3-Day Bamiyan Extension (Valleys & Lakes)

Included

Hotels (shared twin/double, private bathroom)
Full-time English-speaking guide
Private vehicle with driver and fuel (sedan, van)
Breakfast, lunch, and all daily drinks (hotel, local restaurants, water, soft drinks)
Entrance fees to all sites, and photo permits
Band-e Amir National Park 4WD day trip – if included in package

Not included

Single room supplement (optional)
Dinners (2-4 USD per meal optional)
Souvenirs, personal expenses and tips
All not mentioned as “included”

Bamiyan is where Afghanistan slows down. Known for its dramatic valleys, sapphire-blue lakes, and ancient Buddhist heritage, this region offers a rare combination of natural beauty and cultural depth. In just three days, you’ll experience landscapes unlike anywhere else — from the legendary Buddha niches to the shimmering lakes of Band-e Amir.

This extension is designed to blend seamlessly with your 2-Day Kabul Classic Tour. Once you’ve explored Kabul, you’ll fly west into the mountains and discover why Bamiyan is considered the crown jewel of central Afghanistan.

🗓 Day 1 – Kabul to Bamiyan: Arrival in the Highlands

• Morning Flight to Bamiyan – A short scenic flight brings you from Kabul into the heart of the Hindu Kush mountains.
• Zuhak Ancient City (The Red City) – Wander the fortress ruins perched high above the valley, once guarding the Silk Road routes.
• Gholghola Ancient City (The City of Screams) – Explore the atmospheric ruins of this 13th-century stronghold, destroyed during the Mongol invasion.
• Local Dinner & Overnight – Check into a family-run hotel in Bamiyan, where hospitality is warm and meals are traditional.

🗓 Day 2 – Band-e Amir National Park (Day Trip)

• Morning Drive to Band-e Amir – Travel by 4WD through rugged mountain roads to reach Afghanistan’s first national park.
• Band-e Haibat (Grand Lake) – Take in the breathtaking turquoise waters surrounded by limestone cliffs.
• Exploration of the Lakes – Visit several of the park’s six lakes, each with its own character and striking natural palette.
• Picnic by the Water – Enjoy a relaxed outdoor lunch with mountain views.
• Evening Return to Bamiyan – Stroll through the town bazaar before dinner and overnight stay.

🗓 Day 3 – Buddha Niches & Departure

• Buddha Niches of Bamiyan – Stand before the towering empty niches that once held the world’s largest standing Buddhas, destroyed in 2001 but still deeply symbolic.
• Cave Houses – Explore the honeycomb of caves carved into the cliffs, many once decorated with colorful frescoes.
• Kakrak Valley – Visit lesser-known Buddhist caves and enjoy a quiet walk through this scenic valley.
• Afternoon Flight to Kabul – Return to the capital, where your extension connects back with your onward travel or next chosen itinerary.

💡 Why Add Bamiyan to Your Tour?

• Breathtaking scenery — from green valleys to turquoise lakes.
• Deep historical significance, with Buddhist heritage alongside Afghan village life.
• Gentle pace of travel, making it an ideal contrast after bustling Kabul.
• Seamless logistics — flights, guides, and transport are fully arranged.