kashan

Things to do in Kashan (Photos, timing)

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Known as the city of flowers and rose water, you may have heard a lot about Kashan’s magnificent historic houses and arts. It is a great city where you can stay at least for a day to enjoy the architectural houses, beautiful mosques, carpets, and pure rosewater. Being close to Tehran (244 Km, about a three-hour drive) is a positive point about Kashan, and you can visit it at either the beginning or end of your trip to Iran. Below, we have introduced you to the best Things to do in Kashan.

Fin Garden

Fin Garden is one of the nine Persian Gardens that UNESCO registered as a World Heritage Site in 2012. Fin Garden in Kashan was built under the command of Shah Abbas I as a symbol of paradise and an entertainment resort for Safavid rulers. Some repairs were carried out during the Qajar Era, while the overall design remained the same. A pretty significant political issue has happened in this garden. Minister Amir Kabir (a famous and well-liked Iranian Chancellor in the 19th century) was murdered here during the Qajar dynasty.

Turn northeast on Shahid Ardahal Square, and after three kilometers on Amrkabir Street, You will reach Kashan Fin Garden.

Fin Garden

Things to do in Kashan – Fin garden; a symbol of paradise

Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Agha Bozorg Mosque

During the late 18th century, this magnificent building served as a mosque and a school. The building was constructed to house Agha Bozorg’s prayers and preaching sessions. Aqa Bozorg Mosque has a unique symmetrical architecture with two courtyards and a stunning domed chamber. This four-story mosque has an interior courtyard with a pool, minarets, and wind towers. The ceiling of the mosque is something you should look up to. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you since every corner of this historical monument is worth a shot.

On the west side of Kamal-ol-Molk Square, at Fazel Naraqi Street, you will find Agha Bozorg Mosque.

Agha Bozorg mosque

Things to do in Kashan – A unique symmetric architecture in Agha Bozorg mosque

Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

National Museum of Kashan

The National Museum of Kashan is one of the oldest museums in our country and one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Kashan, located within the historical Fin Garden. The National Museum of Kashan was built in 1966, and you can find it on the west side of Fin Garden. There are more than 400 pieces from the 7th millennium BC to the very contemporary era- in the National Museum of Kashan. This museum is a single-story building with multiple halls and a large basement. Make sure to take pictures and share them on your social media, it will definitely be unique.

Head southwest of Amir Kabir Street, and you can find the National Museum of Kashan at the end.

Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Kashan Bazaar

There are different stories about the construction time of this bazaar. Some believe it goes back to the Seljuk era, while others think it is a masterpiece of the Safavid Dynasty. There are many mosques, tombs, baths, and Timcheh in Kashan Bazaar. If you are visiting this bazaar, don’t miss Amin-o-Dowleh Timcheh. Amin-o-Dowleh Caravansari, also known as Amin-o-Dowleh Timcheh in the Kashan Bazaar, is a three-story caravansary where people used to trade goods.

On the west side of Imam Khomeini Square, on Mohtasham Street, turn right at 15th Nikuii, and you can see the grand Bazaar of Kashan.

Kashan bazaar

Things to do in Kashan – Kashan Bazaar and its ceiling

Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

This traditional bathhouse -or as they call it in Persian, “Hammam”- goes back to the Seljuks’ Era (11th century). The magnificent decorations and traditional structure catch each visitor’s eyes to deepen in the ancient lives of the local people. The bathhouse is divided into two parts; the dressing hall and the bathing hall. The ceilings and walls feature turquoise and gold paintings and tilings. Additionally, make sure you visit the rooftop with its many domes and spectacular city and mountain views.

Head south on Alavi Street, and within a 400-meter distance, you reach Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse.

Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

Things to do in Kashan – Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Kashan Jameh Mosque

The Kashan Jameh Mosque, which is about 800 years old, is one of the astonishing historical treasures in the city and has long been a tourist attraction. The Jameh Mosque, generally known as the Kashan Friday Mosque, dates back to the pre-Islamic and Seljuk eras. In addition to its brick dome, the mosque features a mausoleum and a high porch below it. Outside is a large courtyard, two large naves, a lower nave, and a basin in the middle. This mosque was registered in the list of national monuments of Iran. Visit Kashan’s Jameh Mosque, a relic of the Seljuk era, and get a sense of the style of the mosques of that period when you are there.

Kashan Jameh Mosque is located in the Meydan Kohne (Old Square) neighborhood on Baba Afzal Street.

Jameh mosque of Kashan

Things to do in Kashan – The Jameh Mosque of Kashan

Kashan Traditional Houses

Kashan is quite well-known for its beautiful architectural masterpieces, which used to be luxury houses belonging to wealthy export-import traders. Most of these houses date back to the 29th century. Some of these houses have been renovated, while others have been divided into smaller units. However, a few of them have been preserved. Below, you can see the traditional houses in Kashan which have been preserved:

Tabatabaei House

If you want to get more familiar with Persian culture, roaming around Persian houses might be the most fulfilling experience as you will be able to observe where and how the local people used to live. Stained glass windows and stone reliefs are two features of the Tabatabaei Historical House. Almost most of the historical houses of Iran have this stunning architectural style. The spectacular monument was built under the command of Jafar Tabatabai, a well-known carpet merchant. The house has an area of 4700 square meters, including 40 rooms, 4 yards, 4 basements, and 3 windcatchers. In addition to its endless beauty, the interior includes multi-colored mosaic windows and paintings that add to its everlasting beauty.

Head south on Alavi Street, and enter Sultan Amir Ahmad Street, and find Tabatabaei House.

Abbasi House

Things to do in Kashan – Abbasian Historical House in Kashan city

Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Abbasi House

The astonishing stained glass windows at Abbasi Historical House catch any visitor’s attention. If you want to face a kaleidoscope of colors through windows, it is better to visit this house on a sunny day. Located in the central part of Kashan, the Abbasi house is protected by the Iran Cultural Heritage Organization, partly renovated, and turned into a public museum. The interior of the house is decorated with lattice, mosaic windows, stucco reliefs, and carvings.

