. Public and private schools in the city have reopened since 2002 after they were shut down or destroyed during fighting in the 1980s to the late 1990s. Boys and girls were strongly encouraged to attend school under the Karzai administration but many more schools were needed not only in Kabul but throughout the country. The Afghan Ministry of Education had plans to build more schools in the coming years so that education was provided to all citizens of the country. High schools in Kabul included: * Abdul Hadi Dawi High School, a school for boys * Abdul Rahim-e-Shaheed High School, a school for boys and girls (up to Year 6) founded in 1970 * Afghan Turk High Schools, Turkish-Afghan schools * Aisha-i-Durani School, a German-Afghan school for girls * Amani High School, a German-Afghan school for boys founded in 1924 * Ghulam Haider Khan High School, a school for boys * Habibia High School, a British-Afghan school founded in 1903 by King Habibullah Khan * International School of Kabul, an American-Afghan school * Lycée Esteqlal, a Franco-Afghan school founded in 1922 * Malalai High School, a Franco-Afghan school for girls * Nazo Ana High School, a school for boys * Rahman Baba High School, an American-Afghan school for boys #Universities Kabul Medical University Kabul Education University of Rabbani Universities included: * Afghanistan Institute Of Higher Education * Afghan National Security University * American University of Afghanistan * Bakhtar University * Dawat University * Dunya University of Afghanistan * Gawharshad Institute of Higher Education * Gharjistan University * Kaboora Institute of Higher Education * Kabul Education University of Rabbani * Kabul Health Sciences Institute * Kabul Medical University * Kabul Polytechnic University * Kabul University * Karwan University * Kardan University * Kateb University * Khatam Al-Nabieen University * Maryam University * Mashal University * Qalam institute of higher education * Rana Institute of Higher Education * Rifah Afghanistan Institute * Salam University 1. “دپوھنی وزارت”. Moe.gov.af. Archived from the original on 14 November 2011. Retrieved 18 May 2014.

Educational institutions in Kabul serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems. These institutions often welcome respectful visitors interested in understanding local approaches to education and knowledge transmission.

Planning Your Visit to Kabul

Successful visits to Kabul require preparation that goes beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities. The most meaningful experiences in Kabul often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and conditions.

The rewards of visiting Kabul extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home. Many visitors describe their time in Kabul as transformative, providing new understanding of human potential, community cooperation, and sustainable living practices that remain relevant in contemporary global discussions.

Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Kabul”.