One of the most historic cities in the world, Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan was believed to have been founded between 2000-1500 BC.

A phoenix-like city, Kabul continues to re-build and improve itself despite continued damage during the various wars of the last fifty years. Since 2001, billions of dollars in foreign aid have been spent improving the infrastructure and facilities in Kabul, but the most fascinating tourist attractions remain the most historic.

The Gardens of Babur or ‘Bagh-e Babur’ surrounding the tomb of Emperor Babur attract visitors year round. With a small mosque, swimming pool and museum, the gardens are a beautiful spot to spend a lazy afternoon. Bagh-e Bala, once the summer palace of Amir Abdur Rahman, is now also a visitor attraction with a similarly clean and well-manicured park. Just 9km from Kabul city centre is Lake Qargha, a popular destination for summer swimming and boating.

Kabul is also home to the National archives, gallery and museum of Afghanistan and as such is the right place to get up to date on Afghanistan’s rich and complex history.