Head south on Alavi Street, and within a 210-meter distance, you reach Abbasi House.

Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Manouchehri Historical House

Functioning as a hotel these days, Manouchehri Historical House was built in the 17th century. This house is one of the most unique traditional residences with 9 individual rooms, a restaurant, a movie house, a velvet, and zari weaving workshop, a gallery, a handicraft store, and a book store. Khaneh Manochehri restaurant in Shahneshin on the Eastern front of Shahneshin is one of the most beautiful dining spaces. A room with straw walls and colored plaster grids above the doors reflects the Iranian style.

From Mohtasham Street, head southeast on Sabet Alley, stay on Sabet Alley and then continue on 7th Emarat Alley.

Manouchehri house

Things to do in Kashan – Manouchehri House

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

khaju bridge

Things to Do in Isfahan (Photos, Info, Timing)

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Isfahan is filled with wonderful structures belonging to the Seljuk and Safavid Dynasties. It is a city of rich Persian art, history, culture, and handicrafts that you should not miss. There are beautiful palaces, bridges, mosques, and bazaars in Isfahan that are a great representative of the beautiful four-season Iran. In this article, we have included the best Things to do in Isfahan.

Naghshe Jahan Square

Don’t mistake it for the usual square right in the heart of the city. Naghshe Jahan Square, also known as Imam Square, is a significant square full of wonders and archaeological masterpieces belonging to the Safavid Era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has great attractions on each corner, and there are many stores all around the square presenting remarkable Isfahan handicrafts and art.

You can find Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque on the east, Shah Mosque on the south, Ali Qapu Palace on the west, and Qeysarie Bazaar on the north side of the mosque, which are the prominent attractions of this square.

There are so many colorful tiles and calligraphic inscriptions in the Sheikh Lotfollah and Shah Mosque. Geisarie Gate is actually the main portal to the Isfahan Grand Bazaar.

Isfahan grand bazaar

Isfahan Grand Bazaar

Visiting Naghshe Jahan Square may take more than half a day, but it’s totally worth it. Take your time exploring the rich culture of Isfahan; rushing your visit to Naqshe Jahan Square means you might miss a lot. Just take your time and explore each corner’s beauty slowly. By the way, you can get on a horse and go through the square from an upper view.

Naghshe Jahan Square is close to Darvazeh Dowlat Square. With a 1- km walk, you will reach there. Just go on the east side of the square on Sepah Street, and within a 10-minute walk, you reach Naqshe Jahan Square.

Opening Hours:

Spring & Summer: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Autumn & Winter: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Qeysarieh Bazaar

The Qeysarieh Bazaar, located in the heart of Isfahan near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is one of the most famous and historically significant bazaars in Iran. The bazaar, which dates back to the Safavid period in the early 17th century, was built during the reign of Shah Abbas I to facilitate trade and commerce, especially with Europe and Central Asia.

The bazaar is a labyrinth of covered passageways, archways, and shops, each offering a wide variety of goods, including textiles, spices, jewelry, carpets, and traditional Persian handicrafts. The entrance to the bazaar is marked by a monumental iwan, which leads visitors into the vast network of corridors and courtyards.

The architecture is characterized by traditional Persian vaulting and tile work, with high domed ceilings that create a cool, shaded atmosphere. The bazaar was once a thriving commercial center and continues to be a lively market, drawing both locals and tourists.

In addition to its commercial importance, Qeysarieh Bazaar is home to numerous historical landmarks and architectural gems, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Persian culture and history.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 9 PM

Shah Mosque

The Shah Mosque, also known as the Imam Mosque, is located on the southern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan. It was constructed between 1611 and 1630 during the reign of Shah Abbas I, who wanted it to reflect the power and prestige of the Safavid Empire.

Shah Mosque Photos

Shah Mosque Photos

The mosque is an exquisite example of classical Persian architecture, combining elements of Islamic calligraphy, tile work, and monumental design. The mosque’s stunning blue tile mosaics, paired with its grand iwan (vaulted hall) and a vast prayer hall with an enormous dome, are striking features.

The two minarets, standing over 40 meters tall, dominate the surrounding landscape. One of the most remarkable architectural aspects is the mosque’s acoustics: sound in the central dome echoes perfectly across the space.

The Shah Mosque also features a large central courtyard and an ornate entrance portal, both decorated with intricate geometric patterns and Qur’anic inscriptions. The mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to serve as a place of worship and is open to tourists daily.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, located on the eastern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, Iran, is one of the finest examples of Safavid-era architecture. Commissioned by Shah Abbas I and completed in 1619, the mosque was originally built for the royal court and was never intended for public worship.

The mosque’s unique feature is its asymmetrical design, as it was constructed to fit into a corner of the square. The most captivating aspect of its architecture is its intricately detailed dome, which appears to change color throughout the day, from soft ivory in the morning to rich golden hues in the evening.

The interior of the mosque is adorned with stunning tile work, including intricate floral patterns and verses from the Quran. The structure is a masterpiece of Islamic art, with delicate stucco decorations and a serene, almost ethereal atmosphere.

The mosque’s prayer hall features a stunning muqarnas dome, and the central courtyard has a tranquil pool that reflects the beauty of the structure. The mosque remains a testament to the artistic and architectural grandeur of the Safavid dynasty.

Open to visitors daily, though hours may vary during religious holidays.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Ali Qapu Palace

Ali Qapu is a grand palace located on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan, built during the early 17th century by Shah Abbas I. The palace was initially constructed as a royal residence and a place for receiving guests, offering a commanding view of the square.

Ali Qapu Palace Isfahan

Ali Qapu Palace Isfahan

The name “Ali Qapu” means “Great Gate,” signifying its role as the gateway to the royal complex. The building’s design reflects Safavid architectural styles, with a tall, multi-story structure, intricate tile work, and extensive use of wooden ceilings.

The most remarkable feature of Ali Qapu is its second-floor music hall, which was used for royal gatherings and music performances. The room’s acoustics were carefully designed so that the sounds from musical instruments would reverberate perfectly throughout the space.

