UNESCO World Heritage Sites Afghanistan

Afghanistan UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The UNESCO Sites in Afghanistan have resulted from the recognition of 2 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan and 4 locations on the Afghanistan UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in Afghanistan are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

In addition to these 2 sites in the Afghanistan UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Afghanistan are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.

To help visitors discover these remarkable Afghanistan tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan UNESCO Map

Click markers to show information and photo.

Afghanistan UNESCO Map Placeholder
Afghanistan UNESCO Map

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan

There are 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan. All of these two sites are listed under the Cultural category.

  • Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam
  • Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.

Minaret and archaeological Remains of Jam

The Minaret of Jam is a towering structure that dates back to the 12th century. It is located in the remote western part of Afghanistan and is one of the country’s most significant examples of Islamic architecture. The Minaret and its surrounding archaeological remains are a testament to the region’s rich history and cultural heritage and provide valuable insight into the region’s past. The tower stands 65 meters tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy, making it a truly magnificent sight.

Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley

The Bamiyan Valley is located in central Afghanistan and is renowned for its towering Buddha statues. The statues, carved into the cliffs, once stood over 50 meters tall but were unfortunately destroyed by the Taliban in 2001. Despite this tragedy, the Bamiyan Valley remains an important cultural and religious site, attracting tourists worldwide. The valley is surrounded by rugged cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop to the site and offer a unique insight into the region’s natural beauty. The valley and its surrounding archaeological remains are a testament to Afghanistan’s rich cultural and religious heritage and provide valuable insight into the region’s past.

Afghanistan UNESCO tentative list

  1. City of Herat
  2. City of Balkh (antique Bactria)
  3. Band-E-Amir
  4. Bagh-e Babur

Tours in Afghanistan

Our choices of tours in Afghanistan are divided into thematic features such as Kabul, Archaeological Remains of Jam, and the Bamiyan Valley Experience.

More About Afghanistan