If you’ve been captivated by the quiet beauty of Afghanistan and Kabul’s vp.babur’s Gardens (Bagh-e-Babur), chances are you’re eager to explore more of this historic and living city. Sher Darwaza, nestled in the foothills of the mountains, and Babur’s Gardens are the perfect starting point for a series of day trips—whether you want to delve deeper into Afghan history, connect with the local culture, or just enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
This post is your best iteration of the best day trips from Babur’s Gardens, designed with American travelers in mind. You’ll find a mix of historic sites, cultural experiences, and local markets and nature spots—all within just a few hours’ drive from the beach near downtown Kabul.
🌿 A Brief Description: Why the Gardens of Babur Are Special
The Gardens of Babur, or Bagh-e Babur, is a 16th-century paradise garden built by Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire. It’s not just a park; it’s a symbol of Kabul’s important history and a peaceful retreat amid the urban bustle. Once you’ve seen its tree-lined paths, terraces and gardens, running water pools and Babur’s restored tomb, it’s time to get out.
Let’s hit the road—Afghanistan-style.
🕌 1. Historic Bala Hissar Fort
📍 Distance from Babur’s Gardens: 10-15 minutes by car
Why go:
A massive and ancient citadel that sits high above Kabul, the Bala Hissar (“High Fort”) offers stunning views of the city. And it has served as a military stronghold, royal residence and battleground for centuries.
What to do:
- Explore its restored outer walls and towers
- Tour the newly restored building inside
- Take amazing photos overlooking Kabul
- And learn about its Mughal, British and Afghan military history
Travel tip:
If possible, go with the guards, as the area of the fort is rich in stories and historical depth. And then there may be a security check at the gate.
🛍️ 2. Chicken Street and Shahr-e Naw Bazaar
📍 Distance from Babur’s Gardens: 15-20 minutes by car
Why go:
If you’re looking for souvenirs, art or to experience the shopping scene of Kabul of old, then Chicken Street is the perfect place to go. Historically a hippie hangout in the 1960s and 70s, it’s now a quiet, and still charming, shopping street.
What to do:
- Buy Afghan carpets, jewelry, and lapis lazuli and miniature paintings
- Sip tea at the local tea house
- Try to haggle (in English or with the help of the guards)
- Explore the side streets filled with leather goods and secondhand goods
Food recommendation:
Get a quick bolani (stuffed flatbread) or kebab from someone nearby. It’s safe, filling, and incredibly delicious.
🏛️ 3. National Museum of Afghanistan
📍 Distance from the Gardens of Babur: 10 minutes by car
Why go:
A treasure trove of cultural history as big as Afghanistan, the National Museum houses everything from Greco-Bactrian artifacts to Islamic calligraphy and Buddhist sculptures.
What to do:
- Admire ancient coins, royal insignia and warrior armour
- Learn how the Silk Road shaped Afghan culture
- See artifacts created by local artists and historians
- Combine your trip with a visit to the Gardens of Babur for a full history-themed day
🕌 4. Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque
📍 Distance: 15 minutes by car
Why go:
Now located near the Kabul River, this mesmerizing yellow mosque is unique in its architecture – inspired by Italian Baroque design, and it almost looks like something out of Europe rather than Central Asia.
What to do:
- Marvel at the two-story mosque with its subtle materials and soft colors
- And take photos from across the river to get the perfect shot
- Explore the people’s area around the mosque
- Stop at bakeries selling fresh bread and sweet pastries
⛰️ 5. Qargha Lake and Reservoir
📍 Distance: 45 minutes to 1 hour by car
Why go:
Need to get your breath of fresh air? Then Qargha Lake is Kabul’s favorite spot for picnics, paddle boating, and sunset viewing. And this is where locals go to relax almost every weekend, and it’s easy to understand why.
What to do:
- Rent a paddleboat or ride a mini ferry
- Walk along the shoreline and then visit the tea shops on the nearby hillside
- And enjoy a local-style lunch of grilled fish or kebabs
- Or watch the kite flyers, especially on weekdays
Pro tip:
Weekdays are quiet. And if you want to relax by the lake, watching the sun rise, bring a light jacket (the weather changes quickly) and a picnic blanket.
🏞️ 6. Paghman Valley
📍 Distance: 1.5 hours by car
Why go:
Paghman is one of Afghanistan’s most beloved and scenic regions, with tree-lined streets, fruit orchards and views of the Hindu Kush mountains.
What to do:
- And now visit the Paghman Arch, modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
- And explore the Paghman Gardens and the nearby royal retreat
- Then walk along the wildflower-covered paths or take a relaxing nature walk
- Enjoy traditional and Afghan food at a roadside hotel
Best season to visit:
Spring and summer (March to August) when everything is in full bloom.
📚 7. Darul Aman Palace and Tajbeg Palace
Distance: 30 minutes by car
Why visit:
And both palaces represent the traditional and purposeful state of Afghanistan in the early 20th century. The restored Darul Aman Palace is now an architectural landmark, while the nearby Tajbeg Palace offers a quiet place to feel good.
What to do:
Tour the palace halls (limited access; check first)
And learn about King Amanullah Khan’s vision for modern Afghanistan
Take beautiful photos of the palaces and surrounding grounds
History buffs' heads up:
This is a perfect combination with the National Palace, which is located nearby. It’s now a perfect (golden triangle) of Afghan history from the modern to the present.
🎨 8. Turquoise Mountain Arts Institute
📍 Distance: 10-15 minutes from the Gardens of Babur
Why go:
Located in the Murad Khani neighborhood of the Old City, this institute is part of an international effort to revive traditional Afghan arts and crafts.
What to do:
Watch artisans carve wood, paint or make handmade jewelry Or talk to the artists directly, buy handmade souvenirs or signs Or tour historic buildings outside with a guard Learn about the community-run Deception Project
Feel good factor:
You’re directly supporting Afghan cultural preservation and the families of the people who work there.
🧭 How to plan your day trip
Transport:
- Private driver or tour guard: Best for comfort and safety
- Taxi services: Now widely available, but best used with a guard
- Walking: It’s possible to get to the mosque or nearby sites like Chicken Street
- Safety note: Always check the local security advisory before you travel
If you’re unfamiliar with the city, take a tour with a guard or a fixer Take day trips only and avoid going far away alone
Essentials to bring:
- Passport and a copy of your visa
- Bottled water and sunscreen
- Light snacks or a packed lunch
- Camera or phone with offline maps
A scarf or shawl (especially for visiting mosques)
🧡 A few last things: From Babur's Gardens to the Soul of Afghanistan
Babur’s Gardens is more than just a historical site – it’s a testament to Kabul’s past, An ideal base for exploring the present and the future. Every day’s tour offers a different perspective on Afghan life, from royal palaces and mountain lakes to artisan workshops and bustling bazaars.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a photographer or a curious traveller, there’s so much to see in Kabul – and it all starts with a stroll among the roses and cypress trees of the Gardens of Babur.
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