The palace’s terrace offers a panoramic view of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the mosque complex, and the surrounding areas. The architecture’s harmonious blend of function and beauty made it a symbol of royal power.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Jameh Mosque of Isfahan

Wondering what walking through time might mean for an attraction in Isfahan? Well, Jameh Mosque of Isfahan has undergone gradual changes during the last centuries, which is why you will be confronting changes through time in this mosque.

In different dynasties, there were some remodeling and reconstructions in the mosque styles. Its magnificent architectural design has a prominent effect on Iran and Central Asia. Besides, Jameh Mosque has an open area with a magnificent view of the sky.

Jameh Mosque of Isfahan

Jameh Mosque of Isfahan Interior

To get to Jameh Mosque, you need to head north on Majlesi Street, and Jameh Mosque is just on the right side of the street.

Opening Hours: 9 – 11 a.m. & 1- 4:30 p.m.

Zayandeh Rud River

One of the great features of Isfahan is the Zayandeh Rud River and its bridges right in the middle of the city. In the south of the beautiful Chahar Bagh Abbasi Street, you can reach the eye-catching Sio-se-pol Bridge. This bridge spans the Zayandeh Rud River and is a two-story bridge with 33 arches that stretch across the Zayanderud River.

Unfortunately, due to the climate changes, downstream of the river has dried up several times in recent years. But if you are lucky, you will be amazed by the beauty of the river and the Sio-Se-Pol bridge as well. The great point of this bridge is that you will find local people singing or reciting a poem on the bridge at night, and the scenery is just wonderful.

A few meters away, you can see Khaju Bridge. This bridge was built during the Shah Abbas II Kingdom. In the two-story Kahju Bridge center, there is a pavilion where you can enjoy the landscape.

The river is just across Bozorgmehr Square. Head to the west of the square, and within a 1-kilometer walk, you will reach the Khaju Bridge. After crossing one extra kilometer, you will get on the magnificent Sio Se Pol Bridge.

Khaju Bridge

Khaju Bridge on Zayandeh Rud

Vank Cathedral

Right in the center of the Jolfa area, which is the Armenian quarter of Isfahan, you can find Vank Cathedral also known as Amenaperkich Cathedral. The multicolored murals and frescoes in the church are a must-see when visiting Isfahan. This church has vividly depicted biblical stories.

Bear in mind that cameras are not allowed to capture these brilliant patterns and paintings on the ceilings and walls. It is on Middle Nazar Street, right along the Zayandeh Rud River.

Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Chehel Sotoun Palace

Chehel Sotoun Palace is one of the Persian Gardens registered on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. Its name (“Chehel Sotoun” means “40 pillars” in Persian) comes after the palace’s 20 pillars and it is said with the reflection on the water in the front pond, you can see 40 pillars; which is actually not true.

This palace was also built under the command of Shah Abbas II. This site was constructed as an entertainment center for the king’s guests. You can see magnificent frescoes and paintings on the ceiling and walls.

Chehel Sotoun Palace Isfahan

Chehel Sotoun Palace 

Unfortunately, a great number of its ceramic panels have been dispersed and you will find them in European museums. On the east side of Darvazeh Dowlat Square, on Sepah Street, you can see the magnificent Chehel Sotoun Palace.

Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Isfahan Music Museum

If you have artistic taste and specifically you are a fan of musical instruments, Isfahan Music Museum is a MUST-VISIT in the Jolfa area. It has a collection of more than 300 traditional Iranian instruments.

The remarkable point about visiting this museum is that the guides at the museum play the instruments for you to showcase their differences and their specific sounds. Besides, in peak times, you can enjoy live Iranian folk music by the musicians of the museum. To get to Isfahan Music Museum, just head North on Tohid Street and turn left at Mehrdad Street, where you can see the museum.

Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sofeh Mountain

If you hike on a regular basis and you are searching for a place around Isfahan to exercise a bit, Sofeh Mountain is a good option. Note that it is 590 meters above sea level and takes you less than two hours to reach the peak. Besides, the route to the peak is almost paved, so don’t worry if you don’t have suitable hiking shoes with you.

To reach Mount Sofeh from the Darvazeh Shiraz Square, head east toward Hezar Jerib Avenue and turn left onto Soffeh Boulevard. You will easily get there in a 10-minute ride.

Zoroastrian Fire Temple

The Atashkade belongs to the Sasanian Era and is located on a hillside a few kilometers from the western part of Isfahan. With a little bit of hiking, you will have an excellent panorama of the scenery at the Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Isfahan. The temple is on East Nazar Street along the Zayandeh Rud River.

Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Isfahan

Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Isfahan

Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. & 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Varzaneh Desert

There are numerous well-known deserts in Iran, and we highly suggest visiting at least one of them. If you have limited time and Isfahan is on your list, Varzaneh is a great option to visit since it is right next to Isfahan. At Varzaneh, you can either have a night camping tour in the desert or stay at its beautiful traditional guesthouses.

Varzaneh desert Iran

Varzaneh Desert

Varzaneh is within a two-hour drive distance of Isfahan. Bear in mind that it is not just limited to its desert; there are some historical sites and the beautiful Salt Lake you can visit during your stay.

Last Words

This was just a shortlist of a few attractions in Isfahan, but as it is said “Isfahan Nesf-e Jahan” means that Isfahan includes half of all the culture, history, and beauties of the world. If you are lucky enough to have extra time, try visiting Hasht Behesht Palace, Monar Jonban, Saeb Tomb, Avicenna Tomb, Majlesi Tomb, Angorestan, Malek Historic House, Bird Garden, and Pigeon Tower.

This is not where it ends, Isfahan is a tasty city where you can find delicious foods, sweets, and snacks. Don’t miss trying Beryani and Khoresh Mast -the famous Isfahani dishes-, and buy some Gaz -Isfahan pretty delicious sweet- for your loved ones.

