Ka Faroshi Bird Market

The Ka Faroshi Bird Market is a traditional lane in Kabul's Old City where birds are bought and sold, and it is one of the more distinctive sights of the quarter. The name is generally given as Ka Faroshi, meaning the place of the bird sellers, and the street is lined with small shops and stalls with cages stacked on the walls and pavements. The birds on sale include singing partridges, canaries and other songbirds, as well as fighting quail, which are kept for the long-established local pastime of quail fighting. Keeping singing birds is a cherished tradition in Afghan households, and customers can be seen listening to and comparing birds before choosing. A few antique and curio shops sit off the lane, selling old coins, brass, jewellery and household items, and these are worth a browse. A visit takes around 45 minutes, which is enough to walk the lane, watch the trading and look into the side shops. The market is open daily from roughly 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and morning is the best time, when the birds are active and the light is good for photography. Entry is free. Visitors should ask before photographing vendors and their birds, as some sellers expect a courtesy purchase or a polite request. Conditions for the birds are basic, and the market may be uncomfortable for visitors sensitive to animal welfare. The lane is a ten-minute walk from Pul-e Khishti Mosque and close to Mandawi Bazaar, so it combines with the other Old City sights. Bags should be kept secure in the crowd.