Complete Travel Guide to Kandahār, Afghanistan

Kandahār Kandahar, is a city in Afghanistan, located in the south of the country on Arghandab River, at an elevation of 1,010 m (3,310 ft). It is Afghanistan’s second largest city, after Kabul, with a population of about 614,118 in 2015. It is the capital of Kandahar Province and the centre of the larger cultural region called Loy Kandahar. Located at coordinates 31.61332°N, 65.71013°E, the city occupies a strategic position that has influenced its development throughout history. At an elevation of 1010.0 meters above sea level, Kandahār benefits from unique geographic advantages that distinguish it from surrounding areas. With a population of 614254 residents, Kandahār serves as an important center for the surrounding region. The community structure of Kandahār reflects traditional social organization adapted to modern circumstances. As part of Kandahar province, Kandahār contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that characterizes Afghanistan. The historical significance of Kandahār extends beyond its current boundaries, encompassing influences that have shaped the broader region.

Historical Development of Kandahār

History Timeline of Kandahar (Alexandria Arachosia) Historical affiliations > Macedonia 330 BC–312 BC > Seleucid Empire 312 BC–304 BC > Maurya Empire 304 BC–204 BC > Seleucid Empire 204 BC–c 180 BC > Greco-Bactrian Kingdom 180 BC – c.

150 BC > Yavana Kingdom c 150 BC–142 BC > Indo-Scythians 142 BC–32 BC > Parthian Empire 32 BC–19 CE > Indo-Parthian Kingdom 19–36 > Kushan Empire 36–230 > Sasanian Empire 230–645 > Rashidun Caliphate 645–661 > Umayyad Caliphate 661–750 > Abbasid Caliphate 750–861 > Saffarid dynasty 861–977 > Ghaznavid Empire 977–1175 > Ghurid dynasty 1175–1207 > Khwarazmian Empire 1207–1222 > Mongol Empire 1222–1256 > Ilkhanate 1256–1347 > Kart dynasty 1347–1382 > Timurid Empire 1382–1507 > Mughal Empire 1507–1649 > Safavid Empire 1649–1711 > Hotak dynasty 1711–1738 > Afsharid Empire 1738–1747 > Durrani Empire 1747–1818 > Principality of Kandahar 1818–1839 > United Kingdom (Company Raj) 1839–1842 > Principality of Kandahar 1842–1855 > Afghanistan 1855–present 1924 maps of Kandahar and surroundings by the Survey of India #Prehistory Further information: Pre-Islamic period of Afghanistan Excavations of prehistoric sites by archaeologists such as Louis Dupree and others suggest that the region around Kandahar is one of the oldest known human settlements known so far.

> Early peasant farming villages came into existence in Afghanistan ca , or 7000 years ago Deh Morasi Ghundai, the first prehistoric site to > be excavated in Afghanistan, lies 27 km (17 mi) southwest of Kandahar > (Dupree, 1951).

Another Bronze Age village mound site with multiroomed mud- > brick buildings dating from the same period sits nearby at Said Qala (J > Shaffer, 1970) Second millennium B Bronze Age pottery, copper and bronze > horse trappings and stone seals were found in the lowermost levels in the > nearby cave called Shamshir Ghar (Dupree, 1950).

In the Seistan, southwest > of these Kandahar sites, two teams of American archaeologists discovered > sites relating to the 2nd millennium B Dales, University Museum, > University of Pennsylvania, 1969, 1971; W, Trousdale, Smithsonian > Institution, 1971 – 76).

Stylistically the finds from Deh Morasi and Said > Qala tie in with those of pre-Indus Valley sites and with those of > comparable age on the Iranian Plateau and in Central Asia, indicating > cultural contacts during this very early age.

Dupree, 1971 British excavations in the 1970s discovered that Kandahar existed as a large fortified city during the early 1st millennium BC; while this earliest period at Kandahar has not been precisely dated via radiocarbon, ceramic comparisons with the latest period at the major Bronze Age city of Mundigak have suggested an approximate time-frame of 1000 to 750 BC.

This fortified city became an important outpost of the Achaemenid Empire in the 6th to 4th centuries BC, and formed par.

