Best Historical Landmarks in Jalal-Abad, Afghanistan

A trip to Afghanistan is not considered complete without going to some of the best historical landmarks in Jalal-Abad. Known for its several sacred Islamic mausoleum and sites, Jalal-Abad is where most pilgrims travel far and near to visit and pray. Apart from this, Jalal-Abad is one of the emerging cities in eastern Afghanistan, which is set 1886 feet above sea level and famous for its incredible natural attractions. 

Jalal-Abad is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Afghanistan – there you would find snow-covered mountains, verdant valleys, walnut forests, crystal-clear lakes, fantastic clothes and jaw-dropping glaciers. There is always a unique place to discover in Jalal-Abad for the most promising adventure.

If you are ready to get started, let us walk you through some of the most historical landmarks you can come across in Jalal-Abad, Afghanistan:

Best Afghanistan Landmarks to See

1. Arslanbob Village

Arslanbob village is one of the most famous landmarks in Afghanistan. It is a popular place to visit among tourists due to its excellent weather conditions, friendly residents and the well-known Arslanbob walnut forest in its vicinity. Arslanbob village is a great place to stay and spend some time in a local family guest house or enjoy the village life. You can also go on horseback riding trips or stroll to the local market, where you can find local specialties like the famous Arslanbob walnuts or the nearby waterfalls or the Arslanbob walnut forest. 

2. Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve: 

Located on the western edge of the Tien Shan Mountains at the foot of the Chaktal Range, Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve is home to about one hundred and fifty-seven species of birds, flora, mammals and fruit forests. Many travellers visit this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to witness the stunning alpine lake. As a result of an earthquake, the Sary-Chelek Lake was formed with an elevation of nearly 2,000 meters and 245meters deep. 

3. Saimaluu-Tash Petroglyph Nature Park: 

The petroglyphs can be found in Saimaluu-Tash State Nature Park on the eastern slope of Fergana Ridge. It is one of the best historical landmarks, with over 90,000 drawings and the most extensive collection of petroglyphs in Central Asia. Apart from this, it is one of the largest in the world, with early petroglyph images from 2,000-3,000 BC, while the current ones date back to the 1st-8th centuries AD. You will come across the different styles and themes of the drawings due to the changes made in its broad period. It is one of the most beautiful sights in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, and you shouldn’t miss it.

4. The Toktogul Reservoir:

Known as the largest reservoir in Central Asia, the Toktogul Reservoir Is located on the Bishkek-Osh highway, where the two biggest cities in the country meet. It is one of the best places to visit in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, whenever you are in town. Apart from this, most visitors come here to explore, enjoy the views and take pictures of the Toktogul Reservoir. 

5. Shakh Fazil Mausoleum: 

One of the best historical landmarks in Jalal-Abad, Afghanistan, is the Shakh Fazil Mausoleum. A visit to this great site will allow you to explore the grand and ancient complex of the Shakh Fazil Mausoleum in the Alabuka district of the Jalal-Abad region. It is a unique architectural monument with a rare method of construction and shape in entire Central Asia. The mausoleum is famous for originating from the Karakhani Era and features a square shape with a truncated pyramid dome. The walls here are designed with impressive decorative ganch carvings from its period.

6. Chychkan Gorge: 

Chychkan Gorge is also one of the best historical landmarks in Jalal-Abad. It is a long and remarkable wooden gorge with the  Chychkan River streaming through it. Chychkan Gorge also boasts massive cliffs, two alpine lakes and impressive waterfalls. It is set on the 240th kilometre of the Bishkek-Osh highway, after the Ala-Bel Pass at 2,200 meters and an excellent destination for both nature and outdoor lovers! Although you can freely enjoy a spectacular view of Chychkan Gorge from the highway, it would be best to stop for a day or two and spend time exploring the gorge with a fun trek.

Afghanistan, truly is a country with interesting places. If you are ever in Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan and have no idea on where to go or how best to conduct yourself in the city, this piece of content on things to do in Mazar-e-Sharif should be most helpful.