Ghazni, Afghanistan

Capital City

With a population of just 30,425, Ghazni is a far cry from the dazzling capital it once was. The cold winters, frequent conflicts, and bureaucratic headaches make this historic city a challenging proposition for most would-be residents. Yet the city's strategic location along major trade routes and its rich cultural heritage continue to draw in a trickle of adventurous tourists. For those undeterred by the harsh climate and persistent security threats, Ghazni may hold appeal - but it's certainly not for the faint of heart.