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

Shahsavan nomads in Iran

Where to visit Iranian Nomads? Bakhtiari, Turkmen & Qashqai

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The history of nomadism in Iran dates back to the second millennium BC, the arrival of Aryans to the central plateau of Iran. The tribal lifestyle has been alive until today in four corners of Iran, and 19 Iranian tribes are still migrating for survival, from the hillsides to the plains. Among all those tribes, some are still totally committed to their values and have maintained their culture, language, and lifestyle for centuries. Traveling with these people reveals a lot of hidden treasures of Iranian culture, and this journey is possible in both winter and summer. Stick with us to know more about Iranian nomads.
Iran Nomads Tour gives you a chance to make unforgettable memories and outstanding opportunities to meet and travel with nomads, understand their culture, visit their tents, and taste their traditional food. The feeling of living with Iran nomads is something you have never experienced before. With the surrounding nature and magnificent scenery before your eyes, accompanying a tribe of nomads is all you need for your next exciting tour. You can experience what it’s like to be a shepherd, a nomad living in the deep wilderness with Iran nomad tours.

Are nomads tourists?

Both tourists and nomads enjoy traveling a lot, but their purpose for doing so is very different. Tourists plan their travel for a short period of time to take a break from everyday life. On the other hand, nomads travel endlessly. Nomads do not have a limitation on how long to stay in a place, but it is usually around months, not weeks. They experience their everyday life while traveling. They are moving their whole belongings to live from place to place. Nomads also don’t have to set up a time to do all the sightseeing in just one or two days; they always have the next day. But that is not the case for tourists!

Who are nomads in Iran?

Nomads are the kind of people who do not limit themselves to a fixed home. They travel from place to place every time winter and spring arrive, searching for food, water, and pasture for their animals to feast on. Iran nomads raise sheep and goats and then sell the meat, wool, and dairy products of these animals to buy other food to feed their families. Iran has one of the largest nomadic populations of any country, and among them, there are some famous ones with more populations.

Bakhtiyari Nomads

What if every single scene of “The Grass_1925” still takes place in reality on the hillsides of the Zagros mountain range? Bakhtiyari nomads call themselves “brave as Iranian lions”. They migrate twice a year between Khuzestan and Lorestan (both historical and touristic regions of Iran, with some sights dating back to more than 6,000 years ago). Since livestock is considered the main source of income in nomadic life, everyone in the tribe, both men and women, is in charge of animal husbandry. Bakhtiari women also weave small rugs known as “Ghalicheh” in their free time. A quick Google search for Bakhtiyaris will give you a clue that finding a golden planet in the galaxy is much easier than finding a Bakhtiari man without a Mustache! The Bakhtiyari style has been the same for years: the black and white coat reminds me of a piano named Chogha with loose pants and black hats for men and long colorful dresses with adorable bead embroideries for women. Kooch with Bakhtiyari nomads to hear the old travelers of Zagros speak the Lori dialect of the Persian language. Opening your eyes to the pristine nature before any birds wake up, and sleeping with the Lori lullaby in a tent, is not an occasion to miss!

Bakhtyari Nomad

The black and white coat reminds of a piano named Chogha with loose pants and black hats for men.

Qashqai nomads

The Bakhtiari people are not the only migrants of the Zagros hillsides. The Qashqai tribe is another great nomad tribe in the southern part of the Zagros mountain range. Thinking of the Qashqai word, for me, I personally recall tulip-shaped hats and big populated parties, including traditional music and dance in nature (mostly wedding parties). These people hold the title of “best nomad rug weavers” in the Persian Carpet category. Although Qashqai nomads immigrate between the Zagros hills and Fars province, they are mainly Turkish speakers! The same as their Bakhtiari neighbors, the Qashqai people earn their livelihood from animal husbandry and carpet weaving. Do not forget to taste their food if you do not want to miss a delicious organic dish cooked on fire!

Qashqai nomad

Qashqai people immigrate between Zagros Hills and Fars province

Balochi Nomads

The Baloch are Iranian people who live mainly in Balochistan in Iran and Pakistan, alongside neighboring areas of Afghanistan. The Balochs speak Balochi, and they are originally Iranian. Baloch nomads live in tents (gidam) made of palm matting stretched on poles. More recently, houses are made of sundried brick. They are scattered along narrow, long village lanes. Both old and newer buildings have an open courtyard in front, enclosed by a low mud wall or palm fence. Balochi customs and traditions are conducted according to codes imposed by tribal laws. Baloch men wear long shirts with long sleeves and loose pants. A pagh (turban) or a hat occasionally accompanies the dress on their heads. In contrast to Pakistan, the Iran Balochi dress code is more conservative in terms of length and material. Some Baloch women in Iran cover their faces with thick red wool (Burqah) and wear colorful scarves and chadors. Seeing their way of clothing alone is something you want to keep forever in your memories.

Turkmen Nomads

The Turkmen Nomads are an ethnic minority who speak Turkish with the Eastern Oghoz accent, which is the same dialect spoken in the Republic of Turkmenistan. They live in the Turkmen Sahra district in the Gorgan Province in the northern part of Iran. The area is a fertile plain near the Iranian border with the Republic of Turkmenistan. The district extends from the Atrak River in the north to the Caspian Sea in the west, the Quchan Mountains to the east, and the Gorgan River to the south. They have been living in Iran since 550 AD, but they began to form a tribe in 750 AD. They can be considered the descendants of Central Asian Turks who retained their ethnic identity during the Mongol invasion. The most important tribes of Turkmen living in Iran are the Kuklans and Yamotes. Turkmen’s men’s clothing consists of parts, such as costumes, trousers, hats, and shoes. Turkmen women’s clothing is simple to make, but they use a lot of decorations on it. They are masters in terms of carpet waving as well.

The Turkmen nomads

The Turkmen nomads

Shahsavan Nomads

Shahsavan nomads are one of the best-known and important tribes living in the northwestern provinces of East Azarbaijan and Ardebil. They begin their migration to their traditional summer camps on Mount Sabalan in early May. With the availability of the pastures and many mountain springs, the Shahsavan tribes graze their animals with ease. They earn a living by breeding livestock and grazing them on the pastures of mountain ranges in Ardabil. They live in dome-shaped tents stretching almost five meters, usually decorated with bells, colorful cloth, rugs, and cushions. Usually, men take responsibility for setting up tents and being shepherds. At the same time, women produce a variety of colorful and intricate flat-woven rugs, storage bags, blankets, and some knotted pile carpets.

