Frequently asked questions

The most widely cited theory derives it from 'Iskandar,' the Persian and Arabic form of Alexander, who founded a city here (Alexandria in Arachosia). Other scholars link it to 'Gandhara.' The truth is debated; both point to the city's great age.

In 1747 a tribal jirga near Kandahar chose Ahmad Shah Durrani as king. The state he founded from Kandahar — the Durrani Empire — is the direct ancestor of the modern Afghan state, and the city was its first capital.

It is Afghanistan's second-largest city, with an estimated population around 650,000; Kandahar Province exceeds 1.4 million. Precise figures are uncertain because no full census exists.

Pomegranates and grapes, the Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad, the tomb of Ahmad Shah Durrani, khamak embroidery, and its outsized role in Afghan history and politics.

Conditions change and most governments advise against travel to Afghanistan. Some prepared travelers do visit; read our safety page and current official advisories before making any plans.

Pashto — the Kandahari dialect is often treated as the standard form. Dari is understood in trade and administration, and some English is spoken in hotels and business.

Harvest runs roughly late September to November, with fruit sold well into winter. Orchard blossom in April is the other spectacular season.

Old Kandahar (Zorr Shar), west of today's center, was the walled city destroyed by Nader Shah in 1738. Ahmad Shah Durrani laid out the present city on a new grid shortly after 1747.