BAMYAN-MAZAR

Bamyan to Mazar Tour

Trip Origin: Kabul Airport
Number of Participants: 1
Travel Dates: March 1-7, 2025
Price: USD 1,350

Day 1: Arrival in Kabul

Date: March 1, 2025

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and briefed at your hotel. You will have the opportunity to explore the Bird Market, the oldest part of Kabul, where avian species from around the world are showcased. This vibrant market is not just about birds; it reflects the daily lives of local blacksmiths, vendors, and artisans. You will experience a diverse array of ethnicities and cultures present in Afghanistan.

Later, you will visit the Sakhi Shrine, an ancient turquoise-tiled mosque located in western Kabul, revered by Shia Muslims as the final resting place of Hazrat Ali, the cousin of Prophet Muhammad.

Overnight at Cedar Guesthouse.

Day 2: Flight to Mazar-e-Sharif and Balkh

Date: March 2, 2025

You will take a morning flight to Mazar-e-Sharif at 11:30 AM. Your journey will continue to Balkh, an ancient city known for its rich history in Buddhism, Sufism, and Zoroastrianism. Key sites will include:

  • Haji Piyada Mosque (The Walking Pilgrim)
  • Tomb of Rabia Balkhi, possibly the first woman poet in New Persian poetry
  • Khoja Parsa Mosque
  • Bala Hisar, the ancient citadel founded by Alexander the Great

In the afternoon, you will visit the Blue Mosque of Ali in Mazar-e-Sharif, one of the most beautiful and significant sacred sites in the Islamic world, known for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Overnight at Arsalan Hotel.

Day 3: Mazar-e-Sharif and Samangan

Date: March 3, 2025

Your day will begin with a visit to Takht-i Rustam (Throne of Rustam), a remarkable archaeological site featuring ancient Buddhist caves and stupas, significant in the evolution of Buddhist architecture in Afghanistan.

Overnight at Arsalan Hotel.

Day 4: Journey to Bamyan

Date: March 4, 2025

Travel north through the scenic Hindu Kush mountains, passing through the historic Salang Tunnels. You will reach Bamyan by evening, having traversed five provinces.

Overnight at Noorbandqala Hotel.

Day 5: Exploring Bamyan

Date: March 5, 2025

After an early start, you will visit the Buddha Niches, the monumental statues that were carved into the cliffs of Bamyan Valley, destroyed in 2001. You will also explore the ruins of Shahr-e Gholghola (City of Screams) and Shahr-e Zuhak (The Red City), both rich in history and archaeological significance.

Overnight at Noorbandqala Hotel.

Day 6: Band-e-Amir National Park

Date: March 6, 2025

Today is dedicated to visiting the stunning blue lakes of Band-e-Amir, a series of six interconnected lakes formed by natural travertine dams. This area, dominated by the Hazara ethnic group, was declared Afghanistan's first national park in 2009. You will have time to enjoy the natural beauty before returning to Bamyan.

Overnight at Noorbandqala Hotel.

Day 7: Return to Kabul

Date: March 7, 2025

In the morning, you will drive back to Kabul. Depending on your schedule, you may visit the Shah Do Shamshira Mosque, built in memory of the Arab king who introduced Islam to Kabul, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Bibi Mahro Hills. Finally, you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure.

Additional Information

  • Cultural Attire: We recommend wearing local attire, including a hijab for women, to foster a respectful atmosphere with locals.
  • Safety: All locations have been assessed for safety. Please follow your guide’s instructions in case of emergencies.
  • Mosque Etiquette: When visiting mosques, do not walk in front of individuals who are praying.
  • Local Engagement: Be open to conversations with locals, but keep personal details private.
  • Hydration: Always request bottled water from your guide.
  • Photography: Respect privacy; seek permission before photographing individuals.
  • No Donations: Avoid giving money to beggars to discourage begging.
  • Currency Exchange: Your guide can assist with currency exchange as needed.
  • Time Awareness: Stay aware of local time throughout your travels.
  • Questions: Feel free to ask your guide any questions during your tour.

Visas

We can provide a Letter of Invitation (LoI) to assist with your visa application, which may be required by Afghan embassies and consulates.

Insurance

We recommend contacting high-risk travel insurance providers such as:

Tour Inclusions

  • All accommodations
  • English-speaking local guide
  • All transportation
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Bottled drinks (water and soft drinks)
  • Round-trip domestic flights from Kabul to Mazar-e-Sharif
  • Site entry fees
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off

You will not need to incur any additional expenses during your stay.

Tour Guide

A knowledgeable English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout your tour.

Accommodation

All accommodations include a private room in secure hotels or guesthouses, with armed security available 24/7.

Transportation

We utilize experienced drivers and well-maintained vehicles for all transfers and road trips to ensure your safety and comfort.

 


Book Your Trip Now


* These fields are required.

Top