Kabul is the capital of Afghanistan, a mountain-ringed city of roughly 4.6 million at 1,790 m. This guide records its historic sites, markets and food while stating plainly that every government advises against travel there.
Cultural orientation
Essential context for travellers.
Greet with a hand over the heart and "Salaam alaikum".
Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques.
Use the right hand for eating and passing items.
Do not photograph women or strangers without permission.
Avoid public displays of affection; do not touch members of the opposite sex.
Do's and don'ts
Quick guide to local norms.
Do
- Dress modestly in loose, long clothing
- Accept tea when offered
- Carry small AFN notes for tips
- Learn basic Dari greetings
Don't
- Do not drink alcohol or carry it; it is banned
- Do not photograph military or police
- Do not criticise Islam or the authorities
- Do not take photos of mosques at prayer
Local customs
Traditions and practices you'll encounter.
Etiquette by setting
How to navigate everyday situations.
- Greetings
- Men shake hands and place the right hand on the heart; women are not offered a handshake by men.
- Dining
- Eat with the right hand, from shared dishes on a cloth on the floor; do not point soles of feet at others.
- Dress
- Loose clothing covering arms and legs; women need a headscarf and full covering.
- Gifts
- Dried fruit or sweets are suitable gifts; never give alcohol.
- Business
- Meetings begin with tea and small talk; punctuality is flexible.
- Tipping
- 5-10% in restaurants.
Useful phrases
A few words go a long way.
Salaam alaikum
Hello
sa-LAAM a-LAY-kum
Tashakor
Thank you
ta-sha-KOR
Chand?
How much?
chand
Bale / Na
Yes / No
BAH-leh / nah
Khoda hafez
Goodbye
kho-DAH ha-FEZ
Religion & spirituality
Understanding faith in Kabul.
Main: Islam (Sunni majority with a Shia minority)
Sites: Pul-e Khishti Mosque, Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque, Id Gah
Holy Days: Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Ashura
Conversations: Avoid debating religion or politics.