What’s the first thing you think about regarding Afghanistan? The likelihood is your mind immediately flits to its recent history, which is undoubtedly turbulent and offputting to travellers.
You probably don’t think of a country of extraordinary beauty; one with a rich culture and a history which has far more to tell us than the past few decades.
Nowhere captures this better than Bamyan. On Rocky Road Travel’s Tour of Afghanistan in May 2026, this part of the country is one of our highlights, offering a glimpse into a peaceful side of Afghanistan that has enchanted travellers for centuries.
Nestled in the central highlands, Bamyan is home to sweeping valleys, striking blue lakes, and remnants of a Buddhist past that date back over 1,500 years. Its landscapes are serene yet dramatic, and its history is as rich as it is tragic.
Cities of Screams and Red Stone Fortresses
We take you to a wide range of attractions on this summer tour. That includes driving you a short distance from the main town to Shahr-e Gholghola, or the ‘City of Screams’. These ruins, dating back to at least the 12th century, tell a story of siege and destruction, their name a haunting reminder of the Mongol invasion that once swept through this region.
Then there’s Shahr-e Zuhak, the Red City. Perched dramatically above the valley, its ancient fortifications, built of striking red stone, are a fantastic subject if you’re a keen photographer.
Both sites offer panoramic views across the Hazarajat region, making the climb well worth the effort!
The Lakes of Band-e-Amir
No trip to Bamyan is complete without a journey to Band-e-Amir National Park. Located about 75 km from the town, this chain of six cobalt-blue lakes is separated by natural travertine dams, making it one of Afghanistan’s most striking natural wonders.
Recognised as the country’s first national park in 2009, Band-e-Amir is a peaceful escape, popular with both Afghan families and international travellers. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and open skies, it’s a place where you can truly appreciate Afghanistan’s untouched beauty.
Why Bamyan is Eye-Opening for Modern Travellers
Bamyan offers an Afghanistan far removed from the images seen on the nightly news. It’s a region where hospitality is genuine, where history is layered into every stone, and where natural beauty remains unspoilt.
On our Afghanistan Tour in 2026, Bamyan is both a cultural and scenic high point: a reminder that this country’s story is about far more than conflict. Rocky Road Travel also offers a number of other tours to this often stigmatised country.
If you’re an adventurous traveller seeking a destination that’s as rewarding as it is rare, find out more about our upcoming tours to Afghanistan.
