Istalif

Pottery production has defined Istalif for generations, making this historic town in Kabul Province's Koh Daman area one of Afghanistan's best-known craft centres. Set above the Shomali Plain north of Kabul, it is also known for its orchards and vineyards — the town's name may even derive from the Greek word for "bunch of grapes," a trace of Hellenistic influence in the region. The surrounding valley offers hiking in both summer and winter, with mountain access and tree-shaded paths through the settlement itself.

• Population41,413
• Nearest water2.0 km
• Nearest mountain3.3 km