The historical legacy of Kandahār 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 Arghandab Valley The Arghandab River runs along the west of Kandahar. The water resources of Kandahār have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. The city has 15 districts and a total land area of 27,337 hectares. The total number of dwellings in Kandahar is 61,902. Only 64% of families in Kandahar have access to safe drinking water; 22% of households have access to safe toilet facilities; and 27% of households have access to electricity, with the remainder dependent on public power. The water resources of Kandahār have been fundamental to its development and continue to influence local agriculture and daily life. Kandahar’s transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with 76. 8% of the province’s roads capable of carrying car traffic in all seasons. However, there are no roads in a minor portion of the province (3. In terms of telecommunications, Kandahar City and major roadways are covered by the three major mobile networks AWCC, Roshan, and MTN. #Land use Kandahar is the regional hub in southern Afghanistan, close to the border with Pakistan. Non-built up land use accounts for 59% of the total land area. Within the built-up area, vacant plots occupy a slightly higher percentage of land (36%) than residential land (34%). There is a significant commercial cluster along the road to Pakistan in District 5. India, Iran and Pakistan have consulates here for trade, military and political links. Commercial activities in Kandahār connect the local community to broader regional networks while maintaining traditional trading practices. #Climate Kandahar has a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen _BSh_), that borders on a hot desert climate (_BWh_), characterised by little precipitation and high variation between summer and winter temperatures. Summers start in mid-May, last until late September, and are extremely dry. Temperatures peak in July with a 24-hour daily average of around 31. They are followed by dry autumns from early October to late November, with days still averaging in the 20s °C (above 68 °F) into November, although nights are sharply cooler. Winter begins in December and sees most of its precipitation in the form of rain. Temperatures average 5. 2 °F) in January, although lows can drop well below freezing. They end in early March and are followed by a pleasant spring until late April with temperatures generally in the upper 10s °C to lower 30s °C (65–88 °F) range. Sunny weather dominates year-round, especially in summer, when rainfall is extremely rare. The annual mean temperature is 18. Climate data for Kandahar (1964–1983) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 25. 7) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 12. 0) Daily mean °C (°F) 5.

The topographical characteristics of Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahar has a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen _BSh_), that borders on a hot desert climate (_BWh_), characterised by little precipitation and high variation between summer and winter temperatures. Summers start in mid-May, last until late September, and are extremely dry. Temperatures peak in July with a 24-hour daily average of around 31. They are followed by dry autumns from early October to late November, with days still averaging in the 20s °C (above 68 °F) into November, although nights are sharply cooler. Winter begins in December and sees most of its precipitation in the form of rain. Temperatures average 5. 2 °F) in January, although lows can drop well below freezing. They end in early March and are followed by a pleasant spring until late April with temperatures generally in the upper 10s °C to lower 30s °C (65–88 °F) range. Sunny weather dominates year-round, especially in summer, when rainfall is extremely rare. The annual mean temperature is 18. Climate data for Kandahar (1964–1983) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 25. 7) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 12. 0) Daily mean °C (°F) 5. 4) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 0. 9) Record low °C (°F) −12. 2) Average precipitation mm (inches) 54. 52) Average precipitation days 6 6 6 4 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 29 Average relative humidity (%) 58 59 50 41 30 23 25 25 24 29 40 52 38 Mean monthly sunshine hours 198. 6 Source: NOAA (1964–1983) 1. “Art Of War – Военно-исторический литературный портал”. Archived from the original on 14 February 2010. “Kandahar Climate Normals 1964–1983”. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The climate of Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Religions in Kandahar Religion % Muslims 99. 05% *includes Sikhs, Baháʼí and Atheists Kandahar has a population of approximately 1,057,500 people in 2008. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. In the province, there are around 14,445 households, with an average of seven individuals per home. Around 68 percent of Kandahar’s population resides in rural districts, with males accounting for 51 percent of the population. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. Pashtuns are the province’s largest ethnic group. Major Pashtun tribes such as the Durrani including Barakzai, Popalzai, Alkozai, Noorzai, Ishaqzai, Achakzai, Maku, and Qizilbash Shia’s and Khilji are included. More than 98 percent of the population speaks Pashtu. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. Only a small percentage of the population speaks Balochi language and Dari. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. Kochi people (Pashtun Nomads) also live in Kandahar province, and their numbers fluctuate depending on the season, with estimates stating approximately 79,000 in the winter and 39,000 in the summer. The population of Kandahar numbers approximately 651,484 as of 2021[update]. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. The Pashtuns make up the overwhelming majority population of the city and province Pashto is the main language in the city and the region. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. Persian is also understood by a few number of the city dwellers, especially those serving in the government. Both are the official languages of Afghanistan. The linguistic diversity of Kandahār reflects centuries of cultural exchange and provides insights into the region’s complex ethnic heritage. A 2006 compendium of provincial data prepared by the Afghan Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development and United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) states: > “The major ethnic group living in Khandahar province is Pashtoons. This > includes major tribes such as Durrani sub tribes including Barakzai, > Popalzai, Alkozai, Achakzai, Ishaqzai, Noorzai and Alezai. Pashtu is spoken > by more than 98% of population and in more than 98% of villages. This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. Dari is > spoken in six villages by 4000 people and Balochi is spoken by 8000 people > in two villages. 19000 people in nine villages speak some other unspecified > language. The linguistic diversity of Kandahār reflects centuries of cultural exchange and provides insights into the region’s complex ethnic heritage. ” The Pashtun culture, history, traditions, clothing and Pashtunwali is dominant in this region. Cite error: The named reference `ReferenceA` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). “Estimated Population of Afghanistan 2021–22″ (PDF). This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. National Statistic and Information Authority (NSIA). Archived from the original (PDF) on 24 June 2021. Retrieved 21 June 2021. Demography and Population” (PDF). This demographic composition reflects the broader patterns of settlement and migration that have shaped Kandahār throughout its history. _United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan and Afghanistan Statistical Yearbook 2006, Central Statistics Office_. Afghanistan’s Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development. Archived from the original on 21 March 2012.

