Geography & Regions
From the soaring peaks of the Hindu Kush to the arid plains of the south, Afghanistan's geography is as varied as its history.
Geographic Core: The Hindu Kush
The Hindu Kush mountain range runs through the center of the country, dividing the north from the south. Many peaks exceed 6,000 meters, creating a rugged and often inaccessible landscape that has defined Afghan warfare and trade for millennia.
Key Regions
The North
Relatively fertile and home to cities like Mazar-i-Sharif. Borders Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Known for its agricultural output and the vast Northern Plains.
The Central Highlands
Includes the Bamiyan Valley. A region of stunning natural beauty, deep valleys, and historically significant heritage sites.
The South & West
Dominated by arid deserts and the plains of Kandahar and Helmand. Hotter climate and home to significant historical trading hubs like Herat.
Natural Wonders
Band-e-Amir: A series of six deep blue lakes separated by natural dams made of travertine. It is Afghanistan's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wakhan Corridor: A narrow strip of territory in northeastern Afghanistan that extends to China and separates Tajikistan from Pakistan. One of the most remote and pristine mountain environments on earth.
Sources & Verification
- National Geographic: Afghanistan Geography
- World Bank Global Geographic Data
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Last updated: February 22, 2026