Afghanistan primarily relies on neighboring countries for access to ports since it’s a landlocked country. Here are the main types of ports in Afghanistan and their numbers:
- Dry Ports: These are inland terminals that facilitate customs clearance, warehousing, and transshipment of goods. They are strategically located near borders to streamline trade. Some prominent dry ports in Afghanistan include:
- Hairatan Dry Port (Mazar-i-Sharif)
- Shir Khan Bandar Dry Port (Kunduz)
- Islam Qala Dry Port (Herat)
- Torkham Dry Port (Nangarhar)
- Border Crossings: While not traditional ports, border crossings serve as crucial points for the movement of goods and people. Afghanistan has several border crossings with neighboring countries, including Pakistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. Each of these crossings plays a vital role in facilitating trade and transit.
List of Largest Ports Near to Afghanistan
| Port Name | Type of Cargo Ships | Monthly Arrivals |
|---|---|---|
| Karachi Port, Pakistan | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 200 |
| Port Qasim, Pakistan | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 150 |
| Bandar Abbas, Iran | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 100 |
| Chabahar Port, Iran | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 80 |
| Port Klang, Malaysia | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 50 |
| Jebel Ali Port, UAE | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 40 |
| Port Sultan Qaboos, Oman | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 30 |
| Gwadar Port, Pakistan | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 20 |
| Port of Dubai, UAE | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 15 |
| Port of Salalah, Oman | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 10 |
| Port of Karachi Fish Harbour, Pakistan | Fishing vessels | 20 |
| Bandar Imam Khomeini, Iran | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 10 |
| Bandar Anzali, Iran | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 5 |
| Port of Abu Dhabi, UAE | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 5 |
| Port of Muscat, Oman | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 5 |
Major Ports Serving Afghanistan
Afghanistan is a landlocked country and does not have any sea ports. Here is a list of ports from neighboring countries and their details:
1. Karachi Port
Country: Pakistan
City Location: Karachi
Latitude, Longitude: 24.8607° N, 67.0011° E
Overview:
Karachi Port, located in Karachi, Pakistan, is one of the busiest and most important ports in the region. It serves as a major hub for maritime trade, handling a wide range of cargo including containers, bulk cargo, and petroleum products. The port’s strategic location on the Arabian Sea coast makes it an essential gateway for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia. Karachi Port features modern facilities and infrastructure, facilitating efficient handling of goods and contributing significantly to the economic development of Pakistan and neighboring countries.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Karachi | 0 | Karachi Northern Bypass |
| Hyderabad | 160 | N-5 National Highway |
| Sukkur | 470 | N-5 National Highway |
| Quetta | 710 | RCD Highway |
| Multan | 1100 | M-5 Motorway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Karachi City Station – 3 km
- Karachi Cantt Station – 6 km
- Landhi Junction – 15 km
- Drigh Road Station – 13 km
- Karachi Port Trust Station – 1 km
2. Bandar Abbas Port
Country: Iran
City Location: Bandar Abbas
Latitude, Longitude: 27.1865° N, 56.2808° E
Overview:
Bandar Abbas Port, situated in Bandar Abbas, Iran, is a major seaport in the Persian Gulf region. It serves as a vital gateway for trade between Iran, Afghanistan, and other countries in the region. The port handles various types of cargo, including containers, oil, and dry bulk commodities. With its modern infrastructure and facilities, Bandar Abbas Port plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and commerce, contributing significantly to Iran’s economy and the regional trade network.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Bandar Abbas | 0 | Imam Khomeini Highway |
| Shiraz | 540 | Imam Khomeini Highway |
| Zahedan | 1170 | Road 84 |
| Kerman | 780 | Road 96 |
| Isfahan | 1060 | Road 86 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bandar Abbas Railway Station – 4 km
- Bandar Lengeh Railway Station – 88 km
- Jask Railway Station – 214 km
- Bandar-e Charak Railway Station – 55 km
- Bandar-e Jask Railway Station – 115 km
3. Chabahar Port
Country: Iran
City Location: Chabahar
Latitude, Longitude: 25.2916° N, 60.6430° E
Overview:
