Balkh ( Mazar - e - Sharif )

Balkh – The Ancient Land of Poets

Balkh Province, located in northern Afghanistan, is one of the most legendary and historic regions of Central Asia. Known as the “Mother of Cities,” Balkh was once a thriving center of Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and later Islam, serving as the birthplace of great mystics like Jalaluddin Rumi and ancient kings and philosophers. Today, it offers a rich combination of archaeological wonders, spiritual depth, and cultural heritage.

What Makes Balkh Special?

Ancient Roots: Balkh was a major center of learning, spirituality, and commerce for over 2,500 years and is mentioned in Greek, Persian, Indian, and Islamic texts.

Spiritual Heritage: It is the birthplace of Rumi’s father, home to Sufi shrines, and ancient Buddhist stupas—testaments to its multicultural history.

Architectural Treasures: From the Blue Mosque of Mazar-e Sharif to pre-Islamic ruins and Timurid monuments, Balkh reflects a layered and living history.

Vibrant Local Life: The region is known for its silk and carpet industries, traditional cuisine, and northern hospitality

 Top places to visit in Balkh include:

• Shrine of Ali (Rawza Mubarak)

• Ruins of Ancient Balkh City

• Nava Vihara Temple (a major former Buddhist center)

• Traditional bazaars with local handicrafts With its spiritual atmosphere, historic

architecture, and deep cultural heritage,

Balkh is a perfect destination for lovers of history and Eastern culture.

5-Day Historical & Cultural Tour of Balkh Province

Departure: From Kabul (via domestic flight to Mazar-e Sharif)

Transport: 4×4 Vehicles or Comfortable Van

Tour Type: Ancient History, Spiritual Exploration, Local Culture

Day 1: Arrival in Mazar-e Sharif.

• Morning flight from Kabul to Mazar-e Sharif (approx. 1 hour)

• Pickup and check-in at hotel

• Visit the world-renowned Blue Mosque (Shrine of Hazrat Ali) – a stunning example of Islamic architecture

• Explore Rawza Park and surrounding cultural gardens.

• Lunch at a local restaurant with traditional Uzbek-Afghan cuisine.

• Evening stroll in the bazaar and local handicrafts market.

• Overnight stay in a boutique hotel in Mazar.

Day 2: Ancient Balkh – City of a Thousand Stories

• Drive to town (approx. 30 min) – one of the oldest cities in the world

• Visit the ruins of the Buddhist stupa (Tap-e-Rustam) and Zoroastrian Fire Temple

• Explore the Shrine of Rabia Balkhi and Khaja Abu Nasr Parsa Mosque

• Stop by Noh Gonbad (Nine Domes) Mosque – believed to be the oldest Islamic structure in Afghanistan

• Lunch in Balkh village (local bread, kebab, dairy)

• Optional visit to a local Sufi gathering or poetry reading

Day 3: Rural Life & Handicrafts

• Visit Khulm (Tashkurgan) – a historical town with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

• Stop at local workshops producing carpets, silk scarves, and ceramics.

• Light hike to nearby hill for panoramic views of Balkh valley.

• Lunch in a local restaurant – participate in bread-baking or food preparation.

• Visit ancient caravanserai and water channels (qanats).

• Return to hotel for evening rest.

• Dinner in a traditional chaikhana (teahouse).

Day 4: Cultural Exploration & Art

• Tour of Mazar Cultural Museum and Calligraphy School.

• Visit the Donkey Bazaar – a unique and colorful traditional market.

• Explore Marmul or Dehdadi district (optional) for rural interaction.

• Stop for saffron or raisin farm tour (seasonal).

• Cultural evening at a local center with music and folklore.

• Dinner and final night in Mazar.

  
  

Day 5: Return to Kabul

• Morning free time for shopping (carpets, crafts, antiques).

• Transfer to Mazar Airport and flight back to Kabul.

• Arrival in Kabul by afternoon.

Included Services:

Domestic flight (Kabul–Mazar roundtrip)

Comfortable private transport

3 meals per day (with water and snacks)

Entry to all historical and cultural sites

Local expert guide (English-speaking)

Guesthouse or hotel accommodations

Cultural evening

Support for photography and local interaction