A Guide to Mazar/Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan's Capital City (updated 2024)
Mazar-i-Sharif in Afghanistan, often referred to simply as Mazar, is the fourth-largest city in Afghanistan and serves as the capital of Balkh Province in northern Afghanistan.
Mazar, Afghanistan, is most famous for the iconic Blue Mosque.
We explore this more in our guide to Mazar, Afghanistan.
Mazar Introduction
Mazar Geography & Climate
Mazar History
Mazar Today
Mazar Demographics
Mazar Economy
Mazar Tourism
Mazar Infrastructure
Where to Stay in Mazar
Introduction to Mazar
The city is a major centre of trade and one of the best places to get Afghani carpets and do some shopping.
It is located near the borders of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The location of Mazar means it is an essential hub for commerce and transit in Central Asia.
Mazar-i-Sharif, meaning "Tomb of the Exalted," is named after the shrine of Ali. This is a key religious and historical figure in Islam, who is believed by some to be buried there.
Mazar-i-Sharif / Mazar, Afghanistan Name
The name "Mazar-i-Sharif" translates to "Tomb of the Exalted" in Persian.
It refers to the Shrine of Ali, also known as the Blue Mosque. It is one of the most iconic cities of Mazar city, as well as throughout Afghanistan. It is believed to house the remains of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.
Although historians are uncertain about Ali’s actual burial site, the shrine has become a revered site of pilgrimage for Muslims in Afghanistan and beyond.
Geography and Climate of Mazar, Afghanistan
Mazar-i-Sharif is located in northern Afghanistan.
It is close to the Amu Darya River, which forms part of the border with Uzbekistan. Covering an area of approximately 8,000 square kilometres, Mazar-i-Sharif is well-positioned as a gateway to Central Asia.
The city lies at an altitude of about 378 meters (1,240 feet) above sea level, on a plain surrounded by the Hindu Kush mountains to the south and the Central Asian steppes to the north.
Weather in Mazar
This means it’s a lot hotter in summer than other cities in Afghanistan at a much higher elevation.
Summers are hot, with average temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters are cold. Temperatures sometimes drop below freezing.
Mazar receives minimal rainfall, averaging around 300 mm per year. Most of the rainfall is between November and April. The region’s dry conditions make agriculture reliant on irrigation from rivers and underground water sources.
Mazar History
Mazar in the Ancient Era
The area around Mazar-i-Sharif has been inhabited for thousands of years and was historically part of the ancient region of Bactria.
Archaeological evidence suggests that the nearby city of Balkh, often called the "Mother of Cities," was a major centre of Zoroastrianism and later Buddhism.
Balkh is an absolute must-visit when visiting Mazar in Afghanistan.
Mazar-i-Sharif’s development as a city is closely tied to the historical significance of Balkh. In the ancient era, this served as a cultural and commercial centre along the Silk Road.
Mazar in the Medieval Period
Mazar-i-Sharif rose to prominence in the 12th century when the Shrine of Ali was constructed.
The shrine transformed the city into a significant religious centre, attracting pilgrims from across the Muslim world.
It became part of the Timurid Empire in the 14th century and subsequently fell under the control of various Persian and Central Asian dynasties. This includes the Safavids and the Uzbeks.
Mazar in the Modern Era
In the 19th century, Mazar-i-Sharif became part of the Emirate of Afghanistan under the Durrani Empire. This consolidated its role as a major city in northern Afghanistan.
During the Soviet-Afghan War (1979–1989), Mazar-i-Sharif served as a key battleground due to its strategic location.
After the fall of the Soviet-backed government, the city was contested by various factions, including the Taliban and Northern Alliance, during the Afghan Civil War.
Mazar-i-Sharif was one of the last major cities to fall to the Taliban in 1998, but it was recaptured by Northern Alliance forces in 2001 with the support of U.S.-led coalition forces. It has experienced relative stability compared to other Afghan cities, and benefits from development projects and an influx of foreign investment.
