Susa attractions

Susa attractions infographic

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Located in the south-west of Iran, on the foothill of Zagros Mountain, 7000 years old Susa is still shining as one of the first places of ancient civilizations in the world. Urbanizations and also the development of early state took place here for the first time in the world’s history.

Having been the capital of Iran during Elamite, Susa embraces several architectural masterpieces which are quite eye-catching to every visitor. And the interesting point is that history has been documented in this city and they were the very first people who invented script, and more surprisingly, this was not their only amazing invention. Elamites earned many achievements in writing, architecture, sculpture, melting glass, and metalwork. And all these achievements along with natural attractions have made Susa a lovely destination worthy of visiting.

Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, constructed 3200 years ago, is the greatest Ziggurat in the world which is a well-representative of Elamite’s art and architecture. It was a five-floor temple of Elamites with seven gates around and inscriptions with Elamite’s alphabets on its bricks. This great construction has been registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List and attracts many tourists from around the world every year.

People in Susa and in Khuzestan province are known for being hospitable and the local food here is pretty delicious. Traveling to this city to visit all glorious monuments, and meet warm-hearted people will be one of your life-long experiences you will never forget about.

Susa attractions Infographic

To see and download the high-quality infographic, click here: Susa attractions infografic. We would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

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visit Iran

Best time to visit Iran

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When is the best time to visit Iran? Well, Iran is a four-season country offering a wide range of climatic conditions in every corner of the country. You may hear that generally speaking, spring and fall are the best seasons, however, it mainly depends on the purpose of traveling and types of Iran tours you have chosen. To consult us about tours to Iran, please do not hesitate to send an email to info@idt.ir. Stay with us to know more about Iran weather and the best time to visit Iran.

Lovely and mild Spring

Generally, spring is the best season for traveling to any destination, and traveling to Iran is not an exception. From March until May is considered high season in Iran. Ideal temperature, pleasant fresh weather, and also long day hours make this season a perfect one for traveling. This time of year is especially recommended if you aim to reserve a cultural tour to Iran because most cultural sites are located in the central parts of Iran, Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, and Shiraz are normally included in this type of tour and the best time to visit is spring. Besides that, it is interesting to know that from 21 March to 3 April is Nowruz (Iranian New Year) holiday in Iran and you will experience light crowds and plenty of tourists and cultural activities in Iran. Higher prices are expected during this season as well.

visit Iran

From March until May is considered high season in Iran

Hot scorching summer

Summer days in Iran are quite hot and there are fewer travelers around. Especially in the central parts of Iran, where two of the greatest Iran desert exists. However, summer is the best time to travel to the northwest and west of Iran, where extremely cold winter and cool pleasant summer are normally experienced. You can experience mountain climbing, trekking, and swimming in one of the most relaxing mineral hot springs in the northwest of Iran. Prices are often lower due to the hot weather, but there are regions with cool weather and breathtaking landscapes, so, traveling could still be a lot of fun; these including stunning waterfalls and rivers in Kurdistan province, and Aras Baran forests in Azerbaijan province that let you experience some adventure and camping in nature.

visit Iran-summer

Summer is the best time to travel to the northwest and west of Iran.

Cool and pleasant fall

Cool breezes of fall, call for many tourists to come and visit Iran. There are again many cities all over the corners of the country where traveling will be an opportunity. As the temperature turns cool by September, activities like trekking are normally demanded. Prices will be higher than summer but quite fair compare to the spring season. Fall offers a desirable opportunity for all types of tours to Iran, ranging from cultural tours, mostly in the central parts of Iran to many adventure tours such as trekking, hiking, even birdwatching in some lagoons and biosphere reserves in Iran.

travel to Iran

September to October is an ideal time to travel to Iran.

Cold and chilly winter

Iran enjoys extremely cold winters nearly in all provinces. However, there is still two good news for travelers; first, the southern coastline of the Persian Gulf is almost an exception, by this we mean you can enjoy mild and pleasant water sports or simply spending time in the astonishingly beautiful Persian Gulf islands. Second, winter in Iran offers an exceptional opportunity for ski lovers. Being on a budget destination, high altitudes, and good quality powdery snow are three convincing reasons to choose Iran for your next ski destination. Prices are quite low in winter and there are fewer crowds. Winter in Iran could be like heaven for many adventurers around the world.

ski in Iran

Iran weather: Winter in Iran offers an exceptional opportunity for ski lovers.

