How To Reach Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine

Travel Guide to Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine, Herat, Afghanistan

Welcome to the historical city of Herat, home to the revered Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine. This celebrated Sufi spiritual site is located just outside Herat and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Below you'll find all you need to know to plan a visit to this sacred destination.

Location

The shrine is situated in the Gazargah suburb of Herat, approximately 5 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Getting to Herat

To first reach Herat, there are several options:

• By Air: The Herat International Airport (HEA) welcomes domestic flights from various cities within Afghanistan as well as limited international flights, mainly from nearby countries.
• By Road: Overland travel can be challenging but is possible. The city is connected by highways from Kabul and Kandahar, which are the main routes taken by buses and private vehicles. However, security can be an issue and it is advisable to check travel advisories before setting out.

Reaching the Shrine from Herat

• By Taxi: The most convenient way to reach the shrine from Herat city is by taxi. Fares should be negotiated beforehand, and it's recommended to hire a return trip as taxis may not always be readily available from the shrine back to the city.
• By Bus: Local buses or "milli-buses" also travel to Gazargah, though they might not drop you directly at the shrine. This is the most budget-friendly option but requires some local navigation and possibly a short walk to the shrine.
• Private Car: Hiring a private car with a driver can offer a more comfortable and secure way to visit the shrine. Your hotel in Herat may be able to arrange this for you.

Best Time to Visit

Herat experiences extreme temperature fluctuations between summer and winter. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). Visiting during these months ensures pleasant weather, conducive to exploring the shrine and its surroundings.

Additional Tips

• Check the security situation: Herat, like much of Afghanistan, can be prone to security issues. Always get the latest updates and travel advisories from a reliable source.
• Respect local customs: Dress conservatively and act respectfully, especially since this is a religious site.
• Language: Dari is widely spoken in Herat so having a phrasebook or translation app may be useful.
• Currency: Afghan afghani (AFN) is the local currency and it's advisable to have cash, as ATMs and card payments may not be widely accepted, especially outside of city centers.

Visiting the Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine can be an enriching experience filled with cultural and spiritual insights. Ensure to prepare adequately and travel safely to enjoy what this special place has to offer.