10 things to do in Mausoleum of Sultan Masud (Mazar-e-Sultan Masud) Ghazni Afghanistan
Mazar-e-Sultan Masud, located in the city of Ghazni in Afghanistan, is a mausoleum and a historical monument dedicated to Sultan Masud III, the last ruler of the Ghaznavid Dynasty. The mausoleum is visited by thousands of tourists each year, eager to explore its rich history. Here are 10 things to do at the Mazar-e-Sultan Masud.
1. Explore the Architecture: The mausoleum is a sight to behold, with its intricate and detailed architecture. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century and features a square-shaped chamber with a large dome. The walls of the mausoleum are decorated with intricate carvings and colorful tiles, while the interior of the chamber is adorned with beautiful calligraphy.
2. Visit the Courtyard: The courtyard of the mausoleum is a large open space surrounded by tall walls and high towers. Here, visitors can take in the view of the city and the surrounding mountains. The courtyard also features a large fountain, which is believed to have been built by Sultan Masud himself.
3. Check Out the Mosques: The mausoleum is home to two mosques, which are located on either side of the courtyard. The larger mosque is located to the east side and is known as the ‘Masjid-e-Jami’, while the smaller mosque is located to the west side and is known as the ‘Masjid-e-Khan’. Both mosques are open to visitors and offer a peaceful place to pray and meditate.
4. Tour the Museum: The mausoleum is home to a museum that houses a collection of artifacts related to Sultan Masud and the Ghaznavid Dynasty. The museum features a number of historical items, including coins, weapons, pottery, and jewelry.
5. Visit the Tomb: The mausoleum also features a tomb, which is believed to contain the remains of Sultan Masud. The tomb is located in the center of the chamber and is surrounded by a marble wall. Visitors are allowed to enter the tomb, but they must be respectful and observe the proper etiquette.
6. Explore the Gardens: The mausoleum is home to two gardens, which feature a variety of plants and trees. The gardens are a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
7. Visit the Bazaar: The mausoleum is located near the city’s old bazaar, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts. Here, visitors can find a variety of items, including jewelry, carpets, and traditional clothes.
8. Take a Hike: The mausoleum is located near the city’s old fort, which is a great place to explore and take a hike. The fort is located on a hill and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
9. Go Sightseeing: The mausoleum is located near a number of other historical sites, including the Minaret of Jam, the Citadel of Ghazni, and the Shrine of Bayazid. These sites are all worth a visit and offer a great way to explore the city’s history and culture.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The city of Ghazni is known for its delicious food, which includes dishes such as qabili palow (rice pilaf), mantu (dumplings), and kabab (grilled meat). Visitors can find a variety of local restaurants near the mausoleum, which offer a great way to sample the local cuisine.