Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan? If you're planning to go to Mazar-e Sharif, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan

Based on the climate and weather in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, the best time to go is October. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan by month

January

If you go to Mazar-e Sharif in January, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain regularly and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

February

In February, Mazar-e Sharif is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mazar-e Sharif, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large 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 pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

March

March in Mazar-e Sharif is cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 things nowadays, 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

April

If you visit Mazar-e Sharif during April, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

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 things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

May

May is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

June

June in Mazar-e Sharif can be blisteringly 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Mazar-e Sharif. 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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

July

Traveling to Mazar-e Sharif in July, you will notice that it is a scorcher and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

August

If you visit Mazar-e Sharif during August, you may notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

September

Traveling to Mazar-e Sharif in September, you will notice that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

October

October in Mazar-e Sharif is warm and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

November

November in Mazar-e Sharif is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends 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 Mazar-e Sharif. 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 always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

December

If you visit Mazar-e Sharif during December, you will probably notice that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you check out a temple, such as Shrine of Hazrat Ali, wear:

What to do in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan

Mazar-e Sharif, located in the northern province of Balkh, Afghanistan, is a city rich in cultural and historical significance. Known as the "Noble Shrine," Mazar-e Sharif is home to some of the most important historic and religious sites in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mazar-e Sharif.

1. The Blue Mosque

The famous Blue Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, is the most visited tourist attraction in Mazar-e Sharif. The mosque is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate blue-tiled decorations and a gold-plated dome. The shrine is the final resting place of Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad and a revered figure in Islam. The Blue Mosque is one of the holiest sites in Afghanistan and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

2. Balkh Citadel

Located about 25 kilometers from Mazar-e Sharif, Balkh Citadel is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 4th century BC. The citadel is one of the largest and most impressive structures of its kind in Central Asia. Once a major trading center on the Silk Road, the citadel is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists who are interested in exploring the ruins of an ancient civilization.

3. The Tomb of Khwaja Parsa

The Tomb of Khwaja Parsa is a popular tourist spot in Mazar-e Sharif. The site is dedicated to the memory of Khwaja Parsa, one of the greatest Sufi saints of the 15th century. The tomb is located on a hilltop in the center of the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

4. The Mausoleum of Sultan Ali

The Mausoleum of Sultan Ali, also known as the Kohe Ghar Mosque, is a stunning monument located on a hilltop in Mazar-e Sharif. Built in the 15th century, the mosque is one of the finest examples of Timurid architecture in the region. The building boasts intricate tile work and a towering blue dome, attracting visitors who are interested in the history and architecture of Afghanistan.

5. The Shrine of Hazrat Imam Ali

The Shrine of Hazrat Imam Ali is another holy site in Mazar-e Sharif. The shrine is dedicated to the memory of Hazrat Imam Ali, the fourth caliph of Islam and a revered figure in Shi'a Islam. The site features a beautiful mosque and a mausoleum housing the remains of Hazrat Imam Ali's son, Hazrat Imam Hasan. The Shrine of Hazrat Imam Ali attracts visitors who are interested in exploring the rich tradition and history of Shi'a Islam.

6. The Gardens of Babur

The Gardens of Babur, located about 10 kilometers from Mazar-e Sharif, are an elegant oasis of beauty and serenity. The gardens were first designed in the 16th century by Babur, the first Mughal emperor, and were restored in the 20th century. The gardens feature a variety of trees, fountains, and flowers, making them a popular spot for local families and tourists alike.

In conclusion, Mazar-e Sharif is a city rich in cultural and historical significance, offering visitors a chance to explore the country's ancient landmarks and religious sites. From the Blue Mosque to the Gardens of Babur, the top tourist attractions in Mazar-e Sharif are a testament to the country's rich and diverse past. Anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture should definitely consider visiting Mazar-e Sharif.

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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