ENG
ARA
FRA
Why Shop in Afghanistan?
Afghan markets are living museums—lanes of color, the ring of metalwork, the fragrance of saffron and cardamom. You don't just buy an object; you meet the maker, hear the story, sip tea, and bargain with a smile.
Afghan markets are living museums—lanes of color, the ring of metalwork, the fragrance of saffron and cardamom. You don't just buy an object; you meet the maker, hear the story, sip tea, and bargain with a smile.
Explore the vibrant markets and artisan workshops across the country
Mandawi & Chicken Street: carpets, jewelry, antiques-style curios, leather, books, handicrafts.
Blue Mosque bazaar for embroidered textiles, lapis trinkets, dried fruits, traditional hats.
Mosque-side workshops for wood latticework, miniature painting, saffron and glassware vendors.
Band-e Amir & valley stalls: hand-knits, village weaves, natural-dye scarves.
Famous pottery village: turquoise/earth-tone bowls, plates, and vases.
.jpeg)
Pomegranates in season, leather goods, tribal jewelry.
Traditional crafts and how to identify quality items
Look for: Tight, even knots; natural dyes; clear motifs; firm edges.
Ask about: Origin, wool type, knot count, dye process.
Suzani covers, Kuchi beadwork, Pashtun and Hazara motifs.
Check stitching on the back—neat = better quality.
.jpeg)
Lapis lazuli (Badakhshan), carnelian, onyx; filigree silver, engraved brass trays.
Verify stones, ask for weight and metal details.
.jpeg)
Hand-thrown pieces; minor glaze variations are normal.
Tap lightly—clear ring suggests good firing.
Saffron threads (deep red, dry, brittle), green/black tea, cumin, coriander, dried mint.
Buy sealed or from trusted sellers.
.jpeg)
Raisins, mulberries, pistachios, almonds.
Taste first; choose clean, evenly sized produce.
Cultural tips for a respectful shopping experience
Useful expressions for market interactions
Immerse yourself in Afghan crafts and culture
Kabul/Herat/Mazar - Meet artisans, sample nuts and sweets, learn to bargain gracefully.
Workshop visit to see wool dyeing and knotting; learn motifs, quality checks, and care.
Throw a pot with a master, glaze your piece, picnic in the orchards.
A visual journey through Afghanistan's vibrant markets
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
