Afghanistan is a country filled with exciting destinations, from the iconic towering minarets of Kabul to the awe-inspiring ruins of Bamiyan. But for those looking for a truly unique experience, Afghanistan offers something unexpected – skiing.
Skiing in Afghanistan is a relatively recent development, with some of the country’s first ski resorts opening their doors as recently as 2014. The most popular resort is Bamyan Ski Resort, located in Bamyan Province in central Afghanistan.
The resort covers an area of around 40 hectares and features a total of four ski runs and one chairlift. The slopes are suitable for all levels of skiers, from beginners to more experienced skiers.
The Bamyan Ski Resort is run by a local NGO, the ‘Afghan Ski Challenge’. This group was founded in 2013 and works to promote winter sports in Afghanistan and provide opportunities for locals to take part in winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding.
The resort provides lessons for those who are new to skiing or snowboarding, as well as ski rentals and equipment sales. Additionally, the resort also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
The facilities at the Bamyan Ski Resort are basic compared to other ski resorts around the world, but they are steadily improving every year with more people taking up skiing in Afghanistan. For instance, the resort now has two heated lodges which serve warm drinks and snacks during breaks between skiing or snowboarding runs. There are also plans to expand the number of lifts at the resort in order to accommodate more visitors each year.
Skiers visiting Bamyan Ski Resort can expect stunning mountain views while they carve down its slopes. However, it’s important to note that safety is paramount at all times when visiting Afghanistan – visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times and follow local advice on when it’s safe to travel outside major cities or towns.
Conclusion:
Yes, Afghanistan does have a ski resort – Bamyan Ski Resort – located in central Afghanistan which offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities for both beginners and experienced skiers alike. The facilities at this resort may not be as extensive as other ski resorts around the world but they continue to improve each year with more people taking up winter sports in Afghanistan.
