Afghanistan

BAND-E AMIR

 Visitors to Afghanistan have always marvelled at the country`s raw,natural beauty.The highlights of this landscape,in the middle of the Hazarajat in the central Hindu Kush Mountains,are the legendary lakes of Band-e Amir.Here you will find six stunningly blue lakes,nestled among 3,000m(9,850ft)magenta and grey rock walls,making a stunningly beautiful and unforgettable contrast.The deep blue of the lakes is due to the combination of water purity and the high lime content.

 Just 75km(46mi) from Bamyian,the lakes of the Band-e Amir Valley are considered one of the country`s natural wonders.The lakes are created by the flow of water of a succession of natural travertine terraces created through the deposition of calcium carbonate,running from the highest lake down to the ones below.The strikingly clear cobalt waters come as a shock to the senses amid this barren and rocky desert landscape.

 Although there is no lush foliage here,there is a variety of animal species.wolves,foxes,hares,wild sheep and Markhor goats as well as large yellow fish,known locally as chush,are found in and around the lakes.Mules and donkeys,commonly used by locals for transport,can also been seen in the area.

 Band-e Amir was declarated a national park,the first in Afganistan in 1973,although it has no legal status

WAT IS IT: Six breathtakingly blue lakes amidst the Hindu Kush Mountains

WHERE IS IT: 75 km (46,6mi) from Bamiyan

WHEN SHOULD I GO: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW: Check with the Foreign Office or your local embassy to ensure safe travel is sanctioned in this often war-torn area

HOW DO I GET THERE: 4x4 from Bamiyan

VARANASI