Home › Destinations › Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif, افغانستان - Things to Do in Mazar-i-Sharif

Things to Do in Mazar-i-Sharif

Mazar-i-Sharif, افغانستان - Complete Travel Guide

Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of Balkh Province in northern Afghanistan, is one of the country's most significant religious and cultural centers. The city is renowned for the magnificent Blue Mosque (Shrine of Hazrat Ali), with its stunning blue-tiled dome and minarets that dominate the skyline. This sacred site attracts pilgrims from across the Islamic world and serves as the spiritual heart of the city. Beyond its religious importance, Mazar-i-Sharif offers visitors a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich history and vibrant culture. The city serves as a major trading hub connecting Central Asia with South Asia, creating a unique blend of cultures, languages, and traditions. The surrounding Balkh region, known as the 'Mother of Cities,' contains archaeological treasures and historical sites that date back thousands of years, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in ancient civilizations and Islamic architecture.

Top Things to Do in Mazar-i-Sharif

Visit the Blue Mosque Complex

Explore the magnificent Shrine of Hazrat Ali, famous for its stunning blue-tiled architecture and spiritual significance. The complex includes beautiful courtyards, intricate Islamic calligraphy, and peaceful gardens where pilgrims and visitors gather. The mosque is particularly spectacular during sunrise and sunset when the blue tiles shimmer in the changing light.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but dress modestly and respect prayer times. Best visited early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid crowds. Consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to understand the historical and religious significance.

Explore Ancient Balkh Ruins

Discover the archaeological remains of ancient Balkh, once a major city on the Silk Road and birthplace of Zoroaster. The site features remnants of ancient walls, Buddhist stupas, and Islamic monuments spanning over 2,000 years of history. The ruins offer insight into the region's role as a crossroads of civilizations.

Booking Tip: Arrange transportation through your hotel for $20-30 for a half-day trip. Entry fee is around $5. Best visited in cooler months and bring sun protection as there's limited shade. Local guides available for $15-20.

Experience Traditional Bazaars

Wander through the vibrant local markets selling everything from traditional carpets and handicrafts to spices and local produce. The bazaars offer an authentic glimpse into daily Afghan life and provide opportunities to purchase unique souvenirs and interact with local merchants. The carpet section is particularly renowned for high-quality Afghan rugs.

Booking Tip: No booking required, but bring cash in local currency. Best visited in morning hours (8-11 AM) when selection is freshest. Bargaining is expected - start at 50% of asking price. Budget $20-100 for quality handicrafts.

Visit Local Museums and Cultural Sites

Explore regional museums showcasing Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage, including ancient artifacts, traditional clothing, and historical exhibits. These institutions provide context for the area's significance in Central Asian history and Islamic culture. Many feature collections of local archaeological finds and traditional crafts.

Booking Tip: Museum entry fees typically $3-5. Open usually 9 AM-4 PM, closed Fridays. Photography may require additional fee of $2-5. Consider combining with other cultural sites for a full day experience.

Attend Local Festivals and Celebrations

Experience traditional Afghan celebrations, particularly during Nowruz (Persian New Year) when the city comes alive with festivities around the Blue Mosque. These events feature traditional music, dancing, poetry recitations, and local cuisine. The celebrations offer unique insight into Afghan culture and community life.

Booking Tip: Free to attend public celebrations. Nowruz season (March 20-21) is peak time but book accommodation well in advance. Respect local customs and dress codes. Consider hiring a cultural guide for $20-25 to navigate events appropriately.

Getting There

Mazar-i-Sharif is accessible via Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, which receives domestic flights from Kabul and limited international connections. The most common route for international visitors is flying into Kabul and taking a connecting domestic flight (about 1 hour) or driving overland (approximately 5-6 hours). The city is also reachable by road from neighboring countries like Uzbekistan through the Friendship Bridge at Hairatan, though border crossing requirements change frequently and should be verified in advance.

Getting Around

Local transportation in Mazar-i-Sharif includes taxis, auto-rickshaws, and shared minibuses called 'sarai.' Taxis are the most comfortable option for visitors, with short rides costing $2-5 and longer trips around $10-15. Many attractions are within walking distance of the city center, particularly around the Blue Mosque area. For visits to outlying sites like ancient Balkh, hiring a private car with driver for the day costs $30-50 and is the most practical option.

Where to Stay

City Center near Blue Mosque
Balkh Road area
Airport vicinity
University district
Commercial district
Hairatan Road area

Food & Dining

Mazar-i-Sharif's culinary scene centers around traditional Afghan cuisine, with the city being famous for its pilaf (rice dishes) and kebabs. Local restaurants serve specialties like qabuli pilaf, mantu (steamed dumplings), and fresh naan bread baked in traditional tandoor ovens. Most dining establishments are simple, family-run operations offering authentic flavors at very reasonable prices ($3-8 per meal). Tea houses are popular gathering spots serving green tea with local sweets and providing opportunities to experience Afghan hospitality.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Afghanistan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Afghan Horsemen Restaurant

4.5 /5
(2345 reviews) 2

Khyber Pass Restaurant

4.6 /5
(1973 reviews) 2

Afghan Hayat Restaurant

4.6 /5
(1642 reviews) 2

Kabul Afghan Cuisine

4.6 /5
(1354 reviews) 2

Afghan Restaurant

4.7 /5
(1219 reviews) 1

Buzkashi Restaurant

4.9 /5
(1141 reviews) 2
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Mazar-i-Sharif is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. Spring is particularly special as it coincides with Nowruz celebrations around the Blue Mosque. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), while winters (December-February) can be quite cold with occasional snow. The shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and the best conditions for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Dari or Pashto greetings as English is limited outside tourist areas
Always dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites - long sleeves and pants are essential
Carry cash in Afghan Afghanis as credit cards are rarely accepted and ATMs may be unreliable

Explore Activities in Mazar-i-Sharif