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.
Top day trips
Handpicked excursions within easy reach.
Paghman
Cool hill town with royal-era gardens, chestnut groves and a triumphal arch; a summer retreat for Kabul families.
Highlights: Paghman Gardens · Triumphal Arch · Mountain views
Istalif
Terraced village famed for blue and green glazed pottery, mulberry orchards and view of the Shomali plain.
Highlights: Pottery workshops · Mulberry orchards · Shomali views
Qargha Lake
Reservoir with a lakeside promenade, boat hire and restaurants, the easiest half-day outing.
Highlights: Boating · Lakeside lunch · Hills views
Lake Surobi
Turquoise reservoir in the Kabul river gorge on the Jalalabad road, popular for picnics.
Highlights: Turquoise reservoir · River gorge scenery
Mir Bacha Kot
Shomali-plain town known for vineyards and grape harvests in September.
Highlights: Vineyards · Grape harvest · Valley views
Trips by distance
How far you can go in a day.
Getting there
Transport options for day trips.
- Private
- Private car with driver arranged through the hotel, 2,500-5,000 AFN ($35-70) per day.
- Public
- Shared taxis leave from city terminals when full but are not advised for visitors.
- Tours
- No structured tour operators; hotels arrange cars.
- Rental
- Self-drive is not advised.
Day trip tips
Make the most of your excursions.
Return to Kabul by mid-afternoon.
Carry the permission letter at every checkpoint.
Tell the hotel your route and expected return time.