Maymana Tourist Places to Visit in Maymana, Faryab, Afghanistan
Maymana is situated in Faryab Province in northern Afghanistan bordering Turkmenistan approx 400 kms from city of Kabul. The city is located on the foothills of Torkestan Mountain Ranges and lies on the banks of river Maymana. Maymana is positioned at an altitude of 2877 feet above sea level and coordinates with 35.56’ degree North Latitude and 64.45’ degree East Longitude.
History of Maymana:
It is believed that Maymana existed even during times of Iron Age as there is a citadel which dates back to this Iron Age Period. Maymana was ruled by Malik of Guzganan during 10th century and later it came under the hands of Uzbeks who invaded the place in 16th century. Maymana became a center of trade and commerce to Turkistan and Herat during early 18th and 19th centuries.
Culture, Economy and Cuisine in Maymana:
Agriculture forms the major aspect of the people living in this part of the city since the soil is fertile and ideal for sowing agricultural crops. Major crops like wheat, barley, grapes, and melons are cultivated extensively in the paddy fields located near Maymana. The city is also well known for leather products, silk and Persian carpets.
Tourist attractions in and near Maymana:
Maymana Citadel:
This is considered to be one of the ancient citadels located in Maymana which belongs to Iron Age Era. Now the tourists can only view the ruins of the Citadel, as most part of the structure have lost their glory due to passage of time. Tourists can also visit Kabul which offers hosts of attractions located about 400 kms from Maymana. Some of the special attractions include:
- Lake Qargha
- Mausoleum of Zahir Shah & Nadir Shah
- National Gallery of Afghanistan
- National Museum of Afghanistan
- Darul Aman Palace
- Tomb of Babur
- Minar-i- Istiqlal
- Id Gah Mosque
- Mausoleum of Timur Shah
- Bala Hissar Fort
- Kabul Golf Club
- Kabul Zoo
- OMAR Mine Museum
- Paghman Gardens
- Bagh-e- Babur Park
- Bagli Bala Park
- Bibi Mahro Park
When to visit Maymana?
The most ideal time to visit Maymana will be during month of March where the maximum temperature hovers around mid 30 degrees and minimum temperature ranges around 10 degrees. Winters remain very cold at times with minimum temperature dipping to a low of -30 degrees.
Culture and food in Maymana:
Maymana is rich in culture and tradition as the locales show very affection and warmth towards outsiders visiting the place. Maymana is very famous for its cuisines and food which include qabli pulao, chicken biryani, chicken halal cut, lamb chops, beef curry, mutton roll, grilled chicken, soup and different types of kurmas. The tourists are served with traditional Afghan delicacies which are known for their taste and aroma. Since most of the cuisines are hot and spicy, one should have enough fire to taste these recipes and menus.
How to reach Maymana in Afghanistan?
Maymana is quite well connected by road, rail and air means of transport. Abundant bus services are on the anvil from Maymana bus stand to important cities like Kandhahar, Kabul, Khost and Faryab. Maymana also has a tiny airstrip used for charter and military purposes which is approx 3.2 kms from heart of the city. There are also trains running from Maymana to important cities in Afghanistan and neighboring Turkmenistan. The nearest international airport is Kabul International Airport located 400 kms from Maymana where many domestic and international flights operate to many destinations worldwide.
Where to stay in Maymana?
Maymana has some reputed hotels falling under 1 star rating to 4 star rating offering many world class services and facilities for the tourists checking in such hotels all round the year. The facilities include breakfast, lunch, laundry services, ironing, babysitting center, 24 hrs help desk, mini bar and restaurant, airport pick and drop, doctors on call, elevators, lifts, facilities for disabled visitors and physically handicapped guests etc. List of hotels in Kabul about 400 kms from Maymana is as follows:
- Hotel Kabul Serena
- Hotel Safi Landmark
- Hotel Mustafa
- Hotel Heetal Plaza
- Hotel Capital Inn
- Hotel Park Star
- Hotel Maple Leaf Inn
- Le Monde Guest House
- Hotel The Baron
- Hotel Diana Inn
- Hotel InterContinental