GHOR

Ghor is a province of Afghanistan located in the central highlands. The provincial capital is Chaghcharan, also historically known as Ferozkoh. The province is characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain with river valleys and a climate that ranges from cool highland to arid lowland. The population is largely rural, and agriculture and livestock production form the backbone of the local economy. Common crops include wheat and barley, along with fruit orchards; many communities rely on pastoralism and seasonal transhumance. The road network is limited, and winter weather can hamper accessibility.

Historically, the region surrounding Ghor gave its name to the Ghorid Dynasty, a Turko-Persian Islamic dynasty that rose in the 11th and 12th centuries. The Ghorids originated from this area and expanded their influence into parts of present-day Iran and the Indian subcontinent, playing a significant role in the medieval political and military history of the region.

In the modern era, Ghor has been affected by Afghanistan’s cycles of conflict and humanitarian need. Development efforts have focused on improving infrastructure, education, health, and rural livelihoods, while security challenges in some districts have constrained progress. The province remains among the more remote areas of the country, with ongoing dependence on agriculture and cross-border trade within the broader Hindu Kush region.