Understand

Qaila Jangi, a place etched in infamy, played a significant role during the American-backed defeat of the Taliban by the Northern Alliance. The world witnessed the intense moments as US and UK soldiers fought against rebelling Taliban prisoners. Notably, an American Taliban soldier was captured during this clash, defying the odds of survival. However, the narrative of Qaila Jangi is not complete without acknowledging the profound consequences. After the demise of an American CIA agent, an uprising erupted, leading to the loss of numerous Afghan lives. While a memorial plaque commemorates the fallen agent, the stories of the hundreds of Afghans who perished in the aftermath remain untold. Following the fall of Mazar-e-Sharif to Warlord General Dostum and Western advisors, truckloads of Taliban prisoners were corralled into the fortress, a massive compound located just outside the town. Divided into two sections, the fortress provided the imprisoned Taliban with a contained space, complete with vegetation and a handful of buildings. Ingeniously designed, the sloping walls prevented their escape and armed the Afghan and Western soldiers with control. Uncover the chilling history of Qaila Jangi and its pivotal role in the conflict while exploring the remnants of this fortress. Visiting this historic site will transport you back to a time filled with tension, bravery, and the resilience of those involved.

Get in

To gain entry into the fortress in Mazar-e Sharif, the best way is to find a local resident who can sweet-talk the guards, even if they don't speak much English. Don't worry about an entrance fee, as the fortress is not a tourist attraction and there are rarely any fees in Afghanistan anyway. However, keep in mind that it is still a military installation, albeit unused. So, be cautious and respectful during your visit.]

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dishes in Afghanistan often revolve around grain, particularly rice and bread, as well as vegetables, fruits, nuts, and dairy products. A popular meat used in many dishes is lamb. One signature dish is Qabili Palow, which consists of layers of saffron-infused basmati rice, cooked with lamb, carrots, raisins, and sometimes chickpeas. The dish is typically served with a side of yogurt and nan bread.

Another popular dish is Mantoo, a type of dumpling traditionally filled with ground lamb, onions, and spices. They are typically boiled before being pan-fried to give them a crispy exterior while retaining their succulent filling. These dumplings are often served as an appetizer or part of a larger meal accompanied by a tangy, spiced tomato sauce and mint yogurt.

Ashak is a beloved Afghan flatbread made from wheat flour, water, salt, and yogurt. It can be eaten plain or stuffed with various fillings, such as spiced minced beef or lamb, onions, and herbs. Ashak is commonly enjoyed as a breakfast or lunch item, often accompanied by chutney or other condiments.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing