Mazar-i-Sharif
Food
Mazar-i-Sharif, located in northern Afghanistan, is famous for rich Uzbek-influenced dishes. One of the most popular meals is Qabeli Palaw—steamed rice with lamb, carrots, raisins, and nuts. Other local favorites include Mantu (steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat), shorba (meat stew), and delicious Uzbek-style kebabs cooked over charcoal. Bread (naan) is essential and often freshly baked in clay ovens. Dairy products like yogurt and qurut (dried yogurt balls) are also common in daily meals.Herat is famous for its delicious Kabuli Pulao, mantu (dumplings), and fresh naan bread.
Clothing
Traditional clothing in Mazar reflects Uzbek, Turkmen, and Tajik heritage. Men often wear colorful chapan (striped coats) over their clothes and embroidered doppa caps. Women wear long dresses with beautiful floral or traditional patterns, often layered with embroidered vests and colorful scarves or chadors. During special events, women may wear silver jewelry and ornate headpieces, reflecting the region’s love for detailed craftsmanship.
Culture
Mazar is deeply tied to spirituality and celebration. The city is home to the famous Blue Mosque, believed by many to house the tomb of Ali ibn Abi Talib. It’s the center of the Nowruz (New Year) festival, when thousands gather for religious and cultural celebrations including traditional music, Attan and Uzbek dances, sports like Buzkashi, and public feasts. Poetry, storytelling, and hospitality are important elements of the city's cultural life, and people from all over Afghanistan visit during special times.
