Nuristan, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Nuristan, Afghanistan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Nuristan, Afghanistan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January here can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Make sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

February

February is beyond freezing. Temperatures average in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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 Nuristan. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

Traveling to Nuristan in March, you will notice that it is very cold. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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 repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Take care to find the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

April

Traveling to Nuristan in April, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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 Nuristan. 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

May

May is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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 things recently, an AirTag can find 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in this region is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost sometimes. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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 in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive 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. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

July

July for Nuristan is cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice 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. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

August

August for Nuristan is crisp. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice 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

September

September in Nuristan is brisk. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost sometimes. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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

  • 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. Check that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

October in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

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

  • 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

    An excellent option is this one

November

If you go to Nuristan in November, you will notice that it is freezing. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

December

December in this region can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nuristan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • 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

What to do in Nuristan, Afghanistan

Nuristan, located in eastern Afghanistan, is a natural haven for tourists looking for a unique and adventurous experience. This rugged mountainous region, which was previously known as Kafiristan, is home to a diverse mix of cultures, languages, and traditions. As you explore Nuristan, you will be able to appreciate the breathtaking mountain vistas, lush natural beauty, and ancient historical sites.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Nuristan:

Mountains:

Nuristan is a mighty mountain region with a range of high and rugged mountains. This makes it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and mountain climbers. The mountains offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, terraced fields, and meandering rivers. The Kaneli Pass is the most famous and breathtaking mountain range where visitors can marvel at the view of the Hindu Kush Mountains.

Cultural Tour:

Nuristan is a melting pot of cultures that has evolved over many centuries. The Nuristani people have managed to preserve their customs, languages, and beliefs till date, despite the pressure from modernization. Visitors can take cultural tours of the region to explore the unique tradition and customs of the Nuristani people. These tours may take the visitors to local markets, where they can shop for souvenirs, or they can visit the old Nuristan fortresses that bear testimony to the rich history of the region. The Kafir red-rock carvings and impregnable Kafir forts up in the hills provide an insight into the Nuristani’s ancient way of life.

Ghorman Valley:

The Ghorman Valley, located in the southern part of Nuristan, is a stunningly beautiful region that is dotted with small villages and terraced fields. The main attraction of the valley is the Ghorman Lake, which is an excellent spot for fishing and boating. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a stunning location for picnics and treks.

Nuristan National Park:

The Nuristan National Park is a protected area that was created to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the Afghan hound, the Asiatic black bear, and the Siberian ibex.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Nuristan is from May to October as the temperature is pleasant and the weather is clear. The region experiences cold winters and hot summers, so visitors should be prepared for all weather conditions.

Conclusion:

As you can see, Nuristan is a perfect destination for people who want to travel off the beaten path and experience a different culture. The region has a unique mix of adventure, history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts visitors from all over the world. Ensure you take caution with security measures while traveling to Nuristan due to the various security threats. Whether you are exploring the mountain ranges or discovering the local culture, there is always something exciting and rewarding to experience in Nuristan.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Ewaninga Conservation Reserve, Northern Territory, Australia, Beerwah, Queensland, Australia, Hadera, Israel, Paramaribo, Suriname, Novohrad, Slovakia, Lytham St Annes, England, United Kingdom, Southeast Bengal, India, Montefiascone, Italy, Bude, Mississippi, United States of America, Uzhhorod, Ukraine, and Västerdalarna, Sweden.