Mazar-i-Sharif — “Noble Shrine” — is Afghanistan’s fourth-largest city and home to one of the most stunning mosques in all of Central Asia. Located in northern Afghanistan near the Uzbekistan border, Mazar is a significant pilgrimage destination for Afghan Muslims and a city with a rich cultural heritage distinct from southern and eastern Afghanistan.
The Blue Mosque (Shrine of Hazrat Ali)
The defining attraction of Mazar-i-Sharif is the Shrine of Hazrat Ali — the Blue Mosque — which according to Afghan tradition contains the tomb of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (though other traditions place his tomb in Najaf, Iraq). Regardless of the theological debate, the shrine is one of the most magnificent religious buildings in Central Asia.
The Blue Mosque’s vast complex features multiple domes and minarets covered in brilliant blue, white, and gold mosaic tilework that shimmers in the sun. The interior courtyards are filled with thousands of white doves that have been associated with the shrine for centuries — local legend holds that doves from outside the shrine turn white when they enter the complex. The sight of thousands of white doves wheeling around the blue domes is one of Afghanistan’s most iconic images.
Nowruz Festival in Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif’s Nowruz (Afghan New Year, celebrated on the spring equinox, around March 21st) is the largest and most famous celebration in Afghanistan. The Janda Bala ceremony — the raising of a special flag at the Blue Mosque to mark the New Year — draws tens of thousands of pilgrims and festival-goers from across Afghanistan. Buzkashi matches (Afghanistan’s national sport, a form of horseback polo played with a goat carcass) are held in the days around Nowruz. For travelers interested in Afghan culture, visiting Mazar for Nowruz is one of the most extraordinary cultural experiences in the entire country.
Other Attractions in Mazar-i-Sharif
- Balkh — The ancient city of Balkh, 20 kilometres from Mazar, is one of the oldest cities in the world, known in antiquity as the “Mother of Cities” and reputedly the birthplace of Zoroaster. Its extensive ruins include the remains of the Khwaja Abu Nasr Mosque and ancient fortifications.
- Buzkashi grounds — Watching a buzkashi match is an unmissable Afghan cultural experience if you visit during the right season (winter and early spring).
- Mazar bazaars — The city’s bazaars offer northern Afghan textiles, embroidery, and traditional crafts distinct from styles found in Kabul or Herat.
Getting to Mazar-i-Sharif
Mazar-i-Sharif has an international airport with domestic flights from Kabul operated by Ariana Afghan Airlines and Kam Air. Flying is the practical choice for most international visitors, as the 450-kilometre road journey from Kabul crosses the Salang Pass (which can be closed in winter) and takes 8–10 hours. The Uzbekistan border at Hairatan, across the Amu Darya river, is an operational land crossing that some travelers and aid workers use.
Finding a Guide for Mazar-i-Sharif
Visiting Mazar-i-Sharif with a knowledgeable local operator enhances the experience significantly and ensures safe and respectful visits to the shrine and other sites. Browse our Verified Operators Directory for vetted Afghanistan tour operators.