Things To Do
in Sharan
Sharan is the capital city of Paktia Province in Afghanistan, characterized by its stunning mountainous landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city serves as a vital economic hub for the region, with a blend of traditional Afghan architecture and modern influences. Sharan is known for its welcoming atmosphere and the warmth of its local people.
Visitors can experience a unique glimpse into Afghan culture and history while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local bazaar where you can experience the hustle and bustle of Sharan's market life. Enjoy a traditional Afghan breakfast at a local café.
Visit the historic Sharan Mosque and learn about its significance in the community. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby gardens to relax.
End your day with dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Afghan dishes, followed by a walk through the illuminated streets.
Take a short drive to the foothills for a morning hike, soaking in the natural beauty of the Paktia landscape.
Return to Sharan for a visit to the local museum that showcases artifacts from the region's history, including items from the ancient Silk Road.
Conclude your trip with a cultural performance featuring traditional Afghan music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $10-20 |
| 🚌Local transport fare | $0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Stunning natural landscapes.
- Welcoming local community.
- Safety concerns due to regional instability.
- Limited modern amenities.
- Language barrier for non-Dari speakers.
- "سلام" - Hello
- "خداحافظ" - Goodbye
- "تشکر" - Thank you
- "بله" - Yes
- "نه" - No
Places to Visit in Sharan
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning example of traditional Afghan architecture, with intricate tile work and a serene atmosphere.
The surrounding mountains provide breathtaking backdrops for landscape photography.
Capture the vibrant colors and lively scenes of daily life in the bustling marketplace.
Food in Sharan
Sharan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with lamb, raisins, and carrots.
Must-Try!
Dumplings filled with meat and onions, served with yogurt and a tomato sauce.
A traditional pilaf made with seasoned rice, meat, and topped with fried carrots and raisins.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local street food items.
Various vendors selling kebabs, samosas, and sweet pastries throughout the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Understanding and respecting local customs, especially regarding hospitality and greetings, is crucial.
Visitors should dress conservatively to align with local cultural norms.
A handshake is common, but it's polite to wait for a local to extend their hand first.
Safety
Tipping in Sharan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Cash is the primary payment method; credit cards are rarely accepted, so it’s essential to carry local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a pleasant time to explore the outdoors.
Hot weather can be expected, so plan indoor activities during peak hours and hydrate frequently.
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
Cold weather can be severe; snow is common, especially in the mountains, making it ideal for winter sports.
Sharan at Night
Hiking in Sharan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail in the Khost Valley, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore local flora.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Airports
How to reach Sharan by plane.
Located about 30 km from Sharan, Gardez Airport primarily serves military and humanitarian flights but can be a point of entry for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sharan, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.
A significant minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity through language and customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Afghan sport similar to polo, where horse-mounted players compete to drag a goat's carcass across a field.
Football is immensely popular, with local teams playing in community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sharan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Afghan dishes often include meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes.
All food in Sharan is halal, but it’s advisable to confirm with vendors about preparation.