Today, the ecotourism destination I am talking about is the one that everyone would associate with anything but tourism. Did you even in your wildest dreams ever think of Afghanistan, a place that is denigrated for bloodshed, insurgents and explosive devices as an ecotourism destination? But Afghanistan has a lot to it that is still unexplored.
This paradise is an amalgamation of culture, history, heritage and natural beauty. Keeping aside the wounds given by the Taliban, Afghanistan has abundance in its hands to boost and offer. High up in the Hindu Kush is a beautiful valley formed at the blaze of five rivers. In the heart of the valley is the unpretentious town of Bamiyan. The town is rich in archaeological and historical sites and is better known internationally for two giant Buddha statues, massive limestone cliffs that are pocketed with fresco-covered caves.
Another exotic location is Band-e Amir; this series of five lakes is one of the most breathtaking sites in the world. This historic site is the centerpiece of Afghanistan’s first national park and campsites will be developed opening avenues for horse trekking and other tourist services. The Wakhan Corridor, though very different from Bamiyan, culturally, ethically and geographically is an amazing ecotourism destination. The Wakhan famous for the Pamir Mountains, its high mountain lakes, the Oxu antelope and the Marco Polo sheep is perfect to attract adventure seekers. The region is ideal for trekking and can be developed for mountaineering purposes.
Other beautiful places that are a must visit, include the Minaret of Jam, world’s second highest minaret that was built as a victory monument in 1194 AD, the Mazar-i-sharif, Balkh and last but certainly not least, the capital city of Afghanistan, Kabul. Many ecotourism programs are being initiated that aim to develop tourism, which is both environmentally sustainable and provides benefits to the local population.