Chabahar Port, located in Chabahar, Iran, is a key port on the southeastern coast of Iran, near the border with Pakistan. It serves as a crucial transit point for trade between Central Asia, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf region. The port offers various facilities for handling different types of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and petroleum products. Chabahar Port is strategically significant due to its exemption from U.S. sanctions, making it an attractive option for trade and investment in the region.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Chabahar | 0 | Chabahar-Bandar-e Jask Road |
| Zahedan | 1090 | Road 95 |
| Iranshahr | 365 | Road 95 |
| Kerman | 730 | Road 95 |
| Bam | 670 | Road 95 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Chabahar Railway Station – 3 km
- Zahedan Railway Station – 1080 km
- Iranshahr Railway Station – 356 km
- Kerman Railway Station – 724 km
- Bam Railway Station – 672 km
4. Port of Gwadar
Country: Pakistan
City Location: Gwadar
Latitude, Longitude: 25.1216° N, 62.3255° E
Overview:
The Port of Gwadar, situated in Gwadar, Pakistan, is a deep-sea port located at the southwestern coast of Pakistan, near the border with Iran. It serves as a vital link between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asian countries, offering strategic trade routes and access to the Arabian Sea. The port has modern facilities for handling various types of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and petroleum products. Gwadar Port is a centerpiece of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), enhancing connectivity and trade opportunities in the region.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Gwadar | 0 | Makran Coastal Highway |
| Karachi | 610 | Makran Coastal Highway |
| Quetta | 735 | Makran Coastal Highway |
| Turbat | 170 | Makran Coastal Highway |
| Pasni | 160 | Makran Coastal Highway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Gwadar Railway Station – 2 km
- Turbat Railway Station – 170 km
- Pasni Railway Station – 150 km
- Karachi City Station – 610 km
- Karachi Cantonment Station – 610 km
5. Port of Bandar-e Anzali
Country: Iran
City Location: Bandar-e Anzali
Latitude, Longitude: 37.4724° N, 49.4610° E
Overview:
The Port of Bandar-e Anzali, located in Bandar-e Anzali, Iran, is a major port on the Caspian Sea. It serves as an important gateway for trade between Iran, Afghanistan, and the landlocked countries of Central Asia. The port handles various types of cargo, including containers, grain, and general cargo. Bandar-e Anzali Port plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce in the Caspian Sea region, contributing significantly to the economic development of Iran and its neighboring countries.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Bandar-e Anzali | 0 | Anzali Road |
| Rasht | 30 | Anzali Road |
| Astara | 50 | Anzali Road |
| Ardabil | 300 | Sefidrud Road |
| Tabriz | 360 | Sefidrud Road |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bandar-e Anzali Railway Station – 4 km
- Rasht Railway Station – 35 km
- Astara Railway Station – 40 km
- Ardabil Railway Station – 300 km
- Tabriz Railway Station – 365 km
6. Port of Turkmenbashi
Country: Turkmenistan
City Location: Turkmenbashi
Latitude, Longitude: 40.0232° N, 52.9721° E
Overview:
The Port of Turkmenbashi, located in Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan, is a major seaport on the Caspian Sea. It serves as a crucial transit point for trade between Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and other Central Asian countries. The port handles various types of cargo, including oil, gas, and dry bulk commodities. With its modern facilities and strategic location, the Port of Turkmenbashi plays a vital role in promoting economic cooperation and connectivity in the Caspian Sea region.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Turkmenbashi | 0 | Turkmenbashi Highway |
| Ashgabat | 560 | M37 Highway |
| Mary | 660 | M37 Highway |
| Dashoguz | 620 | M37 Highway |
| Balkanabat | 100 | M37 Highway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Turkmenbashi Railway Station – 2 km
- Ashgabat Railway Station – 550 km
- Mary Railway Station – 650 km
- Dashoguz Railway Station – 620 km
- Balkanabat Railway Station – 105 km
7. Port of Khorramshahr
Country: Iran
City Location: Khorramshahr
Latitude, Longitude: 30.4374° N, 48.1815° E
Overview:
The Port of Khorramshahr, situated in Khorramshahr, Iran, is an important port on the Shatt al-Arab river near the border with Iraq. It serves as a vital trade link between Iran, Afghanistan, and neighboring countries. The port handles various types of cargo, including oil, petrochemicals, and general cargo. Despite its location near a historically conflict-prone area, the Port of Khorramshahr continues to play a significant role in facilitating trade and economic development in the region.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Khorramshahr | 0 | Khorramshahr Road |
