Explore Buddhist Afghanistan by motorcycle

Afghanistan the media won't show us 🇦🇫🏳️

Where in the world is Afghanistan? It's next to Hindustan (India) and Pakistan, Central Asia

These are the white, Caucasian, Central Asian people America destroyed in their longest war?

It's a mellow ride in the foothills of Central Asia

(Matt Shoe) Sept. 27, 2025: Afghanistan, Central Asia [formerly ancient Buddhist Gandhara, Saka-stan, Shakyā Land, Scythia, the real Kapilavastu, in the foothills of the Hindu Kush, part of the Himalayan Range] is one of the most misunderstood countries in the world.

The Monks of the Mines (National Geographic)

After decades of war brought on by empires (British, Russian, American, Chinese) and negative media coverage (US propaganda), most adventure travelers wouldn’t even dream of coming here.

[What is there to see in the Buddha's hometown?]

Who are the Hazara people?

But today, I [a Lithuanian from the EU] set out to show a different side of this country – the beauty, the hospitality, and the raw reality of life in Afghanistan today.

Riding my motorcycle from Kabul to the legendary Bamiyan Valley and the pristine waters of Band-e Amir Lakes, I’ll ride through breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and powerful human encounters.

(Historian Dr. Ranajit Pal)

Along the way, I meet a beekeeper who shares his honey, almonds, and hospitality, explore the ruins of the ancient and massive Bamiyan Buddhas destroyed by the [CIA-ISI's] Taliban, share food with families living in caves Buddhist monastics carved out and occupied around the time of the Buddha and for centuries thereafter, and witness the extreme poverty that 40 years of war has left behind.

Band-e Amir Lake, Bamiyan, Afghanistan

Finally, I reach Band-e Amir National Park – home to one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, crystal clear and surrounded by dramatic canyons.

This is Afghanistan as never seen before: raw, real, and unforgettable. Keep exploring! 🌍✌️

• Buddhism in Afghanistan
• Greco-Buddhism in the Hellenistic Far East

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My e-Books: Guides: mattshoe.travel/guides: ⚠️ Afghanistan Travel Guide. Follow on Instagram: themattshoe. Facebook: mattshoeyoutube. TikTok: mattshoetravel. Business enquires: contact@mattshoe.travel.

• Matt Shoe, Sept. 27, 2025; Dhr. Seven, Amber Larson (eds.), Wisdom Quarterly