Shahsavan nomads in Iran

Shahsavan nomads live in high dome-shaped tents stretching usually decorated by bells and colorful clothes.

Shahsavan men wear dark loose pants, collarless shirts, and jackets with a belt, while women wear colorful long skirts and dress with a headband with a scarf that twists around their heads. Their rich history, lifestyle, customs, and traditions attract many tourists annually.

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

Instagram photography in Iran

Best places for Instagram photography in Iran + Photos

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The dominance of social media in our lives has created new trends in every aspect of our life and traveling is not an exception. Instagram photography in Iran has become a strong reason for many travel lovers around the world to travel to this ancient land. Iran is full of stunning beauties that can enrich your Instagram feed, here in this article we would like to introduce some of these places letting you take the most incredible photos.

Shah Mosque, Isfahan

Having been built about 400 years ago by the command of Shah Abbas I Safavi, Shah mosque is the best example of Islamic architecture. Traveling to Iran, no tourists tend to miss this graceful mosque with its picturesque architecture.

The unique architectural feature of the Imam mosque is its acoustic characteristic. Speaking under the dome, you will be clearly heard by anyone standing inside. However, the variety of blue tilework here is also an amazing visual feature of this mosque which can make fascinating shots.

The entrance door is known for its perfect Muqarnas technique, which has been ornamented by the shrubs. The entrance is also one of those impressive photography spots.

Spending about a day visiting the whole Imam Square, you could take enough time for Instagram photography in Isfahan.

Imam Mosque- Instagram photography in Iran

Imam Mosque in Isfahan is famous for its outstanding architecture.

Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Shiraz

Nasir al-Mulk mosque or the “Pink Mosque” is one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Iran. You may have known Iran through the photos which have been taken in this mosque. The place is also known as “Iran Museum of Colors” due to the diverse patterns of light reflected through the colorful mirror works out of the window bringing about an irresistible photo spot.

The Pink tilework of the mosque is quite fascinating by themselves despite many other mosques in Iran and around the world enjoy blue tilework which is typical of Islamic architecture. The graceful place of worship is a frequently-visited attractions in Iran, many tourists spend days to take impressive photos as the unique architecture employing various colors is so eye-catching.

The best time to visit the place is from 9 to 11 in the morning.

Pink-Mosque - Shiraz-Iran

Nasir al-Molk also known as Pink mosque is well known for Instagram photography in Iran.

Golestan Palace, Tehran

On your travel to Iran, you would probably visit Golestan Palace which is a fine example of Persian art, history, and architecture. Located at the heart of the capital in Tehran, this great palace is carrying memories from Safavid to Pahlavi era, about 400 years of Iran’s history. Golestan palace is the most exceptional structure in the core of historic Tehran. Registered on UNESCO world heritage list in 2013, the palace is full of astonishing aesthetic features and is a well representative of Iranian fine art mixed with European architecture and technology and is definitely one of the most impressive places for Instagram photography in Iran.

Golestan palace - Instagram photography in Iran

Both the interior and exterior designs of Golestan Palace offer an amazing opportunities for Instagram photography in Iran.

Vank Cathedral, Isfahan

The whole district of Jolfa, where the migrated Armenians have been settled from 400 years ago, attracts many visitors every day. There are more than 13 churches in the districts, and Vank is the most famous one. Displaying a mix of Islamic and Armenian architecture, the interior walls of the building are covered with unique collections of beautiful frescos that display stories mainly from the holy bible. The display of frescos on tiles with glorious gold and blue frames has created a pleasant and lovely setting inside the church for photoplay lovers. Looking for amazing architectural beauty and interior design to take photos? Vank Cathedral is a not to be missed one!

Vank Cathedral- Isfahan-Iran

The interior walls ofVank Cathedral are covered with unique collections of paintings displaying stories mainly from the holy bible.

Eram Gardens, Shiraz

Searching for more places for Instagram photography in Iran? Then you are strongly recommended to visit Eram garden in Shiraz. Pesian gardens are famous for their outstanding features and Eram garden is a gem among them! Being a botanical garden has brought about variety of plants including tall cypress trees and gorgeous flowers to be grown up here which are quite impressive for Instagram photography, especially during spring, you can find many people in the garden walking and taking photos. Fall is also another amazing time here to nourish your Instagram page with colorful leaves on the ground.

You will regret not visiting this stunning garden, add it to your list right now!

Eram Garden- Instagram photography in Iran

Eram is an outstanding typical of Persian garden.

Iran Deserts

No matter where you come from, Iran enjoys the variety of deserts with diverse geological and aesthetic features you can never stop yourself appreciating them.

Iran deserts are mysterious landscapes; you could easily be attracted to the infinite golden sand dunes and get lost in the silence of the place. Talking about photography, every time of the day offers its own captivating beauty you would not like to miss; shining sunrise in the morning, direct sunlight on the golden dunes at noon, gorgeous sunset and countless luminous starts at night.

It is interesting to know that not all Iranian deserts looks the same; while Maranjab desert is famous for its pretty soft sand dunes, Shahdad or Kalout desert resembles much like the surface of Mars with their giant geological structures formed due to severe erosion.

For Instagram photography in Iran, the deserts are strongly recommended!

Persian Gulf, Qeshm & Hormoz Island

Surrounded by the endless blue waters of the Persian Gulf, biologically diverse mangrove forests, magnificent beaches the island is quite rich in terms of geotourism and ecotourism sites which are amazing spots for Instagram photography in Iran.

Visiting the star valley that pretty much resembles Hollywood cities is specially suggested around sunrise or sunset hours.

Visiting Hormoz island would probably be the integral part of your trip to Qeshm to take more fascinating landscape photos. The island is famous for its colorful sandy beaches. The geological features in Qeshm and Hormoz would absolutely satisfy your aesthetic taste and will make your Instagram page more eye-catching than ever.

It is interesting to know that both islands are free-trade zones, and as a foreign tourist you would not require visa for up to 14 days.