The most important thing that travelers should know is that most tours are designed to focus on sites located in the central parts of Iran. Iran weather offers its own advantages in every season and the type of tour they demand largely affects their best time to visit Iran.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Vakil museum

Shiraz attractions infographic

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Shiraz, known as the city of flowers, nightingales, and lovers that welcomes visitors with its gorgeous gardens and tall cypress trees. Great Persian poets, Hafez and Saadi have been born and lived in this graceful city and today, their delicate tombs are frequently visited by literature lovers.
However, this is not all about Shiraz; having been the capital of Iran twice in history, the city embraces numerous historical monuments and tourist attractions, some with a worldwide reputation. Many tourists enjoy visiting the 2500-year-old Persepolis city and appreciate its glory. Pasargadae, the tomb of Cyrus the Great, is still respected by many. The architecture of the complex remaining from the Zandiye dynasty also looks quite eye-catching with is charming colorful interior tilework and exterior brickworks. Many photographers appreciate Shiraz for the famous Pink mosque, which is colorful windows that let the light shine into the mosque. People here are well-known for being warm-hearted and hospitable and there is a lot waiting for you to enjoy here.

shiraz attractions

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Si o Se pol

Isfahan attractions infographic

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Isfahan, known as the city of marvel embraces the finest architectural masterpieces. It doesn’t take much to walk from the round dome Vank cathedral to the 400 years Naghshe Jahan square, where king Abbas I used to watch the live polo matches from the porch of his palace but it does make lots of colorful memories. Isfahan attractions are so outstanding and great that no tourist in Iran would like to miss visiting them.

isfahan attractions

To see and download the high-quality infographic, click here: Isfahan attractions infografic.

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Hamadan attractions

Things to do in Hamedan (opening hours, photos, & more)

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History, poetry, knowledge, and art, they all could be found in the old city of Hamedan. Hamadan is a small province, with enormous history, owning one of the largest water cave in the world. It’s a great opportunity for learning more about Iran and its history and culture, so, his city must be included in your list while traveling to Iran. Meeting hospitable and kind locals, watching them bake special sweets, traditional meals, and handicrafts like leather, ceramics, and carpets which are reasons for the fame that Hamadan has received over the years, is a delight. Visit the city of Baba Tahir’s childhood and Avicenna’s burial place, to see part of Iran’s glory.

Ali Sadr Cave

There are no caves that could be compared to Ali Sadr Cave in Hamadan. This is the best tourist spot in the city. The large natural cave, dates back to the Jurassic era, around 150 million years ago. When you look at the entrance of the cave from outside, it is impossible to think that such a massive underground lake could be there, due to the surroundings of the cave which are as dry as the rest of the Hamadan region. In order to enter the cave, you will need to wait in lines at the boat station. A beautiful park is prepared for visitors to have a more pleasant time waiting outside. You will be guided into a chain of boats in which you will ride your way deep into the cave. After wearing the safety jacket and finding your seat, your trip to the Ali Sadr Cave will be officially started. As you enter the cave, you will be welcomed by a cold breeze. Usually inside the cave is colder than outside of it, even in hot summers. So make sure to bring warm clothes with you. The boat ride usually takes 2 hours. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the beauty of the cave; the million years old stalactites and stalagmites, fresh air and clean water. The colorful lightings at the corners add up to the cave’s beauty and make so many amazing photo opportunities. After leaving the boat you may walk up a few stairs to get a closer look at the walls and other natural formations of the cave, so make sure to wear sports shoes. There are no shops in the cave obviously, so it’s better to have water and snacks with yourself. There are a few shops back around the cave. Also a few restaurants and many other Iranian shops, such as a bazaar with lots of pots lying around. Walking in the cave besides pedaling boats makes the few kilometers underground journey, an experience to remember. The visit is well-organized and the guides will share all their information with you to make you always remember this wonderful cave.
Ali Sadr Cave is located outside the city. So you need to take Hamadan Road and drive along to get to the Lalejin city and then take Bijar Road to finally reach Ali Sadr Cave.
Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Hamadan - Alisadr cave

Alisadr cave is the best tourist spot in Hamadan.

