Afghanistan offers the visitor a rich selection of handicrafts. Luxurious Afghan
carpets, karakul coats, fur overcoats, embroidered material, caps, and hand-woven
silk fabrics and antiques are some of the items that tempt the traveler to lighten
his or her wallet. Afghanistan’s fruits and nuts are seconded to none in flavor.
Gemstones are also a major commodity. However, travelers are urged to be cautious
when purchasing items of questionable origin. Exportation of antiques requires authorization
from the appropriate authorities. Purchase of artifacts belonging to the Kabul museum
or heritage of Afghanistan is punishable by law, and artifacts will be confiscated.
While
there are many places for visitors to shop in Afghanistan, Kocha-e-Murgha, or “Chicken
Street,” is the most famous and historic. Boutiques carry postcards, maps, ashtrays
and boxes made of the famous Afghan blue stone-Lapis Lazuli, antique musical instruments,
and hand-made Afghan carpets. The carpets’ designs, colors and materials - sometimes
wool, silk or a mix, are unique and quite remarkable.
Grocery stores in Afghanistan
stock an assortment of snacks from around the world: fruit juice from Uzbekistan,
jam from Pakistan, bottled water from Italy, cheese from Austria, and cereal from
the United States. Since Chicken Street is the main tourist market in the capital,
you will likely be asked a higher price, especially if you are not with a local guide.
Remember that bargaining is part of the experience!
