Small, long-established lodge in Shahr-e Naw with a garden, popular with journalists and aid workers and run in a guesthouse style.
Gandamack Lodge is a small, long-established guesthouse-style lodge in Shahr-e Naw, the central district of Kabul, Afghanistan. Its name recalls the Anglo-Afghan wars, and the property has built a reputation over the years as a base for journalists, aid workers and long-stay visitors who prefer a compact, personal setting to a large hotel. It sits within a short drive of the main shopping streets, government offices and embassies, and the airport is typically 20 to 30 minutes away by road depending on traffic.
The atmosphere is informal and residential. A garden forms the heart of the property, and the buildings around it hold a limited number of rooms, offered as Single and Double categories. Nightly rates of roughly 7,000 to 10,000 AFN ($100-145) place it in the upper mid-range for Kabul, reflecting the secure compound, steady services and central position. The lodge lists wifi, a restaurant, a garden and airport pickup among its amenities.
Dining is a significant part of the lodge's identity. The restaurant and garden have been a meeting place for the city's international community, serving Afghan and international dishes in a relaxed setting, and breakfast is typically part of the stay. Visitors should check current arrangements for non-guest access and alcohol-related policies, as these are subject to local rules and change over time.
The lodge does not have a pool, spa or conference facilities. Instead its appeal lies in scale and familiarity: staff come to know regular guests, and the small number of rooms creates a quieter environment than in the larger hotels. It suits solo travellers, researchers and professionals on extended assignments. Those wanting resort amenities or large event space will be better served elsewhere in the capital.
| Price | $$$ |
|---|---|
| Address | Shahr-e Naw, Kabul, Afghanistan |
Room types
- Single Room
- Double Room
Amenities
- restaurant
- garden
- wifi
- airport pickup
Location
Shahr-e Naw, Kabul, Afghanistan
34.5322, 69.1735 View on map
Highlights
- Small, long-established lodge in central Shahr-e Naw
- Garden setting popular with journalists and aid workers
- Guesthouse atmosphere with a limited number of rooms
- On-site restaurant, wifi and airport pickup
Tips for visiting
- Book early; the small room count means limited availability.
- Arrange airport pickup in advance through the lodge.
- Confirm current dining and visitor access rules before arrival.
- Ask about longer-stay arrangements if staying more than a week.
When to visit
Spring and autumn are the most pleasant for using the garden; evenings in summer are comfortable outdoors.
Accessibility
A small guesthouse layout with garden paths may involve steps and uneven surfaces, so wheelchair users should confirm room and entrance arrangements with the lodge before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Gandamack Lodge?
The lodge is in the Shahr-e Naw district of central Kabul, within a short drive of shops, offices and embassies.
What kind of guests stay there?
It is known as a base for journalists, aid workers and other long-stay visitors who prefer a guesthouse setting.
What room types are available?
The lodge offers Single and Double rooms, with rates of roughly 7,000 to 10,000 AFN ($100-145).
Is there a garden?
Yes. A garden is a central feature of the lodge and part of its dining and social space.