Description
Kandahar, Afghanistan’s southern cultural heart, is a city rich with history, tradition, and Pashtun heritage. As the former capital of Ahmad Shah Durrani—the founder of modern Afghanistan—Kandahar offers a glimpse into the origins of Afghan nationhood. The city is home to significant religious and historical sites such as the Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad (Khirka Sharif), and the Old City walls that whisper tales of empires past.
Beyond its historical significance, Kandahar is a vibrant commercial and social hub, renowned for its pomegranate orchards, traditional bazaars, and deep-rooted tribal customs. Visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality, and the unique Pashto culture shines through in everything from cuisine and clothing to music and poetry. Kandahar’s open plains and nearby mountains offer opportunities for exploration with a local guide, giving travelers access to authentic, less-explored experiences.
While tourism infrastructure is developing slowly, the city retains its original charm and cultural depth. For travelers with a curiosity for Afghanistan’s southern soul, Kandahar delivers with its powerful blend of tradition, resilience, and local pride.
Country | Afghanistan |
Languages Spoken | Dari, Pashto |
Currency Used | AFN |
Visa Requirements |
Afghanistan requires a valid visa for most foreign nationals. Applications should be made at Afghan embassies abroad, and travelers must secure permission before arrival. In the case of Kandahar, additional travel advisories may apply due to regional sensitivities. Mehr Tours assists travelers with up-to-date visa guidance, letters of invitation, and local coordination to ensure a secure and lawful visit. |
Activities |
Explore Kandahar’s historic sites with guided tours to the Khirka Sharif, the tomb of Ahmad Shah Durrani, and the Kandahar Museum. For culturally curious visitors, Mehr Tours organizes visits to traditional Pashtun settlements and bazaars, where you can experience live folk music and taste local dishes like Kabuli Palaw and lamb karahi. Photographers and adventurers may enjoy excursions to the Arghandab valley, known for its pomegranate orchards and scenic villages. The flat open lands and warm light of Kandahar also offer great opportunities for cultural photography and short hikes with safety-conscious guides. |
Best Time to Visit |
The ideal time to visit Kandahar is during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), when the weather is pleasant, and the orchards are in bloom. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters are dry and cool. Autumn is especially attractive due to the pomegranate harvest, a symbol of Kandahar’s agricultural heritage. |
Health and Safety |
Travelers to Kandahar are advised to follow security guidance and travel with local experts familiar with the area. Mehr Tours ensures every journey is accompanied by local liaisons and risk-aware planning. Basic health services are available in the city, though remote travel should include a personal first-aid kit. Drinking bottled or filtered water, dressing modestly, and respecting local customs are essential for both safety and cultural harmony. |