Herat, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Herat, Afghanistan? If you're planning to go to Herat, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Herat, Afghanistan

Based on the climate and weather in Herat, Afghanistan, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Herat, Afghanistan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Herat, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Herat, Afghanistan by month

January

January in Herat is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Herat in February, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit Herat during March, you might notice that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Herat is a perfect temperature. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Herat is sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July here is scorchingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Herat in August, you will notice that it is sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September here is constantly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in this region is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Herat is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is cold. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Herat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to go to the majestic The Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Herat tourism authority.

If you visit the Herat National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Herat, Afghanistan

Herat is a beautiful city in western Afghanistan that boasts of rich cultural and historical significance. For many years, it has been an important hub for trade and commerce, attracting visitors from all over the world. Since the Taliban regime was overthrown, tourism in the city has grown immensely due to the abundance of tourist attractions that have been opened up to visitors. Here are the top tourist attractions in Herat that you should not miss while visiting:

1. Herat Citadel: The citadel is a 3,000-year-old fort that was built by Alexander the Great. It is a massive structure that has stood the test of time, and it is an iconic symbol of the city. The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of the city from its ramparts.

2. Masjid-i-Jami: The grand mosque is the largest mosque in Afghanistan and is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. It has 24 domes, four minarets, and is lavishly decorated with intricate tilework and calligraphy. The mosque dates back to the 12th century and is still used for daily prayers.

3. Goharshad Mosque: This mosque is another stunning piece of architecture in Herat. It was built in the 15th century by Queen Goharshad Begum, who was the wife of the ruler of the Timurid dynasty. The mosque is renowned for its turquoise blue tiles and its stunning dome, which is decorated with intricate geometrical designs.

4. Musalla Complex: The Musalla Complex is a collection of buildings that were built in the 17th century for religious and educational purposes. The complex consists of a mosque, a madrasa, and a school. The complex is an excellent example of Persian architectural style, with intricate tilework and calligraphy adorning the walls.

5. Khwaja Abd Allah Ansari Shrine: The shrine is one of the most visited shrines in Afghanistan and is named after the famous Sufi saint, Khwaja Abdullah Ansari. The shrine is an important center for pilgrimage and attracts visitors from all over Afghanistan and beyond. The shrine is decorated with beautiful paintings, calligraphy, and other types of art.

6. Herat Bazaar: The bazaar is the heart of Herat's marketplace. It is a vast and bustling marketplace that has been in existence for over 500 years. The bazaar is a great place to experience the culture of the city and buy handmade crafts, carpets, and other souvenirs.

Herat is a fascinating city that offers a wealth of attractions to its visitors. Its rich cultural history and traditions make it a top tourist destination in Afghanistan. If you plan to visit Afghanistan, be sure to include Herat on your itinerary.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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