Tomb of Avicenna

Avicenna, the great Persian scientist, and philosopher who had laid the foundation stones for modern medicine is buried in Hamadan. The first thing that would probably catch your eyes is the architecture of the tomb. The tomb is located in Bu Ali Sina in the city center. On the first floor beside the mausoleum of Avicenna, there is also a small museum beneath the statue which includes collections of ancient medical equipment that were used before by Avicenna. There are also old handwritten books along with his famous book “The Canon of Medicine” which you can take a close look at it. His achievements and a part of his library are also accessible for visitors to see and learn more about him. As you exit the museum you need to climb the stairs, on top of the museum, in order to get a closer view of the monument which is surrounded by a lovely garden and a fountain.
For getting to the Tomb of Avicenna take a taxi or drive to Bu Ali Sina square.
Opening hours: 8:30 am – 8:30 pm

Hamadan - Avicenna tomb

Avicenna, the great Persian scientist, and philosopher who had laid the foundation stones for modern medicine is buried in Hamadan.

Tomb of Baba Tahir

If you’re fond of Persian literature and architecture, then you might like to visit Baba Tahir’s Tomb as well. Baba Tahir was an Iranian poet who is still well-known for its romantic poems. A legendary poet whose Iranian adore his poems. The tomb has a unique design which its nice calligraphy and complex tile works with the famous poems on the walls, makes it a meaningful place. The interior of the tomb is splendid just like Baba Tahir was. If you compare his tomb with himself, they have a lot in common; simple appearance but beautiful spiritually.

In the evenings there are usually poetry reading and music playing in the tomb. On special occasions, groups of people gather around the tomb and sing out loud and play traditional instruments. Local poets and artists will also appear in the lovely garden and they would read some of Baba Tahir’s poets or their own poets, so you can enjoy listening to them while enjoying the calm and friendly atmosphere by also observing artistic elements of Persian architecture and art. Around the garden, there are many places to have meals or snacks. You can also buy some nice souvenirs from the handicraft and workshops around or a little symbol of Hamadan to keep in your memory.
Opening hours: 9 am – 6 pm

Hamadan

Baba Tahir was an Iranian poet who is still well-known for its romantic poems. 

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Qeshm island

Persian Gulf islands: Qeshm, Hormoz, Hengam (video)

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This short memory of the amazing southern islands of Iran would remind of science fiction scenes. It takes only 2 minutes to explore the mars and moon-like valleys of Qeshm island to the red soil beaches of nature-oriented Hormoz island, stopping by playful dolphins of Hengam island and get dazzled by the shiny handicrafts of Hormozgan local women. Hormozgan province embraces scenic islands among which Kish, Hormoz, Hengam, and Qeshm are the most beautiful ones. Any of which is a wonderful world to be discovered. Qeshm, the island of the Seven Wonders of Iran, has the most beautiful and unique natural phenomena such as Chahkuh valley which is formed by the erosion of sedimentary rocks of the earth. From the mysterious Star Valley to the Chahkuh Strait, Qeshm will amaze with its beauty.

The mangrove forests are also on Qeshm’s list of seven wonders. Also known as Qeshm Green Gold, the forest is home to trees that are rooted in water and are called the great Iranian scientist َ” Avesina Marina”. Not so far from Qeshm, the Hormoz island with the red and silver shore wich enchants the viators. The red sand of Hormoz is not only beautiful but also edible and the local people make the delicious fish sauce with it named “Sooragh”. Even the Portuguese made one of a kind, red castle during the onslaught to the Persian Gulf with that. It doesn’t matter where you came from, being in the southern islands of Iran feels like home, and that’s because of the intimacy and the affection Afro-Iranian people. During the travels with Irandoostan, our guests feel this intimacy and have the opportunity to sing local songs with fishermen on the beach and draw Henna on their bodies with the native women.

The background music you hear in the video is one of the most famous music of South Iranian folk music called “Haleh Mahi” by the Rastak group.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Qeshm island tour.

