AFGHANISTAN
Geographical Region: Asia
It is strategically located at the crossroads of Ventral and South Asia, sometimes also considered part of the Middle East due to its historical and cultural ties. Its unique geographical position has made it a significant transit route for trade, migration, and military campaigns throughout history.
Being landlocked means Afghanistan relies on its neighbours for trade routes and access to the sea, making regional stability and good relations crucial for its economy.
The most defining feature of Afghanistan’s geography is its mountainous terrain.
Afghanistan shares boarders with six counties: Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China.
-Pakistan to the east and south
-Iran to the west
-Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north
-China to the far northeast
Climate: Continental
Generally characterised by hot, dry summers and very cold, often snowy winters, especially in the mountain areas. Rainfall is rare in many regions, making water management a critical aspect of life.
Capital: Kabul
It is the largest city in Afghanistan and holds a rich history, serving as significant centre along the ancient Silk Road. It is located in a narrow valley in the Hindu Kush Mountain range, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.
Currency: Afghan Afghani (AFN)
Economy: Fragile and Aid-Dependent
Afghanistan’s economy has historically been underdeveloped, agrarian, and very much reliant on foreign aid, particularly before August 2021.
It has endured unprecedented economic shocks and instability following the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, triggering a severe economic crisis.
Key Economic Sectors: Agriculture, Mining, and Manufacturing
1.Agriculture
-Main Products: Wheat, rice, barley, fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
-Livestock: Sheep, cattle, and goats.
-Challenges: The sector is vulnerable to droughts, lack of moder irrigation, and sufficient mechanisation.
2.Mining
-Minerals: Natural gas, iron, copper, lithium, gold, cobalt, bauxite, rare earth elements, and precious stones like lapis lazuli.
-Challenges: Utilization has been severely hindered by decades of conflict, lack of infrastructure, security issues, corruption, and the absence of large-scale foreign investment.
3.Manufacturing
Products: Textiles, cement, sugar, vegetable oil, furniture, soap, shoes, and handwoven carpets.
Challenges: Limited domestic demand, landlocked location, mountainous terrain, and lack of capital.
Official Languages: Dari and Pashto
Population: 42.6 million (Estimated as of mid-2024)
-High Growth Rate: Approximately 2.1% to 2.8% annually, driven by high birth rates.
-Very Young Population: Median age is approximately 17.3 years (as of 2025). This is one of the lowest in the world. Approximately 43% of the population is under 15 years of age.
-High Fertility Rate: The total fertility rate is estimated at around 4.7 births per woman (as of 2025).
-Life Expectancy: Low, due to ongoing conflict, limited access to healthcare, and poverty. Afghanistan is facing significant challenges in child survival, with high rates of infant and under-5 mortality.
-Rural Dominance: Approximately 74% of the population, live in rural areas, with urbanisation rates remaining low.
-Low Literacy Rate: Overall literacy for ages 15 and above was around 37% in 2021/2022.
Challenges and Implications
Poverty and Food Insecurity
Rapidly growing young population, struggling economy, and reduced foreign aid intensifies the humanitarian crisis and exacerbates poverty and food insecurity for millions.
Employment
Creating sufficient jobs for large influx of young people is an enormous challenge.
Education and Healthcare
Adequate education and healthcare services to a growing population, especially with limited resources and infrastructure, is a persistent struggle.
Brain Drain
Instability and lack of opportunities leads to the emigration of educated and skilled individuals, further hindering development.
Humanitarian Aid
The country remains heavily reliant on humanitarian aid to meet the basic needs of its vulnerable population.
Religion: Muslim, with Islam being the official state religion
National Food: Kabuli Pulao
It is a fragrant and rich rice dish, often considered a centrepiece of Afghan cuisine. Its key characteristics include:
-Basmati Rice (long-grain)
-Tender Meat (most commonly lamb shanks or shoulder)
-Caramelised Carrots and Raisins (signature topping, adds colour / sweetness)
-Spices (such as cumin, cardamom, and sometimes char masala)
National Animal: Snow Leopard (Panthera Uncia)
Well-adapted to the cold and mountainous terrain, may be found in most of the country, especially the Hindu Kush range. It symbolises the countries resilience, independence, and the majestic yet challenging nature of its landscapes.
National Flower: Tulip
Often associated with the Netherlands, but actually native to Afghanistan and surrounding regions. It holds a significant cultural and symbolic meaning in Afghanistan, often representing love, purity, and beauty.
National Sport: Buzkashi
It is an ancient equestrian sport deeply ingrained in Afghan culture, often described as a combination of polo and rugby, but with a unique and intense twist: horse-mounted players compete to gain control of a headless goat or calf carcass and then carry it to a designated goal.
Is it worth a visit?
Afghanistan is an incredible country with rich history, stunning natural beauty, and deeply welcoming culture. However, due to the current ongoing volatile security situation major governments, including UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, currently advise against all travel to Afghanistan.
As it stands there is a high threat of terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and widespread violation of human rights. Foreigners, including tourists, are considered legitimate targets.
Despite travel to Afghanistan not being advisable under the current conditions, it is definitely somewhere to keep in mind in the future and visit when it is safe to do so.
Landmarks worth a peek!
1.Bamiyan Valley
While the colossal Buddha statues were tragically destroyed in 2001, the cliffs carved with ancient monasteries, caves, and remnants of Buddhist art still hold and the natural beauty of the valley itself is captivating.
2.Band-e Amir National Park
Afghanistan’s first national park, known for its six stunning, deep-blue lakes formed by natural dams of travertine. The vibrant colours of the lakes against the arid, mountainous landscape are breathtaking.
3.Herat
Historic city in western Afghanistan, known for its beautiful Islamic architecture, particularly the Masjid-e Jame Herat with its exquisite turquoise mosaics.
4.Mazar-i-Sharif
Located in northern Afghanistan, this is one of the most revered and beautiful mosques in the Islamic world. Its intricate blue tilework and spiritual significance make it a very powerful site.
5.Minaret of Jam
This towering, 12th-century minaret, standing over 60 meters tall, is an architectural marvel decorated with intricate brickwork and Quranic inspirations. It is the only remaining structure of the lost city of Firuzkuh.
6.Panjshir Valley
Known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged mountains and its historical significance as a stronghold resistance.
7.Kabul
Last but not least the capital city, with sites like the Babur Gardens, which is the resting place of the first Mughal emperor, Babur and the National Museum of Afghanistan which despite the losses due to conflict, still holds vast important artifacts.
Best time to go: (Assuming a safe environment for travel.)
Spring (March to May)
-Mild Temperatures
-Blooming Flowers (especially tulips!)
-Melting Snow (revealing stunning landscapes)
-This is also when Nowruz is celebrated. (Persian New Year)
Autumn (September to November)
-Pleasant Temperatures
-Clear Skies
-Beautiful Autumn Colours
-Ideal for cultural exploration and trekking.
Tips!
-Guided Tours: Even in times of relative stability, independent travel could be challenging due to infrastructure and language barriers. A reputable local guide would be highly advantageous for logistics and safety.
-Cultural Sensitivity: Afghanistan is a deeply conservative country with strong Islamic traditions. Dress modestly, be respectful of local customs, and understand that interactions might be different from Western norms.
-Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people and be discreet with your camera.
-Health Precautions: Consult a doctor about necessary vaccinations well in advance. Access to quality medical care outside major cities is extremely limited.
-Security Awareness: Vigilance is essential. Always remain aware of your surroundings, avoid large crowds or demonstrations, and have an emergency plan.
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