Asmani Hill, also known as Koh-e Asamai (Dari: کوه آسمایی), is a mountain located directly to the west of downtown Kabul.[1]
Geography and Location
The hill serves as the boundary between Districts 2 and 3 of Kabul Province.[1] The mountain features three peaks with heights of 2126 m, 1975 m, and 2110 m, measuring from north-west to south-east.[1] It is located approximately one mile from the city center of Kabul (Deh Afghanan).[1] The hill divides the city center from the western suburbs, which include Kabul University.[1] To the north-east lies Shahr-e Naw, and to the north-west is Karte Parwan.[1] Deh Mazang is situated to the south, while the old city is to the south-east.[1]
Television Hill
Koh-e Asamai is known colloquially as Television Hill because it houses a large TV mast and antennas at its summit.[1] These terrestrial TV masts have been located on the hill since 1978.[1] As of 2012, broadcasts from this site were provided by 2 kW VHF transmitters.[1]
Communications Infrastructure
The hill serves as a primary transmission site for the city's television communications.[1]
Urban Context
The mountain is the site of an ancient fort.[1] During the Second Afghan War, the Asamai mountains were the location of a prolonged siege and battle in December 1879 involving British forces consisting of the 9th Lancers and 5th Punjab Cavalry.[1] At the foothills of the mountain, there is an important site for Afghan Hindus known as the Asamai Hindu Temple.[1] The temple is one of the oldest in Kabul.[1] It is named after Asha Mai, the Goddess of Hope, who is considered another name for Durga Maa.[1] Afghan Hindus believe that the Goddess of Hope has resided at the hilltop of Asamai.[1][2] The temple was moved to the foothill from its original location on the mountain peak, which retains a small original temple site.[1] A facility known as Asamayee Watt adjoins the lower part of the temple and has existed for thousands of years.[1]