Nasirolmolk mosque

Shiraz tourist attractions video

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You may have heard Shiraz’s name in case of talking about drinks. However, this wonderful city is a lot more than that. Shiraz is a city that is easy to travel to and very difficult to return from, visitors miss it even before the end of the trip. Shiraz is known as the city of love and poetry in which some great poets such as Hafez, Saadi, Biddle, and many others were born and grew.

Some Iranians believe that the mild and unique climate of Shiraz makes people fall in love. Everything is more pleasing and vivid in Shiraz, even mosques that are places of worship and are usually decorated with a few meaningful colors such as turquoise and azure in other Iranian cities, are decorated with the most vivid colors in Shiraz.

The first few seconds of the video demonstrating the lovemaking of light and colorful glass is filmed in Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque in Shiraz, which is made with a lot of genius and artistic taste. This pink mosque is where Instagrammers and photographers rave about. it seems that it’s not only us, the man of the contemporary generation who has discovered all the beauty and delight of living in Shiraz. But also Zandian, Safavian, and even Syrus the great! Yes, you’re right, this city has been a civilized one for thousands of years! The magnificent parts of the unique and rocky city of Persepolis including Stone solid pillars and the delicate stone-carved sphinx (protectors of the palace); well remained throughout the three millennia, surviving despite floods and earthquakes, brings up the question of whether this precise and engineered work could have been the work of terrestrial humans of thousands of years ago, or whether there was another secret behind it.

All short and simple this one-minute video gives a perspective of historic Shiraz city: from the astonishing pink mosque with all those colorful glassworks to the well-constructed Persian gardens. I’m afraid you’ll miss the scent of heaps of orangery blossom in Shiraz’s garden which is preventable by making the reservation for tours on the Irandoostan website.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

kermanshah, Iran

Things to do in Kermanshah (with photos)

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Known as one of the oldest settlements of the world, there are so many cultural and historical sites in Kermanshah that you can delve into and be able to touch this rich culture and civilization. The pleasant weather, eye-catching landscapes, marvelous sites, delicious souvenirs, and hospitable people are some reasons why you must visit Kermanshah. For more information on cultural tours to Iran, please contact us at info@idt.ir.
Kermanshah is the capital of Kermanshah Province located in the west of Iran at the foot of the Zagros Mountain Ranges. There are so many astounding attractions in Kermanshah for tourists. Not only are there beautiful sites in the city, but also you can find staggering landscapes and historical attractions outside of Kermanshah. In 2006, Bisotun Inscription in Kermanshah was registered as a World Heritage Site of UNESCO. Besides, Taq-e Boustan, Temple of Anahita, Moaveon-ol Molk Tekieh, Dokan-e Davood Rock Temple, Parau Cave, and Niloofar Lagoon are some of the must-see attractions of Kermanshah.

Attractions in Kermanshah City

Ancient Bazaar of Kermanshah

This is the capital hub for trade in Kermanshah and has an age of more than 150 years. This covered bazaar has different stuff that you might find interesting. Do not miss out on visiting the local lifestyle of people in the bazaar.
You can find the bazaar on Modarres Street close to Azadi Square.

Jameh Mosque of Shafei (Shafi’i Mosque)

Dating back to 1945, the staggering Shafeii Mosque has been built like the Turkish mosques. You will undoubtedly like the tall minarets of the mosque. Note that this mosque is built for Sunni Muslims and not Shia.
Close to the junction of Motahari Boulevards and Javaدrshir Boulevard, you can see this mosque.

Dowlat Shah Mosque

Being built in the Qajar Dynasty, the mosque possesses a portal, courtyard, and a Shabestan. It is a beautiful mosque in Feizabad County and has been recently renovated. Right on Javanshir Square, you can see the Dolatshah Mosque.

Emad-ol Dowleh Mosque is another beautiful architectural site that dates back to the Qajar era as well.

Biglar Beigi Takieh

In Persian rituals, Tekieh is a place where Shia Muslims commemorate Imam Hossein’s death (the third Shia Imams). Ornate mirror tiles in the dome room, decorated hall, and inscriptions belonging to King Mozaffar are some of the features of Biglar Beygi Takieh. This is also another architectural masterpiece in Kermanshah that goes back to the Qajar Dynasty. In Feizabad County, on Modares Street, you can go to the Biglar Beig Tekieh.