| Abadan | 10 | Khorramshahr Road |
| Ahvaz | 110 | Khorramshahr Road |
| Basra | 30 | Basra-Khorramshahr Road |
| Dezful | 180 | Ahvaz-Khorramshahr Road |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Khorramshahr Railway Station – 5 km
- Abadan Railway Station – 8 km
- Ahvaz Railway Station – 110 km
- Basra Railway Station – 25 km
- Dezful Railway Station – 175 km
8. Port of Chittagong
Country: Bangladesh
City Location: Chittagong
Latitude, Longitude: 22.3308° N, 91.8156° E
Overview:
The Port of Chittagong, located in Chittagong, Bangladesh, is the largest seaport in the country and one of the busiest in South Asia. It serves as a major gateway for trade between Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and other landlocked countries in the region. The port handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and petroleum products. With its modern facilities and strategic location on the Bay of Bengal, the Port of Chittagong plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and economic development in Bangladesh and neighboring countries.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Chittagong | 0 | Chittagong-Cox’s Bazar Road |
| Dhaka | 250 | N1 Highway |
| Cox’s Bazar | 150 | Chittagong-Cox’s Bazar Road |
| Khulna | 270 | Dhaka-Chittagong Highway |
| Barisal | 350 | Dhaka-Chittagong Highway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Chittagong Railway Station – 6 km
- Dhaka Railway Station – 252 km
- Cox’s Bazar Railway Station – 150 km
- Khulna Railway Station – 270 km
- Barisal Railway Station – 350 km
9. Port of Kolkata (Haldia)
Country: India
City Location: Haldia, West Bengal
Latitude, Longitude: 22.0250° N, 88.0583° E
Overview:
The Port of Kolkata (Haldia), situated in Haldia, West Bengal, India, is a major riverine port on the Hooghly River. It serves as a vital trade link between India, Nepal, Bhutan, and other neighboring countries. The port handles various types of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and petroleum products. With its modern facilities and strategic location near Kolkata, the Port of Kolkata (Haldia) plays a significant role in promoting trade and economic cooperation in the eastern region of India and beyond.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Haldia | 0 | NH 16 |
| Kolkata | 70 | NH 16 |
| Durgapur | 150 | NH 19 |
| Asansol | 180 | NH 19 |
| Bardhaman | 105 | NH 19 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Haldia Railway Station – 4 km
- Kolkata Railway Station – 70 km
- Durgapur Railway Station – 150 km
- Asansol Railway Station – 180 km
- Bardhaman Railway Station – 105 km
10. Port of Dubai
Country: United Arab Emirates
City Location: Dubai
Latitude, Longitude: 25.2769° N, 55.2963° E
Overview:
The Port of Dubai, situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is one of the largest and busiest ports in the Middle East. It serves as a major hub for trade between the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. The port handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and petroleum products. With its modern infrastructure and strategic location on the Arabian Gulf, the Port of Dubai plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and commerce, contributing significantly to the economic development of the United Arab Emirates and the wider region.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 0 | Sheikh Zayed Road |
| Abu Dhabi | 140 | Sheikh Zayed Road |
| Sharjah | 30 | Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road |
| Al Ain | 150 | E66 Highway |
| Fujairah | 130 | Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Dubai Union Station – 20 km
- Abu Dhabi Central Station – 140 km
- Sharjah Railway Station – 30 km
- Al Ain Railway Station – 150 km
- Fujairah Railway Station – 130 km
11. Port of Salalah
Country: Oman
City Location: Salalah
Latitude, Longitude: 17.0325° N, 54.0989° E
Overview:
The Port of Salalah, located in Salalah, Oman, is a major transshipment hub in the Arabian Sea region. It serves as a key gateway for trade between Oman, Afghanistan, and other countries in the Indian Ocean basin. The port handles various types of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and livestock. With its modern facilities and strategic location, the Port of Salalah plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and maritime connectivity, contributing significantly to Oman’s economy and the wider region.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Salalah | 0 | Salalah Road |
| Muscat | 1010 | Nizwa-Salalah Highway |
| Sur | 600 | Salalah-Sur Road |
| Nizwa | 890 | Nizwa-Salalah Highway |
| Sohar | 990 | Muscat-Sohar Road |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Salalah Railway Station – 3 km
