The Mausoleum of Ahmed Shah Durrani is considered one of the most significant landmarks in all of Afghanistan. This mausoleum is the final resting place of the man who founded modern-day Afghanistan.
Location
The mausoleum is in Kandahar. You can take any public transport and they will take you to the mausoleum. The mausoleum is very near the Mosque of the Cloak of the Prophet Mohammed. They are right in the middle of the city.
What to See
The mausoleum is one of the most elaborate in the country. It is shaped in an octagonal manner beautifully decorated. The gilded dome is a beautiful gold in color. Apart from the tomb of Ahmed, there are a dozen tombs there as well. The exquisite decoration has lured visitors to the site.
The Mausoleum of Ahmed Shah Durrani is not just for history buffs; it is also where people go to see the best of Afghanistan architecture. The Maratha tried to attack him several times, but he always emerged victorious. He defeated them eight times.
History
Durrani (c.1722–1773) established the Afghan Edmpire in the year 1747. Khan started out as a soldier of the kingdom of Afsharid. His skills led to his promotion as commander of 4,000 Abdali Pashtun soldiers. When Nader Shah Afshar of Persia died in 1747, he became the Khorasan Emir.
With his allies and Pashtun tribes, he led them past the Mughal Empire and the Empire of Maratha of India. His conquest took him to Khanate of Bukhara and the Afsharid Empire of Persia.
In the span of a few years, he conquered what is present day Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Punjab region and the lands that make up northeastern Iran were also conquered.
Cost
Airfare tickets will likely cost less than 1000 USD. Once you get to the country, the taxi is the mot common way to move around. Metered taxis are a rarity, so it is best to negotiate with the driver for the fee.
Other Info
When you are in Kandahar, there are several places where you can stay. One of them is Armani Hotel. It is just a couple of miles from the center of the city. There is also the Continental Guest House. This is at Shar-e Nau Road close to Zarghoona Anna Lisa.
The Mausoleum of Ahmed Shah Durrani is not just another tourist attraction. It is nothing less than a symbol of Afghanistan itself.
