Must-Try Foods In Shrine Of The Cloak (Kherqa Sharif) (Kandahar) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Shrine of the Cloak (Kherqa Sharif), Kandahar, Afghanistan

Located in the city of Kandahar, the Shrine of the Cloak, also known as Kherqa Sharif, is a revered site that houses the cloak believed to have been worn by Prophet Muhammad. While the shrine itself is primarily a religious site, the food culture in Kandahar showcases a blend of Afghan culinary traditions influenced by the historical spice trade routes. Kandahar's cuisine is known for its unique flavors, use of dried fruit and nuts, and aromatic spices. Though primarily centered on meat-based dishes, there are vegetarian options available in the local food scene that embrace the abundant produce and grains of the region.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Shrine of the Cloak (Kherqa Sharif), Kandahar, Afghanistan

1. Kabuli Pulao (Non-Veg) - A fragrant rice dish cooked with lamb, carrots, raisins, and nuts.
2. Bolani (Veg) - Stuffed flatbread with various fillings such as potato, leek, and pumpkin.
3. Sabzi Challow (Veg) - Spinach cooked with spices served with white rice.
4. Ashak (Veg) - Dumplings filled with leek and served with yogurt and mint sauce.
5. Mantu (Non-Veg) - Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (usually lamb or chicken) and onions, topped with yogurt and lentil sauce.
6. Qorma e Sabzi (Veg) - Spinach and other green herbs stewed with spices.
7. Sheer Khurma (Veg) - A sweet dessert made with milk, dates, spices, and vermicelli, especially prepared during Islamic festivals.
8. Kichiri (Veg) - A mix of rice and lentils, sometimes garnished with fried garlic and served with yogurt.
9. Naan (Veg) - Afghan bread that’s often served as a staple with various dishes.
10. Shor Nakhod (Veg) - Chickpeas mixed with onions, vinegar, and spices, served as a salad or side dish.

Top Famous Restaurants in Shrine of the Cloak (Kherqa Sharif), Kandahar, Afghanistan

Chopan Bazaar

- Address: Central Kandahar, near the Shrine of the Cloak - Famous Food: Chopan Kebab (Non-Veg) - Lamb kebab cooked on skewers over an open flame.

Bolani House

- Address: Eidgah Road, Kandahar - Famous Food: Bolani (Veg) - Flatbread stuffed with various fillings.

Kandahar Karahi

- Address: Shahr-e-Naw, Kandahar - Famous Food: Chicken Karahi (Non-Veg) - Spicy chicken curry cooked with tomatoes and herbs.

Delhi Darbar

- Address: Mirwais Mina, Kandahar - Famous Food: Aloo Palak (Veg) - Potatoes cooked with spinach and spices.

Zmarai Restaurant

- Address: Abdullah Khan Avenue, Kandahar - Famous Food: Mantu (Non-Veg) - Traditional Afghan dumplings topped with yogurt and lentil sauce.