Moaven-Ol Molk Takieh

If you are so into the monuments belonging to the Qajar period, you must visit the Tekyeh of Moavenol Molk. Religious leaders’ funerals and religious ceremonies were used to be held in this monument. Admittedly, it used to function as a center for solving ethnic conflicts. This Takieh has been built 100 years ago and contains carved illustrations on tiles depicting the battles of Muslim prophets and Imams. On Shariati Street close to Vaziri Square, you can visit this Takieh.

Moaven-Ol Molk Takieh

This Takieh has been built 100 years ago and contains carved illustrations on tiles depicting the battles of Muslim prophets and Imams.

Museum of Anthropology

This museum started its work in 1990 including thirty halls showing various significant agricultural and anthropological items. Musical instruments, equipment for writing, gears of hunting, and traditional customs are some of the items exhibited in the Kermanshah Museum of Anthropology. A few meters away from Vaziri Square, on Shariati Street, you will find the museum.

Khaje Barouk House

During the Qajar Era, this eye-catching monument was possessed by a Jewish merchant. If you want to get acquainted with ancient Persian houses architecture, this house is a well-rounded representative. You can find this house in Faizabad County as well.

Magnificent Attractions Outside of Kermanshah

While visiting Kermanshah, do not miss out on the wonderful attractions outside of the city since they carry a marvelous history and architecture behind their facade. Besides, if you are more of a nature lover, here are some amazing places which you should not miss.

Taq-e Bostan

Meaning the “Arch of the Garden”, is located in the northeast of Kermanshah within five kilometers of Kermanshah. Taq-e Bostan holds a great treasure of Sassanid Empire rock reliefs. These relics depict the ceremonies of kings Ardeshir II, Shapour II, Shapour III, and Khosrow II. This is the cornerstone of Kermanshah tourist attractions. Bear in mind that this complex has a National Park where you can enjoy resting for a while.

Taq-e-Bostan - Kermanshah

Taq-e Bostan holds a great treasure of Sassanid Empire rock reliefs which are considered the cornerstone of Kermanshah tourist attractions.

Bisotun World Heritage Site

Another remarkable site in Kermanshah Province is the Bisotun complex which has been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s List. The complex includes monuments, rock reliefs, caravansaries, and bridges. Bear in mind that it holds one of the most famous yet tragic Persian love stories. The story of Farhad and Shirin belongs to this place. Farhad – a well-known artist and craftsman- was famous for carving rock and fell in love with Shirin -Armenia Queen-. Khosro -the King of Iran- assigned him an impossible task to carve a tunnel through Mount Bisotun -the current Bisotun Inscription- in order to dissuade him from his love. Farhad succeeds in his job but again got deceived by King Khosrow that told him that Shirin has passed away, so he committed suicide.
Additionally, in Mount Behistun, you will find the Shekarchian Cave which dates back to the Paleolithic Era. This inscription has been written in three languages namely Elamite, Babylonian, and ancient Persian. Bisotun inscription has an autobiography of Darius the Great. You can see the Farvahar symbol, the last vestiges of Sassanid Palaces, Ilkhanid and Safavid Carvansaries, and Temury clay ovens in this complex.

Bisotun - Kermanshah

Bisotun, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents one of the greatest Iranian love stories.

Temple of Anahita

Within a 100- kilometer distance to Kermanshah, you can reach the temple in Kangavar. Anahita was a Persian goddess of fertility, water, health, healing, and wisdom. Anahita Temple has an area of about 2.5 hectares and was built during the Sassanid Period. That is why you can see various Sasanid symbols and words engraved all over the place. If you are into Parthian Style, note that the temple has this style as well.

Dokan-e Davood Catatomb (Goordakhmeh Dokan-e Davoud)

If you wonder what a catacomb is, well it is an area dug into the mountains to bury a dead person. This masterpiece goes back to the Achaemenids Era and is located right across the Pol-e Zahab City.

Ghoori Ghaleh Cave (Quri Qal’eh Cave)

Salt deposits and rocky mountains are magnificent remarks of this site which makes it to be an exceptional attraction. It is located on Shahou Mountain within a 90- kilometer distance to Kermanshah. It is said that Quri Qale Cave is 65 million years old. Nature has formed so many astounding halls in the cave.

