Happy TravellerWelcome to Shindand, a town located in the Herat Province of Afghanistan. This beautiful town is situated on the Harut River at an altitude of 1,066 meters and is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Shindand is a place of historical importance and has a rich cultural heritage. The town is inhabited by Pashtuns, Tajiks and others, with Pashtuns being the majority. The main languages spoken in the area are Pashto and Dari. In this article, we will take a closer look at Shindand and explore the many wonders that this enchanting destination has to offer.
Shindand boasts a rich history, and was once a city of considerable size. It still possesses a fortress with sides of about 200 meters. In the 19th century, the city had a diverse population composed of Ghilzais, Durranis (Alakozais, Popalzais, Barakzais), Tajiks, Zuris, Timuris, Jews, and Hindus. By the early 20th century, this fortress had been abandoned, and the town, at the center of a group of villages, was fairly prosperous, with a bazaar of about 800 shops. The plains about Shindand were highly cultivated by the Nurzai Duranis, each village protected by its own little mud fort.
The town’s name Shindand means green pond in Pashto. It was previously known as Sabzawar and Asfezar. The town is located at the northern end of Zirko Valley, which is one of the main centers of poppy production in western Afghanistan. It is also located south of Adriskan, where a large police training facility exists.
Shindand is an excellent place to visit for those who seek adventure and love exploring new cultures. The town is known for its beautiful landscapes and is a perfect destination for nature lovers. The area has a cold semi-arid climate with an average temperature of 16.5 °C and annual precipitation averaging 168 mm. July is the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of 29.4 °C, while January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 4.1 °C.
One of the main attractions of Shindand is the Shindand Air Base, located about 15 miles to the northeast of the town. It is a former Soviet airfield which was repaired by U.S. forces and is currently occupied by Afghan and NATO’s International Security Assistance Force. The Kandahar–Herat Highway, which is part of Afghanistan’s Highway 1, passes next to the Shindand Air Base. A free medical clinic supported by the Afghan National Army (ANA) provides free medical care for the population of the town.
In conclusion, Shindand is a hidden gem that is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors. It is a perfect destination for those who seek adventure and love exploring new cultures. The town is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. It is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the real Afghanistan. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Shindand.
