
Major Highways & Driving Tips in Kandahār, Kandahār, Afghanistan
1. Highway A01 (Kandahar-Herat Highway)
The main road connecting Kandahar to Herat, offering a scenic drive through the Afghan countryside. Crucial for travelers venturing westward.
- Potential Roadblocks: Be aware of possible Taliban checkpoints and security risks.
- Road Conditions: Roads can be rough and poorly maintained; plan for potential delays.
- Travel Companions: It is not safe to travel alone on this route.
2. Kandahar-Spin Boldak (Torkham) Highway
An essential highway leading to Pakistan via the Spin Boldak border crossing. A vital route for international travel and commerce.
- Border Formalities: Expect long waits at the border due to immigration and customs procedures.
- Security: The route can be dangerous; traveling with a trusted local guide is advisable.
- Pakistan Currency Exchange: Have Pakistani Rupees ready before crossing the border as exchange rates might be unfavorable at the border.
3. Ring Road (Kandahar City)
The main traffic artery within Kandahar city, connecting key attractions and marketplaces. Crucial for local travel.
- Traffic Congestion: Heavy traffic can lead to significant delays during rush hours.
- Road Quality: The road might be bumpy and in poor condition in some areas.
- Driving Culture: Be aware of aggressive driving behaviors and lack of traffic rules in Kandahar city.
4. Highway A02 (Kandahar-Helmand Highway)
A crucial road connecting Kandahar to the southern provinces of Helmand and Uruzgan. Useful for travelers exploring these regions.
- Security Risks: The route can be dangerous due to Taliban presence; always drive with caution.
- Road Conditions: The road is often unpaved and in poor condition, potentially causing travel delays.
- Local Guides: Hiring a local guide for this journey can enhance safety and provide cultural insight.
5. Arghandab River Bridge
A strategic bridge spanning the Arghandab River in Kandahar. Important for travelers crossing this natural barrier.
- River Flooding: Be aware of flood risks during monsoon seasons; check local weather updates before crossing.
- Maintenance: The bridge may be subject to maintenance or repair, potentially causing temporary closures.
- Security Checkpoints: Expect Taliban checkpoints near the bridge; drive cautiously and comply with their instructions.
6. Shaikh Zayed Highway (Kandahar-Ghazni Highway)
A vital road leading from Kandahar to the eastern provinces of Ghazni and Logar. Useful for travelers venturing eastward.
- Security Concerns: The route can be dangerous due to Taliban activity; always drive with caution.
- Road Conditions: Expect bumpy and poorly maintained roads, potentially causing delays in travel.
- Local Guides: Hiring a local guide for this journey can enhance safety and provide cultural insight.
7. Kandahar Airport
The primary airport serving Kandahar city, connecting it to major cities both domestically and internationally.
- Airport Security: Be aware of potential security risks; comply with all airport procedures.
- Flight Delays: Expect delays due to weather, political instability, or technical issues.
- Transportation from Airport: Pre-arrange for airport transportation or plan ahead for local taxi services.
8. Ghazni Highway (Kandahar-Kabul Highway)
A major road connecting Kandahar to the capital city of Kabul via the Ghazni province. Useful for travelers headed northward.
- Security Risks: The route can be dangerous due to Taliban presence; always drive with caution.
- Road Conditions: Expect bumpy and poorly maintained roads, potentially causing delays in travel.
- Local Guides: Hiring a local guide for this journey can enhance safety and provide cultural insight.
9. Kandahar City Markets
Vibrant bazaars offering a variety of local goods, including carpets, textiles, and handicrafts.
- Haggling: Prices are often negotiable; haggle to get the best deals.
- Crowds: Markets can be crowded and chaotic, making navigation challenging.
- Scams: Be wary of scammers attempting to overcharge or trick tourists.
10. Stadium Zaranj Road
A key road connecting Kandahar city to the border town of Zaranj, leading towards Iran.
- Border Formalities: Expect long waits at the border due to immigration and customs procedures.
- Security: The route can be dangerous; traveling with a trusted local guide is advisable.
- Iranian Currency Exchange: Have Iranian Rial ready before crossing the border as exchange rates might be unfavorable at the border.
11. Grand Mosque of Kandahar
A significant landmark in Kandahar city, featuring stunning architecture and historical importance.
- Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly to show respect for local customs.
- Security: Be aware of potential security risks; comply with all on-site procedures.
- Guided Tours: A guided tour can provide valuable historical and cultural insights.
12. Arghestan Palace
A historical palace in Kandahar city, showcasing the region's rich heritage.
- Restoration Efforts: The palace is currently undergoing restoration; accessibility may be limited.
- Security: Be aware of potential security risks; comply with all on-site procedures.
- Guided Tours: A guided tour can provide valuable historical and cultural insights.
13. Maiwand Battlefield
Historic site commemorating the Maiwand Battle, a significant event in Afghanistan's history.
- Accessibility: The battlefield can be difficult to reach due to poor road conditions.
- Security: Be aware of potential security risks; comply with all on-site procedures.
- Guided Tours: A guided tour can provide valuable historical and cultural insights.
14. Mahmud Tarzi Mausoleum
Tomb of Mahmud Tarzi, a prominent Afghan intellectual and journalist, located in Kandahar city.
- Accessibility: The mausoleum may be difficult to find due to its location off the main road.
- Security: Be aware of potential security risks; comply with all on-site procedures.
- Guided Tours: A guided tour can provide valuable historical and cultural insights.
15. Moshtarak-e Milli Bazaar
One of the largest markets in Kandahar city, offering a wide array of goods and services.
- Haggling: Prices are often negotiable; haggle to get the best deals.
- Crowds: Markets can be crowded and chaotic, making navigation challenging.
- Scams: Be wary of scammers attempting to overcharge or trick tourists.