Top 10 Biggest Cities in Afghanistan by Population
Afghanistan, a country in South-Central Asia, is known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural history, and resilient people. Despite facing decades of conflict and challenges, Afghanistan’s urban centers remain the backbone of its economy and culture. Each major city in Afghanistan offers a unique glimpse into the nation’s heritage and its efforts to rebuild and modernize. From Kabul, the bustling capital, to the historical significance of cities like Herat and Kandahar, these cities are vital to Afghanistan’s identity and development. Although infrastructure and services are often limited, these cities continue to grow and adapt, providing hope and livelihood to their residents.
Here are the top 10 cities in Afghanistan by population.
1. Kabul
Overview
Kabul, the capital and largest city of Afghanistan, has an estimated population of over 4.6 million. Situated in the eastern part of the country, Kabul is Afghanistan’s political, cultural, and economic center. As one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, Kabul has a history that spans over 3,500 years, marked by its strategic position along ancient trade routes.
Historical Significance
Kabul has been a prominent city since antiquity, known to have been influenced by empires from the Achaemenids and Mauryans to the Mongols and Mughals. Throughout its history, Kabul has been a key center for trade, culture, and learning. Landmarks like the Bala Hissar Fortress and the Gardens of Babur are reminders of Kabul’s rich history, even amidst the challenges of recent decades.
Economy and Culture
Kabul’s economy is diverse, encompassing trade, services, and government jobs. The city is a hub for education, with institutions like Kabul University playing a key role in the country’s intellectual development. Kabul’s markets, especially Chicken Street and the Kabul Bazaar, are known for their traditional Afghan handicrafts. Despite ongoing challenges, Kabul’s resilient culture and rich history continue to draw people to the city.
2. Herat
Overview
Herat, with a population of around 670,000, is located in western Afghanistan near the border with Iran. Known as the cultural heart of Afghanistan, Herat is celebrated for its artistic heritage, architectural marvels, and contributions to Afghan literature and art. Herat has long been an important trading center due to its strategic position on the ancient Silk Road.
Historical and Cultural Legacy
Herat’s history dates back over 2,000 years, flourishing under the Timurid Empire in the 15th century. Landmarks such as the Herat Citadel and the Great Mosque of Herat, also known as the Friday Mosque, highlight the city’s historical significance. Herat’s cultural contributions, including miniature painting, calligraphy, and poetry, have influenced Afghan culture and art.
Economy and Modern Development
Herat’s economy is driven by trade with neighboring Iran, agriculture, and local industries. Known for producing saffron, carpets, and textiles, Herat contributes significantly to Afghanistan’s exports. The city is also developing its infrastructure, with new road networks and schools supporting the local population. Herat’s vibrant arts scene and historical landmarks make it a focal point of Afghan culture.
3. Kandahar
Overview
Kandahar, the second-largest city in Afghanistan by area and third-largest by population, has approximately 614,000 residents. Located in southern Afghanistan, Kandahar is considered the cultural center of the Pashtun people and has a unique identity shaped by its history and strategic importance.
Historical Background
Founded by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE, Kandahar has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous empires, including the Ghaznavids, Ghurids, and Durrani Empire. The city is closely associated with Afghan national history, as it was the capital of Afghanistan under Ahmad Shah Durrani, the founder of modern Afghanistan. Kandahar’s Shrine of the Cloak is a revered site for Muslims.
Economy and Trade
Kandahar’s economy is largely based on agriculture, trade, and handicrafts. The region is known for producing pomegranates, grapes, and apricots, which are exported both locally and internationally. Kandahar is a vital trade center connecting Afghanistan with Pakistan, providing economic opportunities for its residents. The city’s markets, especially the Mandawi Bazaar, are known for Afghan textiles and spices.
4. Mazar-i-Sharif
Overview
Mazar-i-Sharif, with a population of around 500,000, is located in northern Afghanistan near the border with Uzbekistan. The city is an important center for culture and commerce in the north and is famous for its historic Blue Mosque, a significant site for Afghan Muslims.
Religious and Cultural Importance
Mazar-i-Sharif is best known for the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, also called the Blue Mosque, which attracts pilgrims from across the country, particularly during the annual Nowruz (New Year) celebrations. The city’s name, meaning “Tomb of the Exalted,” reflects its religious significance in Afghanistan. Mazar-i-Sharif is a peaceful and diverse city with a blend of ethnic communities.
Economy and Commerce
The economy of Mazar-i-Sharif revolves around trade, agriculture, and cross-border commerce with Central Asia. The city’s markets are filled with local products, including rugs, fabrics, and agricultural produce. Mazar-i-Sharif’s location along trade routes with Uzbekistan has made it a strategic center for trade, transportation, and economic development in the region.