Chahkooh - Qeshm island

Chahkooh: An Amazing canyon in Qeshm.

The rooftops, Yazd

Yazd rarely resembles other cities you have visited before! The architectural features and the materials used in this city, that well match the climatic condition, have been stable for thousands of years. You will be truly fascinated by the extraordinary beauty and the atmosphere of this city.

The most recommended way to make the best of Yazd is visiting the rooftops. The mud-brick houses and labyrinth-like alleys in Yazd can normally be seen in movies, not the real life. That is why the typical architectural features of this city such as fascinating Badgirs (meaning wind catchers) acting as natural ventilators, the domes and the mud-brick light brown view of the rooftops are picked by travelers who are fond of photography.

Yazd- Instagram photography in Iran

The mud-brick houses and labyrinth-like alleys in Yazd can normally be seen in movies, not the real life.

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

Saffron

Iran lux souvenirs: Caviar, Saffron, turquoise + Photos

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Traveling to Iran and not bringing back souvenirs with you, is like being in Santa’s house, but not taking your present. Each region in Iran has particular handicrafts and souvenirs, but some are among the most special ones. As they are almost expensive, there might be some fake simples in stores. Stick with us to know how to recognize the originals!

Turquoise

The Turquoise stone is extracted almost around the world, but the most famous turquoise-made jewelry belongs to the range by the quality: Iran, Tibet, and the USA. Iran has remained the most important source of turquoise for at least 2000 years. The finest turquoise in Iran extracts from Neyshabur mines. the original Neyshabur turquoise has some qualities which are not found in other types. Here are some points to differentiate valuable turquoise stone from the fake ones.  The turquoise is categorized in different groups based on its color, the veins and the mines it’s extracted from.

Iranian Turquoise

Iran lux souvenirs – the original Neyshabur turquoise has some qualities which are not found in other types

Types of turquoise

  • Based on color:
    Turquoise has a very wide color spectrum. From the pale to the greenish-blue.  The stronger the blue shade is, the more valuable that’ll be.
  • Based on the mine which is extracted from:
    Respectively the mines of Neyshabur, Damghan, and Kerman produce the finest turquoise in Iran. To make sure that the turquoise you’re buying is original ask for identifications or check precisely the veins and color.
  • Based on veins:
    Some turquoises have veins, while others are perfectly homochromatic and blue with no streaks or fractures on their surface. Although neither of the mentioned types has superiority over another in terms of stone quality, the golden veins turquoises also called spider turquoises are usually more popular.


How to make sure the turquoise is original?

To differentiate the original Iranian turquoise from the fakes is totally difficult even for professionals. But there are some easy tips for shoppers to identify the counterfeit stone.

  • Turquoise stone generally turns Blue, chrome or vanadium green or in the range of pale blue to greenish-blue as well as yellowish-green, because of the existence of copper and iron in its Chemical Formula.
  • The original turquoise color should somehow be opaque. The exaggerated glossy stone arouses suspicion.
  • The High-quality turquoise is almost blue sky. Even though the original turquoise of Neyshabur might have some black veins or spots on it.
  • You can heat a needle or key on the lighter and then put it on the stone. If it smells like resin or plastic and leaves a deep trace on the turquoise, it absolutely is fake.
  • Scrape slightly the surface of turquoise with a sharp needle-shaped object. The original turquoise doesn’t get scratched this way and it can also scratch the glace no matter what its shape is.

How to take care of turquoise jewelry?

Being scratched, exposure to hot water, chemicals, and household detergents are the main hazards for the fine turquoise. Follow the instructions to take good care of your turquoise:

  • The turquoise should not be in contact with lotions, body oils or perfumes. Otherwise, it changes color.
  • Remove the turquoise jewelry while washing your hands. Detergents and chlorine-containing water damages turquoise.
  • Avoid polishing or contacting turquoise stone with greasy substances.

The most reliable way to buy turquoise is to buy it from Mashhad (Reza Bazar) and Neyshabur.

Iranian Caviar

The southern coast of the Caspian Sea, part of Iran, is a natural habitat for sturgeon species that has provided clean water, abundant nutrition, and an ideal environment for the growth of these species. About 90% of the natural caviar marketed in the world comes from the Caspian Sea. These fish, having a cartilaginous structure from prehistoric times, have remained the same, as many biologists call this fish a living fossil. There are 27 species of “sturgeon” in the world, 5 of them are found in the Caspian Sea :

  • The Beluga sturgeon
  • The Starry sturgeon
  • The  Russian sturgeon
  • The Persian sturgeon
  • The golden sturgeon
Iranian Caviar

Iran lux souvenirs – the Caspian Sea, part of Iran, is a natural habitat for sturgeon species

As we all know the Sturgeons are endangered and rare and it takes that Sturgeons a long time to develop roe. That’s why caviar has always been rare and expensive.  Despite being expensive, the Caviar has always been demanded because of its numerous properties. This makes the fraudsters think of producing artificial caviar. Read the following tips and be precise while buying this Iran souvenir:

  • The fake caviar beads are black and exaggerated translucent, while the real caviar beads are somehow grayish and opaque.
  • The real caviar beads are not perfectly round and have no adhesion, actually, they are more oval-shaped. But the fake caviar has a smooth, round and sticky surface. The raw material of such a product is paraffin which is not nutritionally valuable and is even detrimental to health. The paraffin made beads melt and stick together in case of being kept in a warmer place.
  • Counterfeit black caviar is usually dyed artificially and repels if left for a while.
  • Lower prices and large volumes of packages and amateur colorful package designs are the most obvious signs of a fake product.
  • The color of caviar is mostly in black, gray, white and gold, in Iran.
  • Note that if you buy a product in Iran and the package has Russian or Turkish notes on it, it is likely to be fake.

The most reliable Caviar brands in Iran are Raibod caviar, Talesh caviar, Mira’s caviar, and culture group. All mentioned companies have the possibility of online shopping.