Ghoori Ghaleh Cave - Iran

Ghoori Ghaleh Cave: Nature has formed so many astounding halls in this 65 million-year-old cave.

Parau Cave

Known as one of the world’s most famous caves, which is both vertical and large. It is located in Mount Parau.
If you like visiting caves, you might take a tour of Do- Ashkaft Cave.

Niloofar Lagoon (Sarabe Niloofar)

This is a wetland only a 25-kilometer away from the city. This is an untouched natural site that you would enjoy visiting.

Hashilan Wetland

In the northwest of Kermanshah, within a 36-kilometer distance, you can see this wetland. The Hashilan Wetland possesses an area of 450 hectares. The number of small islands in the area reaches more than 100. Each island has an area from 100 square meters to one hectare.

hashilan-wetland- Kermanshah

Hashilan Wetland: Kermanshah, Iran

Kermanshah Flower Garden

The garden has about 4000 different species and demonstrates different plants belonging to Japan, France, and Italy.

We hope you found this article helpful. If you have any experience visiting Kermanshah or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. We would be glad to help.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Chalidare, Mashhad, Iran

Things to do in Mashhad (photos, timing, info)

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Whenever you hear the name of Mashhad city, you may probably think of the most religious and boring city in Iran. But the truth is that there are a lot of fascinating and interesting places waiting for you. Mashhad, the capital of Razavi Khorasan province, is a vast and beautiful region located in the northeast part of Iran. This holy city is famous for the production of the best quality saffron in the world, it is also the most popular souvenir among its visitors that everybody loves. Mashhad is the only city in Iran that has millions of visitors each year and it’s the most crowded city on holidays. You can start your trip from The Holy Shrine of Imam Reza to expansive green valleys in Chalidareh to keep an amazing time for keeping in memory. We wish you a spiritual and memorable experience in this holy city of Iran. For more information on religious tours to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

Imam Reza Holy Shrine

If you are looking for a spiritual overhauling experience, the holiest site in Iran, the place where you can find God reflected in your heart without any shadow, is The Holy Shrine of Imam Reza. Imam Reza is the only Imam being buried in Iran therefore his tomb is so respectful among Muslims. Many Iranians and tourists from nearby countries spend some days in Mashhad to visit the tomb of Imam Reza, especially on some holidays like his birth or death dates or even Ramadan, the shrine will be so crowded but it can be visited any time of the year. The shrine contains the mausoleum of the 8th Shia Imam, The Goharshad Mosque, the Library, a dining hall, vast prayer halls for pilgrims, and museums such as carpet and coin collections. You can find ancient coins from the Sasanid dynasty or medals dedicated to the shrine by famous athletes like Takhti; a great and popular wrestler. Non-Muslims can enter the shrine, but they won’t be allowed to approach Imam’s tomb. Women are supposed to wear a hijab and chador to enter the shrine. It’s better to visit here with a local guide to comply with the local customs and rules. There will also be a fast inspection for men and women separately. The efforts of volunteered workers while placing and handling the carpets with love and care to prepare high standards of respect for visitors are admirable. The shrine has got a unique and rich interior that has been built more than a hundred years ago. Mirror and tile works, form a dreamy image to fondle eyes. The golden dome and the blue background of the walls. This shrine is an architectural treasure. Every corner of it has its own spectacular design. For keeping an unforgettable memory of your trip to Mashhad, visit the holy shrine during evening prayers and spend some time by the fountain and watch the white heavenly pigeons flying above the shrine.

Mashhad

Things to do in Mashhad – Imam Reza is the only Imam being buried in Iran therefore his tomb is so respectful among Muslims.

