Kabul

Kabul is the capital and largest city of Afghanistan, located in the eastern part of the country on the Kabul River at the foothills of the Hindu Kush. It sits at an elevation of about 1,790 meters (5,870 feet) above sea level. The city functions as Afghanistan’s political, administrative, economic, and cultural center, hosting government ministries, foreign missions, universities, and major markets.

Kabul has been inhabited for millennia and developed as a key trading center linking Central Asia with the Indian subcontinent. It became the capital of Afghanistan in the late 18th century and has remained the capital through successive dynasties and modern governments. The city has experienced extensive conflict and rebuilding in recent decades, including periods of war, insurgency, and international involvement.

Population estimates for Kabul vary, but the metropolitan area is home to several million people. The city is ethnically diverse, with communities such as Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, and others. The dominant languages are Dari (a form of Persian) and Pashto.

Kabul has a highland climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Precipitation is modest and concentrated in the winter months, and temperatures can vary widely between seasons.

Infrastructure in Kabul centers on Hamid Karzai International Airport, the primary international gateway, along with roads, clinics, and educational institutions. Notable educational establishments include Kabul University and other universities and colleges that serve students from across the country. The city also hosts cultural sites, markets, and historic remnants that reflect its long-standing role as a regional hub.