Chehelston Palace is one of Afghanistan’s most magnificent historical monuments. It was built in 1796 (Hijri Shamsi) during the reign of King Zaman Shah, on a hill once known as Hindaki—today called Chehelston.
However, some historians believe that the palace was originally commissioned by Alamgir II, the Mughal emperor of India, as a gift for his son-in-law Timur Shah and his daughter Gohar Begum. Later, during King Zaman’s rule, the number of its pillars reached forty, which gave the palace its present name, Chehelston—meaning Forty Pillars.
Throughout history, this palace has been known by different names, including Qasr-e-Nama, Qasr-e-Hindaki, Qasr-e-Sorkh (the Red Palace), and finally Chehelston Palace.
The palace was renovated during the reign of Amir Abdur Rahman Khan and later presented as a gift to his son. Under King Zahir Shah, it was expanded into a four-story structure. Built with marble, bricks, iron, and cement, Chehelston once served as Afghanistan’s official state guesthouse, hosting both local and international dignitaries. According to historians, it was also within these walls that Amir Abdur Rahman Khan signed the Durand Treaty.
Chehelston Palace is surrounded by two enchanting gardens—an inner garden and an outer one—that add to its charm and beauty.
Today, the palace stands as a symbol of Afghanistan’s history, culture, and architectural elegance. Every day, it welcomes visitors from across the country, captivating them with its timeless grandeur and rich heritage.