Goharshad Mosque

Goharshad Mosque can be accessed from one of the courtyards of the Holy Shrine and now is a part of the shrine itself. This architectural masterpiece has a great history behind it; the mosque was built by the order of King Shahrokh’s wife, Goharshad, back in the Timurid dynasty. The colors used in Goharshad Mosque designs are the first thing to capture your eyes. You can take a moment to appreciate the beautiful artwork from the Timurid era; the Iranian tiles and plastering work, the shining mirrors on interior ceilings, and the merging minarets on both sides of the iwan, raised from the ground are all samples of Iranian and Islamic architecture.
You can use Mashhad BRT or Metro systems. If you’re using BRT buses, you can reach the shrine from anywhere in Mashhad. You can get off any station at Imam Reza boulevard, Tabarsi St., or Beit-al Moghadas St. in case of using the metro, take Shohada or 17 Shahrivar metro station to access Imam Reza Holy Shrine.
Opening hours: 24 hours

Mashhad

Things to do in Mashhad – The turquoise color used in Goharshad Mosque designs is the first thing to capture your eyes.

Tomb of Nader Shah

The tomb of Nader Shah is iconic for being the burial of a true Persian king. Nader Shah, the founder of the Afsharid dynasty, was a very important figure in Iran’s history that lead Iran into glory and expansion. The tomb is located in Naderi Garden near the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad. It was Nader Shah’s last wish to be buried near Imam Reza’s Shrine after his death. The king’s life had lots of dramas and exciting stories that you can learn about on this site. A monument has been built in remembrance of Nader Shah; a statue of Nader Shah on horseback, along with a number of soldiers mounted on a high volume of stone. The complex contains two museums in which you can find the old map of Iran which had its widest boards in the Afsharid dynasty and weapons such as arrows, guns, cannons, armor, etc. that had been used by the king. There are also bookstore and souvenir shops back of the main building that sells handicrafts and all sorts of gifts. Next to the Nader Shah’s tomb, there is the tomb of Coronel Mohammad Taghi Khan, who was a popular military leader in Iran and was also known to be the first Iranian who successfully could fly an aircraft. Try to take some time in the garden to enjoy the way that the beautiful architecture and designs of this place give it even a more loving and living sense than it already has and feels the magic of history. At last, try the little photography place and dress as kings or queens and keep the memory of your travel to Mashhad.
Get to the Shohada or 17 Shahrivar metro station, then take a taxi or walk for about 5 minutes on Shirazi Avenue and you will reach the Tomb of Nader Shah in Mashhad.
Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Mashhad-Nadershah tomb

Things to do in Mashhad – A monument has been built in remembrance of Nader Shah, the powerful king in Iran’s history.

Chalidarreh Dam Complex

The scenery of this place makes every visitor smile and it provides happy moments for them to experience in Mashhad. Its nature opens its heart to anyone who seeks a break from the tension of city life. Along with the calmness of the place, some activities were provided for visitors to increase their adrenaline and to present a fun and entertaining place to spend a nice day with family and friends. The most attractive feature of Chalidarreh is the chairlift takes you over the lake and the hills around. You can use the chairlifts to go from one station to another. There is also a train that will take you up the hills to have a nice view of the lake and its surroundings. The lake has many functions like watering the farmlands which have a great profit for the Chalidarreh complex as well. Cross over the lake by paddle or speed boats that have been prepared for your boat riding. A small zoo and bungee jumping and zip lines have been provided for your interests. Daredevils can use the zip line to fly over the lake. There are different types of restaurants and cafés around, in which you can enjoy a nice view of the lake while enjoying your time with your family and friends.
Drive or take a taxi to Torghabeh, get to Imam Reza boulevard, and then at the end of the Khomeini ring road, you will reach your destination.
Opening hours: 9 am – 12 am

chalidare

Things to do in Mashhad – The surrounding nature of Chalidare opens its heart to anyone who seeks a break from the tension of city life

Kang Village

If you’ve never seen an ancient village built up over a hillside, then you would definitely get excited to see Kang Village. The architecture of the village is fascinating. The houses are built in a way that the roof of one house is another house’s front yard. The people who still live here are so kind and simple. Watching the people still caring for each other and helping one another, just melts your heart. Visitors believe autumn is the best season to visit Kang Village because of the colorful leaves along the river that makes an outstanding scenery. The fresh air and a beautiful view with a calm atmosphere are all you need to tramp around and relax for a moment. Having both views of mountains and rivers is just a gift to appreciate life and enjoy the moment. That’s all traveling is about.

Kang_village-Iran

Things to do in Mashhad – visitors believe autumn is the best season to visit Kang Village because of the colorful leaves along the river that makes outstanding scenery.

