Bamiyan – The journey from Kabul to Bamiyan is spectacular as one travels through a variety of very different geological formations and mountain passes. Shahr-i-Zohak or the Red City appears as a decorative piece of the mountain as one enters the Bamiyan valley. Even though the Buddhas were destroyed by the Taliban their presence is felt in the valley. One can almost still see their forms. This was one of the most peaceful places I have been.