20 Things To Do In Kabul (KBL), Afghanistan

Kabul is the capital city of Afghanistan, located in the eastern part of the country. The nearest airport is Hamid Karzai International Airport (IATA: KBL), formerly known as Kabul International Airport. 

Kabul airport serves as a hub for Ariana Afghan Airlines, the national carrier of Afghanistan. Additionally, it serves as a focus city for Kam Air, another Afghan airline.

Regarding US airlines, as of my last update, there were no US airlines operating out of Kabul airport. The situation might have changed since then, especially considering the dynamic nature of international relations and airline operations.

Kabul offers a variety of activities and experiences despite its complex history and current challenges. 

Here are 20 things to do in Kabul, Afghanistan:

1. Visit Babur's Gardens: Enjoy the serene ambiance of the historic gardens laid out by the Mughal Emperor Babur in the early 16th century, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

2. Explore Kabul Museum (National Museum of Afghanistan): Discover Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage at Kabul Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, Buddhist relics, and Islamic art.

3. Shop at Chicken Street (Istiqlal Street): Wander through Chicken Street's bustling markets, known for its traditional Afghan handicrafts, carpets, jewelry, and souvenirs, offering a glimpse into Afghan craftsmanship.

4. Visit the Kabul Zoo: Spend a day with family exploring the Kabul Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals, including lions, monkeys, and birds, with picnic areas and playgrounds for children.

5. Explore Darul Aman Palace: Admire the architectural grandeur of Darul Aman Palace, a symbol of Kabul's tumultuous history, offering panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location.

6. Attend a Cricket Match at Kabul International Cricket Stadium: Experience the excitement of cricket, Afghanistan's favorite sport, by attending a match at the Kabul International Cricket Stadium, where passionate fans cheer for their national team.

7. Visit the Kabul Citadel (Arg): Explore the historic Kabul Citadel, a fortified complex dating back over 2,000 years, with remnants of ancient walls, gates, and structures that reflect Afghanistan's diverse cultural heritage.

8. Attend a Cultural Performance at Kabul University: Immerse yourself in Afghan culture by attending cultural performances, music concerts, and theater productions at Kabul University, showcasing traditional music, dance, and art forms.

9. Explore Kabul Bird Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kabul's Bird Market, where locals gather to buy and sell a variety of birds, cages, and bird-related accessories, offering a unique glimpse into Afghan life.

10. Dine at Kabul's Traditional Restaurants: Indulge in Afghan cuisine at Kabul's traditional restaurants, where you can savor delicious kebabs, pilaf, and naan bread, accompanied by flavorful Afghan tea or coffee.

11. Take a Walking Tour of Kabul's Street Art: Discover Kabul's burgeoning street art scene, with colorful murals, graffiti, and political messages adorning walls and buildings across the city, reflecting Afghan artists' creativity and resilience.

12. Visit the Blue Mosque (Shrine of Hazrat Ali): Pay your respects at the Blue Mosque, a sacred site for Afghan Muslims, housing the shrine of Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.

13. Explore the Kabul River: Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Kabul River, enjoying views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains, or embark on a boat ride for a unique perspective of Kabul.

14. Attend Kabul International Film Festival: Engage with Afghanistan's film industry and cultural scene by attending the Kabul International Film Festival, featuring screenings, discussions, and workshops on Afghan cinema and storytelling.

15. Visit the National Gallery of Afghanistan: Explore contemporary Afghan art at the National Gallery of Afghanistan, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works by local artists, offering insights into Afghan culture and society.

16. Take a Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Afghan dishes like mantu (dumplings), kabuli pulao (rice dish), and bolani (stuffed flatbread) in a cooking class led by local chefs, offering hands-on experience and culinary insights.

17. Attend a Poetry Reading at the Kabul Cultural Center: Experience the poetic tradition of Afghanistan by attending a poetry reading or literary event at the Kabul Cultural Center, where poets and writers gather to share their works and insights.

18. Explore Kabul's Bookstores: Browse through Kabul's bookstores and literary cafes, offering a wide selection of books in Dari, Pashto, and English, including works by Afghan authors, poets, and scholars.

19. Visit the Afghan National Art Gallery: Discover contemporary Afghan art at the Afghan National Art Gallery, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations by local artists, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage.

20. Take a Day Trip to Paghman Gardens: Escape the city's hustle and bustle with a day trip to Paghman Gardens, a scenic retreat nestled in the mountains outside Kabul, offering lush gardens, picnic areas, and natural springs for relaxation and rejuvenation.