You can buy some dried fruits or smocked tea to freshen up and keep up climbing the stepped village and seek out more history of this thousand of years old village. If you could reach the top of the hill, you will find an amazing photo opportunity of the village which will be unique in your own way. You won’t ever get enough of this village and its kind people. So make sure you pay a visit to this lovely person in Kang Village.
From Mashhad, take the imam Khomeini ring road of Torqabeh and then go along. As you enter the Noghondar road, the road ends up by the village of Kang and you will reach your destination.
Opening hours: 24/7

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Yazd windtowers

Yazd virtual tour (free)

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It seems like Covid19 has huge creativity in wasting our time! Quarantine is often an unpleasant experience for those who are crazy about traveling and discovering the world. Fortunately, there is no limitation in the internet world. Well, don’t worry! You can now take virtual tours of Yazd,  right here on the Irandoostan website. For more information on tours to Iran please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

DowlatAbad garden

You might think that because Dowlatabad Garden has the tallest windbreak in the world, the windbreak building is the main part of it, but we recommend you not to miss a single click in this section. Many buildings are considered to be the main parts of the garden: The Reservoir, the mirrorball, the windbreak room, etc. The existence of all these main parts of Dolatabad has made it independent of other parts of the city just like a small autonomous city. The first part you can see from inside the building is the octagonal Hall or Hashty, with a geometrically shaped roof and wooden lattice doors. If you go to Dolatabad Garden on a hot day in the real world, you will feel the cool fresh air on your skin as soon as you enter this area. Upon entering the vestibule, there will be a windbreak room and three alcove rooms will be around you. There are no ornamental plants in the garden, but the shady and fruitful trees have been planted due to the improvement of the air circulation in this garden in the middle of the desert.

Dolat abad garden _ yazd

Yazd virtual tour – Dolat Abad garden, where the highest windcatcher of the world exists.

Fire temple of Yazd

Fire temples are places of worship of Zoroastrians, as Yazd is the center of Iranian Zoroastrians, the most famous fire temple of Zoroastrians “Atashkadeh Bahram Yazd” is located in this city. The architecture of this fire temple is inspired by the Achaemenid style. There is a pool in the front area of Atashkadeh, the floor of which is covered with coins. In the public belief throwing coins in the pool of the fire temple, their wishes become true. Inside the temple, just in front of the entrance, there is a room where the sacred fire (the sacred element of Zoroastrianism) is lit. And since the sacred fire should not touch the souls of ordinary people, it is only possible to watch from the window. Outside the temple on your right, there is a path leading to the photo gallery and then to the traditional water reservoir of the complex.

Fire temple of Yazd

Yazd virtual tour – “Atashkadeh Bahram” or the fire temple of Zoroastrian in Yazd.

The Jameh Mosque of Yazd

The Jameh Mosque of Yazd is best known for its high porch and minarets. In this mosque exists one of the tallest minarets in the world, the height of which reaches the height of a 17-story building. The courtyard of the mosque is about twice the size of a tennis court and is surrounded by arched entrances In the middle of the yard, something like a pond can be seen, which is filled with materials instead of water. This is what is called the moonlight platform because on some hot summer nights the prayers are used to perform there under the moonlight. By following the arrows, you will reach the summer part where you have to turn the mouse upwards and watch the high and unique dome of the Jameh Mosque of Yazd.

Jameh mosque of Yazd

Yazd virtual tour – The high porch of the Jameh Mosque of Yazd.

Amir Chakhmaq Square

Amir Chakhmaq complex is among the most significant historical monuments in the old part of Yazd which is named after its founder “Amir Jalal Chakhmaq”,  a commander in the Teymorid era with his wife. Amir Chakhmaq complex includes different parts: The mosque, the Bazar, the cistern, and the Nakhal. Down the many stairs beside the mosque you’ll visit the cistern of the complex and now is a small museum gallery. At the east of the mosque, in the middle of Bazar, exists the Zoorkhaneh which is somehow a traditional gym for Iranian ritual sports that are performed with special songs and instruments. This place used to be a reservoir of the cistern at the time. Don’t forget to click on the roof and the porch to enjoy the landscape.

Mirchakhmaq Square

Yazd virtual tour – Historique Mirchakhmaq Square of Yazd.

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