5. Jalalabad
Overview
Jalalabad, located in eastern Afghanistan near the Pakistan border, has a population of approximately 356,000. Known for its warm climate and lush greenery, Jalalabad serves as a key agricultural center and trade route between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Historical and Strategic Importance
Founded by the Mughal emperor Akbar, Jalalabad has historically been a city of strategic importance. It served as a summer retreat for Afghan kings and is situated along major trade routes. The city’s position near the Khyber Pass has made it a crucial location for trade and cultural exchange between South and Central Asia.
Economy and Agriculture
Jalalabad’s economy is driven by agriculture, particularly the production of citrus fruits, wheat, and rice. The fertile lands around Jalalabad support various crops, and the city is also known for its gardens and parks. Cross-border trade with Pakistan boosts Jalalabad’s economy, making it an essential commercial hub in eastern Afghanistan.
6. Kunduz
Overview
Kunduz, with a population of around 268,000, is located in northern Afghanistan. Known for its agricultural productivity, Kunduz is one of Afghanistan’s most important cities in terms of crop production and trade.
Historical Background
Kunduz has a history that dates back centuries, with historical significance during the Achaemenid Empire and the Timurid dynasty. Its location made it a strategic point along ancient trade routes connecting Central Asia with the Indian subcontinent. Despite challenges, Kunduz remains a resilient city with a rich history and cultural heritage.
Economy and Agriculture
Kunduz’s economy is largely based on agriculture, with fertile lands that produce wheat, cotton, and rice. The city also benefits from livestock farming and is known for producing dairy products. Kunduz’s agricultural output is essential for the country’s food supply, and its markets are filled with local produce that sustains the local economy.
7. Ghazni
Overview
Ghazni, with a population of about 270,000, is located in eastern Afghanistan along the Kabul-Kandahar highway. Known for its historical sites and cultural heritage, Ghazni was once a major center of Islamic culture and learning.
Historical and Cultural Heritage
Founded over a thousand years ago, Ghazni was the capital of the Ghaznavid Empire, which made significant contributions to art, architecture, and Islamic scholarship. The city is home to ancient monuments, including the Ghazni Minarets and the Tomb of Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni. Ghazni was recognized as the “Islamic Capital of Culture” in 2013 for its historical contributions.
Economy and Local Life
Ghazni’s economy is supported by agriculture, handicrafts, and trade. The city’s artisans are known for their carpet weaving and pottery, and the local markets are filled with these traditional crafts. Ghazni’s strategic location on the highway linking Kabul and Kandahar makes it an important commercial and cultural hub in Afghanistan.
8. Khost
Overview
Khost, with a population of around 160,000, is located in southeastern Afghanistan near the border with Pakistan. Known for its mountainous landscapes, Khost is a city with a strong tribal culture and a key center for trade with Pakistan.
Geographic and Cultural Importance
Khost’s location near the Pakistan border has made it a vital city for cross-border trade and cultural exchange. The city’s population is primarily Pashtun, and its culture is influenced by tribal traditions. Khost’s mountainous terrain and scenic valleys add to its natural beauty, attracting visitors from across the region.
Economy and Cross-Border Trade
Khost’s economy is based on agriculture and cross-border trade with Pakistan. The city’s markets are bustling with goods from both countries, including textiles, electronics, and food products. Khost is also known for producing quality livestock and dairy products, which contribute to the local economy and provide food security for its residents.
9. Baghlan
Overview
Baghlan, located in northern Afghanistan, has a population of about 145,000. Known for its agricultural productivity, Baghlan is a city with a strong economic base in farming and a vibrant community life.
Historical Background
Baghlan has a history that dates back centuries and has been influenced by various empires and dynasties. The region’s historical monuments and ancient ruins highlight its past, though the city itself has modernized in recent decades. Baghlan’s cultural heritage is still evident in its traditions and local customs.
Economy and Agriculture
Baghlan’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with the fertile lands around the city producing sugar beets, cotton, and wheat. The city is known for its sugar refinery, which processes sugar beets and provides employment to local residents. Baghlan’s markets offer a variety of locally grown produce, contributing to the region’s food security and economic stability.
10. Taloqan
Overview
Taloqan, with a population of around 100,000, is the capital of Takhar Province in northeastern Afghanistan. Known for its agricultural production and scenic beauty, Taloqan is a small but significant city with a close-knit community.
Historical and Geographic Significance
Taloqan has a long history and served as an important settlement along trade routes in ancient times. The city’s geographic location near the Hindu Kush mountains provides it with a stunning landscape and cooler climate, making it an attractive place to live. The surrounding region has historical significance with its ancient relics and cultural heritage.
Economy and Local Agriculture
The economy of Taloqan is primarily based on agriculture, with local farmers cultivating rice, wheat, and barley. Livestock farming is also common, providing meat and dairy products for the community. Taloqan’s small but lively markets reflect the city’s rural charm and its role as a key agricultural center in northeastern Afghanistan.
