Kabul, March 23 (ANI) — Afghanistan recorded a notable increase in foreign visitors during the solar year 1404 (2025), Tolonews reported. Despite years of conflict and ongoing challenges, including security concerns and economic hardship, officials say the tourism sector is showing signs of recovery.
The Ministry of Information and Culture told Tolonews that more than 9,500 foreign tourists visited Afghanistan’s provinces in the first eleven months of 1404. Popular destinations included Herat, Kandahar, Bamiyan, Ghazni and Kabul. Visitors came from a diverse set of countries, including China, Iran, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Russia, the United States, France, Greece and Germany, reflecting growing international interest in ancient sites, historic minarets, fortresses and scenic landscapes.
Khabib Ghufran, the ministry’s spokesperson, emphasized that tourism activity spread across several provinces last year. Cultural analyst Maiwand Faqiri said tourism can play an important role in national recovery, while economic analyst Sayed Masoud warned that Afghanistan has yet to fully exploit its tourism potential, citing regions such as Badakhshan with strong natural attractions.
Analysts note the country’s appeal stems from its rich mix of civilizations and centuries-old archaeological sites, but they also stress the industry remains fragile because of security issues and restrictions on women’s rights since the Taliban takeover in 2021—factors that have discouraged some international travel. Still, officials and tourism advocates hope sustained foreign interest will create jobs, boost local economies and help reshape perceptions of Afghanistan as a nation rich in history and cultural heritage.
This report was sourced from a syndicated feed and published as received.