Mazar, Afghanistan TODAY
Today, Mazar is one of the most visited places by tourists, mainly thanks to the city of Balkh and the Blue Mosque.
Two must-sees when travelling Afghanistan - if you have the time.
Ancient City of Balkh
Is Mazar, Afghanistan Safe?
Now back under Taliban rule, the city sees a fair amount of stability.
You may be required to have a Taliban escort with you when you travel.
This is a provided service and you are in no obligation to pay. Although, they may expect tips.
Demographics of Mazar, Afghanistan
Mazar-i-Sharif has an estimated population of around 500,000 people. This makes it the fourth-largest city in Afghanistan.
The city is ethnically diverse, with Tajiks forming the largest group, followed by Uzbeks, Hazaras, and Pashtuns.
This mix of ethnic groups reflects the city’s historical position as a crossroads between Central Asia and Afghanistan.
Dari, a dialect of Persian, is the primary language spoken in Mazar-i-Sharif.
Although you may also find Uzbek and Pashto is widely understood.
Economy of Mazar, Afghanistan
Mazar-i-Sharif is a major commercial centre benefiting largely from its proximity to Central Asian countries. It is certainly one of Afghanistan’s more economically diverse cities.
The economy is primarily based on trade, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing.
The city’s markets are filled with goods imported from Uzbekistan and other neighbouring countries.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in the local economy. Surrounding the region you will see fields producing wheat, cotton, melons, and other crops.
The city is also known for its handicrafts, particularly silk and cotton textiles, as well as carpets and pottery.
Tourism in Mazar, Afghanistan
Below is a list of must-sees when in Mazar-i-Sharif. Aside from things to visit, make sure you try local famous Mazari ice cream. This is traditional rolled black-sugar-tasting Mazar Ice Cream.
Religious Sites in Mazar
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, is the most iconic landmark in Mazar-i-Sharif and one of Afghanistan’s most important religious sites.
The mosque’s stunning blue-tiled exterior and serene gardens attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.
Blue Mosque, Shrine of Hazrat Ali
Cost: 5 USD (approx 3-400 AFN).
Details: Also called the Mausoleum of Ali and an impressive gorgeous blue-tiled mosque from 11th C, where you’ll often find white doves hanging out.
Green Mosque
Cost: N/A
Details: The Green Mosque, also known as the Tomb of Khwaja Abu Nasr Parsa, is a stunning example of Timurid architecture. Intricate tile work!
Notes: Located within the Balkh area and part of the Balkh tour, it is a nice place to visit.
Shrine of the First Female Persian Poet
Cost: N/A
Details: The Tomb of Rabia Balkhi honours one of the first female poets in Persian literature.
Her tragic love story and contributions to Persian poetry have made her a legendary figure.
Notes: Just behind Green Mosque.
Historical Sites in Mazar
In addition to the Blue Mosque, Mazar-i-Sharif is home to several historical sites.
This includes the ancient ruins of Balkh. It is located a short distance from the city centre.
Balkh, one of the oldest cities in the world, offers visitors a glimpse into Afghanistan’s pre-Islamic past, with remains of Zoroastrian and Buddhist structures.
Another significant site is the Tomb of Sultan Ahmed, a Timurid-era mausoleum with traditional Afghan architecture.
Nine-Dome-Mosque
Cost: N/A
Details: Also known as the Masjid-e-Noh-Gumbad, it is said it is THE oldest Islamic building in Afghanistan, dating to the 9th century or further.
Infrastructure of Mazar
Getting to Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif is well-connected to other parts of Afghanistan. You can take a domestic flight into Mazar-i-Sharif Airport, which is located just a short distance from the city centre.
You can also travel here by road. Road infrastructure has improved in recent years, with the construction of highways linking Mazar-i-Sharif to Kabul.
Where to Stay in Mazar?
There are a few hotels you can choose from. A traveller's favourite is Rahat Hotel.
More coming soon...
Koryo Tours
Afghanistan Travel Guide
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