2025 Bamyan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

We chartered a car from Kabul to Bamiyan. The driver invited a local translator to join us. In just two days, we had many adventures along the way. By chance, we were invited to visit a local family. The whole family came out to greet us with great hospitality. Wearing a Mamian skirt to Bamiyan, we were praised for our beautiful clothes along the way. The brother and sister came with us to the Buddhas of Bamiyan. They were even able to say that the Eastern Buddha was 38m tall and the Western Buddha was 55m tall. They learn about the history of Bamiyan in their history textbooks. The Bamiyan Valley was once a Buddhist holy land. The Chinese Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang arrived in Bamiyan in 630 AD. In the Great Tang Records on the Western Regions, he recorded the prosperity of this place. They said that they could see the Buddha statues from afar since they were children. But they had never seen them up close before. After the Buddha statues were destroyed, only empty caves remained. People all over the world were heartbroken and saddened by the destruction of the Buddhas of Bamiyan. For the people of Bamiyan, this regret will be a permanent wound. Now the Taleban have piled up the broken pieces of the Buddha statues to one side, surrounded them, and are charging admission. And in the Buddha caves, you can still see the remaining traces… On second thought, nothing in this world is eternal. They destroyed the Buddha statues, but made more people aware of the Buddhas of Bamiyan. The true Buddha is never bound by solemn appearances. Every pair of eyes that has gazed upon it will see compassion in its destruction. Isn't this also a kind of Nirvana…

#wecreate Band-e-Amir is a must visit place in Afganistan. It is extremely beautiful and fascinating. The lake is one of the bluest lake I have ever seen in life. You can even rent a peddle boat (300AFN for foreigners) for 2 hour. The scenery is absolutely beautiful, however some people throw rubbish around which is really disappointing . I strongly recommend to bring enough water and apply sunscreen in sunmer

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 The Bamiyan Buddhas, located in the Bamiyan Valley in central Afghanistan, were once one of the most magnificent and revered archaeological sites in the world. Carved into the cliffs of the Hindu Kush Mountains, these massive statues are symbols of Afghanistan's rich cultural and religious history. The statues date back to the sixth century and depict two colossal Buddha images, 55 meters and 37 meters tall, making them among the largest in the world. The Bamiyan Buddhas represent a fusion of Gandharan and Buddhist art, testifying to Afghanistan’s role as a crossroads of trade, culture, and religion, where Buddhist influence flourished. The sculptures, along with the surrounding caves and murals, vividly depict a prosperous, peaceful society where Buddhism flourished long before the region converted to Islam. Although destroyed, the Bamiyan Buddhas still have profound cultural, historical and symbolic significance. Its once towering presence in the Bamiyan Valley is a testament to the region's rich Buddhist heritage and its importance on the ancient Silk Road. The destruction of the statue in 2001 was a devastating loss not only for Afghanistan but also for the international community, as it marked the erasure of an important part of humanity’s shared history. Yet the site remains a symbol of resilience, with ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the area and its history. Today, the remains of the Bamiyan Buddhas continue to draw attention to the importance of cultural preservation, and despite the challenges facing the region, the site serves as a reminder of the enduring value of history, art, and heritage. It is a powerful reminder of the need to protect cultural sites and ensure that future generations can bear witness to the richness of our shared past.

#getgoing2025 The Bamiyan Valley in central Afghanistan is a region of profound historical and cultural significance, renowned for its ancient Buddhist heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Situated approximately 240 kilometers northwest of Kabul, the valley lies at an elevation of about 2,550 meters (8,370 feet) above sea level, nestled within the Hindu Kush mountain range. Historical Significance: From the 2nd to the 9th centuries CE, Bamiyan served as a pivotal Buddhist center along the Silk Road, facilitating cultural and religious exchanges between East and West. The valley was adorned with monumental Buddha statues carved into the cliffs, with the larger statue standing at 55 meters and the smaller at 38 meters. These statues were tragically destroyed by the Taliban in 2001. Cultural Heritage: The Bamiyan Valley is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its exceptional representation of Gandharan Buddhist art and culture. The site comprises eight components, including caves with painted decorations and Buddha statues carved into the cliffs. Visiting Information: While the region has faced challenges in recent years, efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote its cultural heritage. Travelers interested in visiting should consult current travel advisories and local guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful experience. A visit to the Bamiyan Valley offers a unique opportunity to explore a region where history, culture, and natural beauty converge, providing insights into Afghanistan’s rich and diverse heritage.

The nature beauty of the Band E Amir lakes are stunning at the National park. Blue lakes were created by the natural dam in Hindu Kush. Lakes are formed from the mineral rich water that seeped out of faults and cracks in rocky landscape. The colour of the lakes are so.....clear and in blue colour. Nice and relax places to have picnic here .#attraction -Band-e Amir National park

Just got back from an incredible trip to the Bamiyan Valley in Afghanistan, and it was an experience I'll never forget! 🌄 The valley is absolutely stunning with its towering cliffs and rich history. There's no entrance fee to explore the valley itself, but some sites may ask for a small donation. The highlight, of course, was seeing the niches where the giant Buddhas once stood. Even though the statues are no longer there, the sense of history and spirituality is overwhelming. Nearby, the Band-e-Amir National Park is a must-see with its crystal-clear lakes and dramatic scenery. The town of Bamiyan offers some cozy guesthouses and local eateries where you can try traditional Afghan food. I also visited the ancient city of Shahr-e Gholghola, which offers spectacular views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Despite its past, the Bamiyan Valley is a place of peace and beauty, and the local people are incredibly welcoming. If you love history and breathtaking landscapes, this is a destination you shouldn't miss. #BamiyanValley #Afghanistan #HistoricSites #NaturalBeauty 🌄🕌