Saffron

Almost 90 percent of the world’s saffron is produced in Iran, for 3000 years. This magic spice, with the enchanting odor, is called  “the red gold” in Iran. The best quality of the spice of joy grows in the northeast of Iran, Khorasan province. It is not so easy to differentiate the real and fake saffron, but keeping the followings in mind can give you a clue :

Iranian saffron

Iran lux souvenirs – The best quality of the spice of joy grows in the northeast of Iran, Khorasan province

  • Slide a small amount of the saffron, in a paper, if the oil is extracted from the saffron it’s fake, but being powdered with no trace of oil indicates the pureness of saffron.
  • Original saffron has a lower coloring speed than counterfeit saffron. Put some saffron in boiling water, and wait for 5 minutes if the color of the silks didn’t turn white, it’s original. If the silks turn white within 5 minutes, it absolutely is fake.
  • The normal silk of saffron shouldn’t be too glossy, being too glossy means it’s not pure.
  • The taste and odor of saffron is a sort of constant indicator itself. The taste of the original saffron is a bit bitter but it has a pleasant aroma.

The most reliable and famous saffron in Iran belongs to these companies: Keshmoon group, Bahraman Saffron and Saharkhiz.

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

Gahar Lake- Iran local attractions

5 Best Hidden gems in Iran (Photos, Info)

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What does Iran remind you of? Probably the Persepolis or the Pink Mosque. But this is not all about Iran, there are loads of hidden gems in Iran only known by the locals. This article introduces some of Iran local attractions you should not miss while traveling to Iran.

Alamut Castle

Have you ever been to an eagle’s nest? Alamut means eagle’s nest, due to its strategic position and design of the castle structure and walls, it is given this name. Located in the northwest of Qazvin province and close to Gazer Khan Village,  Alamut Castle was built by Hasan Sabah, the propagator of Shiite Ismaili, who chose this area for himself during the Seljuk period. The castle was taken by Mongolia Hulaku Khan in 654 AH and there are still the remains of it where visitors can pay a visit. In order to visit castle, you should go by van, it usually takes about four hours to get there, at some points the altitude is 2200 meters above the sea level. Alamut region has a mountainous winding road with a spectacular and picturesque landscape that you can enjoy relaxing in such pleasant weather.

alamut

Hidden gems in Iran: The impressive Alamut Castle

Raghe canyon

Rafsanjan is one of the important cities in Kerman province, located 100 km near Kerman. Raghe Canyon has situated a short distance from the city of Rafsanjan, which is a fascinating natural phenomenon in Iran also known as the “dead valley”. This valley is created by alluvial erosion caused by the Guivdary River, for several thousand years. The length of the valley is about 20 km and the depth is 70 meters, the opening of the valley is about 180 meters. Diversity of wildlife here is amazing due to being close to a protected area; eagle, partridge bird and gazelle are some of the wildlife species in the region. Another interstring point about Raghe is that it is in the middle of a path where two important natural historical attractions of Kerman (the village of Meymand and the Lut desert with its spectacular Kalouts (enormous and extraordinary geological figures emerged as a result of severe erosion) as the UNESCO World Heritages are located.

Rage canyon- Unknown local attractions in Iran

Hidden gems in Iran – Rage canyon: A natural attraction created by alluvial erosion caused by the Guivdary River.

Babak castel

Let’s visit Babak castle, a castle belonged to a national hero! Located 16 km southwest of Kaleybar, East Azerbaijan province, Babak Castle is also known as the Immortal Castle, was constructed on top of a mountain with 2600 meter height. Babak Khoramdin was an activist and a militant leader who fought bravely against Arab invaders. There are facilities on the east side of this two-story castle including some rooms and reservoirs, the roofs of reservoirs are chevron and rocking. There is a corridor right before the entrance gate of the castle which used to be under the control of guardians in the past. Having passed this corridor, you will face another entrance with irregular steps through which you can reach the castle. In the northwest side of the palace, there are some stairs which were used to make arriving at the castle more convenient, however, not much has remained today. It takes about two hours to get to Babak castle from Tabriz and the best time to visit is from April to September.

Babak Castle- Iran local attractions

Hidden gems in Iran – Babak Castle: A man-made fort built on top of a mountain in the northwest of Iran.

Gahar lake

In the heart of Zagros mountains, beside Oshtorankuh massif, in the province of Lorestan, there is a lake with gorgeous scenery attracting many visitors to the off-the-beaten-path region all around the year. It is 2360m above the sea level, 1700m long and 500m wide. The depth of the lake is 28m maximum. The region has been under good protection lately, so the environment, the flora, and fauna in the area have almost remained unharmed. Located among Oshtorankooh mountain chains which have a striking similarity to glacial lakes, Gahar lake has come into existence as a result of a landslide. The area is accessible through Dorood and Aligoodarz cities and the lake is feed from rills and springs flowing from the near highland. The thousands of visitors visit Gahar lake every year. The area is strongly recommended for staying overnight. You can easily set up your own tent and have a picnic while enjoying fishing in the lake. The best way to get there is a climb to Tpaleh Straight from Aligoudarz and then enjoy hiking to the lake.

Gahar Lake- Iran

Hidden gems in Iran – Gahar Lake, Lorestan: A natural attraction mostly visited by local people.

Izadkhast Castle

located on the ancient Silk Road between Shiraz and Isfahan, Izadkhast is not only a castle but also a whole complex consisting of Castle, a caravanserai, and a bridge dating back to Safavid period in Iran. Different architectural styles from different periods of Iran history including the Sassanid and Qajar periods have been incorporated into the castle which has brought about a valuable and unique construction and made it worth a visit.  Many travelers heading Isfahan or Shiraz enjoy a stop on the way and have a picnic lunch around the beautiful scenery of the construction.

Izadkhast Castle - Iran

Hidden gems in Iran: Izadkhast Castle

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

Maranjab desert

Maranjab Desert, Iran: Photos, Things to do, Location

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Varzaneh, Mesr, Chah Aroos, and the Maranjab Desert are the well- known Iran deserts, among which the Maranjab Desert is an astonishing one. The desert consists of so many cultural and historical monuments such as Shah Abbas Carvensarai, Dastkand Wells, Salt Lake, and huge sand dunes which makes it the best. The magnificent Maranjab Desert is located in the north of Aran va Bidgol County in Isfahan Province and is an inevitable part of top Iran tours. Besides, you can reach the astounding Matianabd Desert in a thirty-minute ride.

