A Longing to Visit Afghanistan
Ever since I started flying to Europe in the early 90s, I always had a wish to visit Afghanistan, especially the Buddhas of Bamyan and the lakes of Band-e-Amir. In the early 70s, when we lived in Peshawar, my uncle would tell us stories of college student groups traveling from Peshawar to Kabul. They watched Indian movies in cinemas, enjoyed Afghan food, and shopped for cheap electronics in the markets of Kabul.
Following Afghanistan Through the Years
During the Russian invasion of Afghanistan, I followed the news and articles on the Afghan Jihad with great interest. The destruction of the Buddhas at Bamyan by the Taliban and the widespread landmine problem that affected many Afghan children were events that stayed with me. As a tour guide working with Japanese and Western tourists in Pakistan, I developed a strong interest in Buddhist history. My interest in Gandhara grew naturally, as the region stretched from Taxila in the east to Jalalabad and Bamyan in the west, covering both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
People and Culture Across the Border
Many Pashtun tribes from Afghanistan moved across the border during the war and settled in refugee camps near Peshawar and Quetta. Because of shared language and traditions, they blended easily. Children born in Pakistan attended local schools and colleges, and many became fluent in Urdu. This long connection built a strong bond between the two sides of the border.
Visiting Bamyan and Band-e-Amir Today
For travelers considering an Afghanistan tour, Bamyan is a highlight not to be missed. While the monumental Buddhas are no longer standing, the valley still holds immense historical and emotional power. Just a short distance from Bamyan lies Band-e-Amir National Park, a series of stunning deep blue lakes surrounded by sandstone cliffs—Afghanistan’s first national park and a true natural wonder.
Visiting Band-e-Amir offers a rare moment of peace and beauty amidst the region’s turbulent history. It is one of the most rewarding experiences for any traveler with a passion for nature, history, and resilience.
