Unlike many rugs that come from Afghanistan, ISHKAR rugs are 100% produced within the country, from sourcing, spinning and dyeing the wool, to weaving and finishing of the rug. This means that Afghanistan's artisans capture more value for their work.

We use high-quality natural materials — wool and sometimes silk — chosen for their beauty, durability, and timeless appeal.

Our rugs are made using Ghazni wool, a variety unique to Afghanistan known for its luxuriant finish and unique way of absorbing colour, giving the rugs a natural abrash. 

Rugs may take anywhere between 1 to 6 months depending on the construction, dimensions, number of colours, and the season. Production can often take longer during wetter seasons.

Hand-knotted rugs - these can take anywhere between 4-6 months to produce. The larger and more complex the design, the longer the lead time. 

Flatweave rugs - these usually take between 2-3 months, depending on the size specified.

For all products, we will be able to provide a more specific lead time once the order has been finalised, and will update you with progress along the way.

This depends on many factors. See our Sizing Guide here for expert guidance from our team.

Yes! We offer customisation of size and colour on almost all of our rugs, allowing you to find the perfect solution for your room or scheme.

We also offer a fully bespoke design service. Find out more here.

Made in Afghanistan from 100% Ghazni wool, our rugs are hardwearing, with Afghan rugs known to last many centuries. Until then, we have a few tips on how to keep your rugs looking good as new:

- Vacuum lightly.
- Keep out of direct and prolonged sunlight.
- If a stain occurs, don't panic, but do act quickly to prevent it from drying.

Stains on flatweave rugs:

- Don’t use stain removal products. Simply wash with water, mild soap and a brush, then dry your rug in the sun if you can.
- For more stubborn stains, we recommend cleaning the rug professionally, with dry-cleaning always being the best option.

Stains on hand-knotted rugs:

- Liquids: use paper towels to absorb. Work gently from the edges toward the centre, so the problem area does not expand.
- Wine, coffee/tea: absorb as quickly as possible, then apply a solution of warm water, detergent and white vinegar with a damp sponge. Wipe with a clean cloth and let dry.
- Professional dry-cleaning is always the best option for dealing with stubborn or dried stains.

A rug underlay is not always necessary, however we strongly recommend using one if your rug is in a high-traffic area and is susceptible to moving around.

You may also wish to buy an underlay to improve the comfort and longevity of your rug. A rug underlay will add cushioning underfoot, making your rug more comfortable to walk on and helping to absorb the friction and wear.

For recommendations on which underlay to source, please reach out for advice on contact@ishkar.com.

If you qualify, ISHKAR's trade benefits include access to our best pricing, complimentary rug and fabric samples, personal consultations with a dedicated member of our team and exclusive access to our new collections and collaborations.

Our trade program is available to industry professionals working in the private and commercial sector.

If you are an accredited interior designer, hotelier, architect, or creative studio, and wish to gain access to our exclusive trade benefits, please contact trade@ishkar.com.

Yes! We do our best to visually display our rugs & fabrics as realistically as possible. But we also know that seeing and feeling it can make it easier to decide.

Whether you’re deciding between colours or simply want to feel the material, our complimentary swatches will help you and your client select the perfect piece. We also offer a trade sample box for £25 for you to have on hand and refer back to for your projects.

Our range of colour and design samples can be posted or viewed in our store on London’s Columbia Road.

Email us at trade@ishkar.com to request a sample.

Hand-knotted rugs - 10m x 15m - 4 to 6 months

Flatweave rugs - 4.5m x 5.5m - 2 to 3 months

If you require larger dimensions, or sooner delivery, please email our team on trade@ishkar.com and we will be happy to assist.

We do not publish our itineraries online. We will give further information about the itinerary upon enquiry. Please write to explore@ishkar.com to request the trip information pack.

The cost includes all accommodation, guiding, road transport, breakfast, lunch and dinner and entrance fees.

It does not include: international flights into and out of the destination country; visa fees; insurance; excess luggage charges; cameras; alcohol; additional food and drinks; medical expenses; tipping.

As early as possible: our trips tend to book up fast! A deposit payment will secure your place, and the final balance needs to be paid 60 days prior to departure. You can pay this online, or via bank transfer directly to us.

We will apply for your visa on your behalf - the standard cost of the visa per person depends on the trip destination. Please read the trip details to find out more.

You are required to have full travel insurance specific to the region and the activities. 

If you are unsure if your existing travel insurance policy will cover you, we can suggest specialist insurance companies.

We use Battleface and highly recommend it. Other options include (but are not limited to): Clements, World Nomads, Petersen, Cambell Irvine or The Universal Insurance Co Ltd.

We will stay as a group for the duration of the trip. You may choose to travel on your own before the start or after the finish of the trip, but whilst travelling with ISHKAR you are requested to remain with the group.

Please speak with your doctor to ensure you have the correct vaccinations for your trip destination.

We will send you a more detailed handbook before leaving, including recommended reading and clothing.

Yes of course! Individuals and small groups are equally welcome. Personally, we also think our trips are perfect to experience with a friend, parent, child, or partner!

Yes of course, our travellers always come from a mix of different countries. Consult our team to coordinate ideal flight routes.