Doshi

Doshi (دوشی) is a town in northern Baghlan Province, Afghanistan, located on the Kunduz River at the northern foot of the Salang Pass. Doshi sits at a strategic junction where the road from Kabul descends from the Salang Pass and splits toward Mazar-i-Sharif and Kunduz. It is a common stop for travellers making the Kabul–Mazar journey.

The town has a mixed population of Tajiks and Pashtuns. The surrounding area is agricultural, producing wheat, cotton, and fruits. The climate features hot summers and cool winters.

By Plane

The nearest airports are Kunduz Airport (UND, 60 km east) and Mazar-e Sharif International Airport (MZR IATA, 80 km north-west). A taxi from either costs around 800–1200 Afs.

By Train

By Car / Road

Doshi lies on the main Kabul–Mazar-i-Sharif highway. From Kabul, the journey takes about 3–4 hours via the Salang Pass. From Mazar-i-Sharif, it is about 1.5 hours south. All buses on the Kabul–Mazar route stop in Doshi.

The town is small and walkable, extending along the main road.

The Kunduz River and the dramatic landscape at the northern exit of the Salang Pass. The road from Doshi to the Salang Pass is one of the most scenic drives in Afghanistan.

Doshi is primarily a transit stop. Take a break at one of the many roadside chaikhanas and enjoy the river views.

Numerous chaikhanas along the main road serve kebabs, rice, naan, and tea — Doshi is the main lunch stop for traffic between Kabul and Mazar.

Green tea and bottled water are abundant. Fresh fruit juices are available in summer.

Basic roadside guesthouses cater to truck drivers and travellers. Rooms from US$5–10 per night.

Snacks, drinks, and basic provisions at roadside shops.

• Puli Khumri (30 km north) — The Baghlan provincial capital.
• Salang Pass (20 km south) — The tunnel through the Hindu Kush, the main route to Kabul.
• Kabul (3–4 hours via Salang Pass).
• Mazar-i-Sharif (1.5 hours north) — The Blue Mosque and regional capital.
• Kunduz (60 km east) — Major city of north-eastern Afghanistan.