#Cultural sites and parks * Kandahar Shahhi Park * Baba Saab * Kokaran Park * Baghi Pul Park Panoramio – Photo of Baghi Pul Park Swimming Pool only for Male * Chilzina View (Moghul Emperor Babur’s inscription site) * Kandahar Museum.

The cultural landscape of Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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

The economic structure of Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 Kandahār

Transport Further information: Transport in Afghanistan and Highway 1 (Afghanistan) A Kam Air passenger plane at Kandahar International Airport in 2012 Kandahar International Airport serves as southern Afghanistan’s main airport for domestic and international flights. It is also used as a major military base as well as shipping and receiving of supplies for the NATO armies. The entire area in and around the airport is heavily guarded but a section is designated for civilian passengers. Most international flights are to the UAE, Iran, India, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. Kandahar is connected to Quetta Pakistan via Chaman and Kabul by the Kabul- Kandahar Highway and to Herat by the Kandahar-Herat Highway. There is a bus station located at the start of the Kabul-Kandahar Highway, where a number of privately owned older-model Mercedes-Benz coach buses are available to take passengers to most major cities of the country. Kandahar is also connected by road to Quetta in neighbouring Pakistan. Due to the ongoing war, the route to Kabul has become increasingly dangerous as insurgent attacks on convoys and destruction of bridges make it an unreliable link between the two cities. Commuters in the city of Kandahar use the public bus system (Milli Bus), and taxicabs and rickshaws are common. Private vehicle use is increasing, partially due to road and highway improvements. Large dealerships are importing cars from Dubai, UAE. Cogan, James (16 August 2008). “Hundreds dead in fighting along Afghanistan-Pakistan border”. _World Socialist Web Site_. Archived from the original on 2 September 2008. Retrieved 25 August 2008. Salih, Salih Muhammad; Siddique, Abubakar (23 October 2008). “Death stalks the highway to hell”. _Asia Times Online_. Archived from the original on 7 July 2012. Retrieved 23 October 2008. Wheeler, Tony (6 June 2006). “Afghanistan Practicalities”. Archived from the original on 7 January 2011. Retrieved 9 January 2011.

Transportation infrastructure serving Kandahār 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 Kandahār while respecting local customs and environmental considerations.

Educational and Cultural Institutions

Education Further information: Education in Afghanistan Children from the Zarghona Ana High School watch members of Afghan National Security Force and Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team prepare for the Kandahar Nursing and Midwifery Institute grand opening ceremony in 2012. Before the 1978 coup in Kabul, majority of the city’s population were enrolled in schools.[_citation needed_] Nearly all of the elite class of the city fled to neighboring Pakistan during the early 1980s, and from there they began immigrating to North America, Europe, Australia and other parts of the world. The two oldest known schools are Ahmad Shah Baba High School and Zarghona Ana High School. There are a number of new schools that opened in the last decade, with more being built in the future as the city’s population grows with the large returning Afghans from neighboring countries. Afghan Turk High Schools is one of the top private schools in the city. The main university is the Kandahar University. A number of private higher education institutions have also opened in the last decade such as Benawa Institute of Higher Education, Mirwais Neeka Institute of Higher Education, Malalay Institute of Higher Education and Saba Institute of Higher Education. The adult literacy rate ratio was 16.8% in 2012. Archived 17 March 2023 at the Wayback Machine 1. “Benawa Institute of Higher Education | Tuition | Admission – Counselor Corporation”. 8 July 2020. Archived from the original on 28 July 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2021. 2. “Mirwais Neeka Institute of Higher Education – Counselor Corporation”. 19 September 2020. Archived from the original on 28 July 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2021. 3. “Saba Institute of Higher Education | Fee & Academics – Counselor Corporation”. 27 September 2020. Archived from the original on 28 July 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2021. 4. “Malalay University | Tuition and Fees | Academics – Counselor Corporation”. 19 September 2020. Archived from the original on 28 July 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2021.

Educational institutions in Kandahār 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 Kandahār

Successful visits to Kandahār 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 Kandahār often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and conditions.

The rewards of visiting Kandahār 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 Kandahār 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 “Kandahar”.