- Muscat Railway Station – 1010 km
- Sur Railway Station – 600 km
- Nizwa Railway Station – 890 km
- Sohar Railway Station – 990 km
12. Port of Karachi
Country: Pakistan
City Location: Karachi
Latitude, Longitude: 24.8607° N, 67.0011° E
Overview:
The Port of Karachi, situated in Karachi, Pakistan, is the largest and busiest seaport in Pakistan. It serves as a crucial hub for maritime trade between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. The port handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and petroleum products. With its modern infrastructure and strategic location on the Arabian Sea coast, the Port of Karachi plays a pivotal role in facilitating international trade and commerce, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s economy and regional connectivity.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Karachi | 0 | Karachi Northern Bypass |
| Hyderabad | 160 | N-5 National Highway |
| Sukkur | 470 | N-5 National Highway |
| Quetta | 710 | RCD Highway |
| Multan | 1100 | M-5 Motorway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Karachi City Station – 3 km
- Karachi Cantonment Station – 6 km
- Landhi Junction – 15 km
- Drigh Road Station – 13 km
- Karachi Port Trust Station – 1 km
13. Port of Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
City Location: Colombo
Latitude, Longitude: 6.9271° N, 79.8612° E
Overview:
The Port of Colombo, located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is the largest and busiest port in Sri Lanka. It serves as a key transshipment hub in the Indian Ocean region, connecting South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The port handles various types of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and petroleum products. With its modern facilities and strategic location on the main shipping routes, the Port of Colombo plays a vital role in facilitating international trade and maritime connectivity, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy and regional trade network.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Colombo | 0 | Colombo-Kandy Highway |
| Galle | 120 | Southern Expressway |
| Kandy | 115 | Colombo-Kandy Highway |
| Negombo | 35 | Colombo-Katunayake Highway |
| Matara | 160 | Southern Expressway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Colombo Fort Railway Station – 3 km
- Galle Railway Station – 120 km
- Kandy Railway Station – 115 km
- Negombo Railway Station – 35 km
- Matara Railway Station – 160 km
14. Port of Mumbai
Country: India
City Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Latitude, Longitude: 19.0760° N, 72.8777° E
Overview:
The Port of Mumbai, situated in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, is one of the oldest and busiest ports in the country. It serves as a vital gateway for maritime trade in the Arabian Sea region, connecting India with Afghanistan and other neighboring countries. The port handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, petroleum products, and bulk commodities. With its modern facilities and strategic location in the commercial capital of India, the Port of Mumbai plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and economic development, contributing significantly to India’s economy and regional connectivity.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 0 | Mumbai-Pune Expressway |
| Pune | 150 | Mumbai-Pune Expressway |
| Nashik | 170 | Mumbai-Agra National Highway |
| Surat | 280 | Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway |
| Aurangabad | 330 | Mumbai-Aurangabad Highway |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Mumbai CST – 2 km
- Mumbai Central – 5 km
- Lokmanya Tilak Terminus – 16 km
- Dadar Central – 9 km
- Thane Railway Station – 32 km
15. Port of Mormugao
Country: India
City Location: Mormugao, Goa
Latitude, Longitude: 15.4040° N, 73.8180° E
Overview:
The Port of Mormugao, located in Mormugao, Goa, India, is one of the major ports on the west coast of India. It serves as a key hub for maritime trade in the Arabian Sea region, facilitating trade between India, Afghanistan, and other neighboring countries. The port handles various types of cargo, including iron ore, coal, and general cargo. With its modern facilities and strategic location in Goa, a popular tourist destination, the Port of Mormugao contributes significantly to India’s economy and regional connectivity.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection (Highway) |
|---|---|---|
| Mormugao | 0 | NH 66 |
| Panaji | 35 | NH 66 |
| Margao | 5 | NH 566 |
| Vasco da Gama | 3 | NH 66 |
| Belgaum | 120 | NH 4A |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Vasco da Gama Railway Station – 3 km
- Margao Railway Station – 5 km
- Kulem Railway Station – 26 km
- Sanverdam Chuch Railway Station – 12 km
- Karmali Railway Station – 28 km