The stunning high dunes, being adjacent to a salt lake and a national park makes it a perfect destination for desert lovers. The vegetation is mostly covered with Haophyte plants like Tamarix trees, laoxylon trees, and Zygophyllum bushes. Wolf, fox sand, sand cat, lizard, snake, eagle, and hawk are the main animal coverage in this desert.

In case of traveling without a guide, don’t forget to download the latest version of the desert map and also carry both light and warm clothes with you since the weather is extremely either hot or cold.

Sand Dunes

In the eyecatching Maranjab desert, you can wander around the beautiful sand dunes for hours. The height of the sand dunes in some areas reaches to 70 meters. Besides, you can hike “Kolang Mountain ” that has a breathtaking view of the desert. We highly suggest you not miss walking barefoot on the sand dunes which relieves all the daily stresses and tensions. Notice that the temperature is so high in the middle of the day, so roam around there in the early morning or late afternoon.

Maranjab desert

Golden sand dunes are the most popular feature of the deserts.

Shah Abbas Carvensarai

The beautiful Shah Abbasi Caravanserai is a famous Iranian Caravanserai and is one of the features of Maranjab Desert. Being right on the Silk Road, this caravanserai is built under the command of Shah Abbas in the Safavid epoch as an accommodation for travelers passing the desert. This caravanserai used to function as a trading center with about 500 soldiers on top to watch over all the trading between China and Europe. A prominent feature of this is its Qanat which provided fresh cool water right in the heart of desert. These days, this caravanserai is a traditional guesthouse where you can enjoy living in the heart of an amazing desert of Iran. The square structure has an area of 3500 square meters and entails 29 rooms.

Maranjab desert

Shah Abass caravanserai was built under the command of Shah Abbas in the Safavid period for silk road travelers passing the desert.

Dastkand Wells

Dastkand Historical Well is within a five-kilometer distance to the east of Shah Abbas Carvensarai. It is a storage for freshwater. The interesting point about this well is the high quality of the water. Since there are different layers of sand in the well, the salt and other stuff are extracted from the water and it purifies it as well.

Salt Lake

In a nine- kilometer distance to Shah Abbas Carvensarai, you can see a unique natural attraction of Maranjab -Salt Lake-. You shouldn’t miss this lake while visiting the Maranjab Desert. The lake’s surface is 1800 square kilometers and is shaped like a triangle. The depth of the lake varies from 5 to 50 meters. Its water mainly pours from the Rud Shur River. Since the water is mostly evaporated and the lake is dried and covered with salt, it is called Salt Lake. Remarkably, you can find various Polygons made of salt crystals in this lake.

If you are lucky enough to visit the lake during September, October, and November, you will visit the awe-inspiring flamingoes migration.  You can catch there either from Aaran or the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai. After passing about 35 kilometers on Aran- Maranjab route or in a 10- kilometer distance from Shah Abbasi Carvensarai, you can see the beautiful Salt Lake.

Maranjab Desert - Salt lake

The lake in Maranjab is usually covered with sal due to the excessive water evaporation and the lake is often dried.

Sargardan Island

Also known as Wanderer Island, right across the desert, you can find this floating island in the salt. It is actually not an island surrounded by water but salt. The movements are quite bizarre which makes it like a moving island. Since there are only about one to two months of rain in this area, the moving island is only visible during that time. The rest of the year, the island is nothing but a salt marsh.

The remarkable point about Sargardan Island is that when you watch it from a far distance, the ends of the island just disappear on the horizon and the island looks like a ship moving in the ocean; that is where the name Sargardan (meaning Wanderer) comes from.

How to get to the Maranjab Desert?

For reaching the Maranjab Desert, you can take the route from Kashan to Aran va Bidgol, it is a 45- kilometer distance and takes one and half an hour to reach there.

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

isfahan music museum

Where to Hear Traditional Iranian Music? (photos, timing)

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Music as the next trending diet? Sounds easy enough! According to research, the combination of soft lighting and music leads people to consume less food and enjoy it more. Iran has very rich music in every genre. From years ago, many songs have found their way to people’s hearts and became an undeletable part of their lifetime. Iranian music has always played an important role in Iranian culture, with each region having its own specific style and sound. Iran has different styles of traditional and folk music. In every city and village from north to south and west to east, there is no single place without its own traditional music. There are different places to get involved in Traditional Iranian music during your cultural tour to Iran.

Zoorkhaneh and Varzeshe-Pahlavani

Have you listened to music in the old reservoir? Varzeshe-Pahlevani is an Iranian sport dating back to ancient Persia. It is a place that Iranian athletes train with live music playing with Zarb (Persian drum) and poems of Shahnameh, the brilliant masterpiece consists of epic poems written by Ferdowsi thousands of years ago. Zoorkhaneh has completely a different atmosphere you have experienced in sports clubs; it has its own music, exercises, and equipment. The exercises take place in the Gowd, which is a round or octagonal shape hole in the middle of the place where the athletes with colorful uniforms exercise and show their performance. Their performance will be managed by Morshed (the singer). Saheb Al-Zaman Zoorkhaneh is the best example of Zoorkhaneh in Iran, located in Amir Chakhmagh square in Yazd, the place was built five hundred years ago. The building consists of four floors and five Badgir (wind catcher structures, typical of architecture in Yazd).

You may visit Saheb Al-Zaman Zoorkhaneh from 5 am until 8 pm.

Zoorkhaneh-Iran

Traditional Iranian Music – Zoorkhane was a traditional system of athletics originally used to train warriors in ancient Iran. Today, it is a place to practice a kind of sport.

Vahdat Hall

Let’s visit the biggest opera house in Iran! Opened in the year 1967, the whole complex was called Rudaki Hall, then after the revolution, it was given the name of Vahdat Hall. This stage is designed specifically for band and orchestras performance. The main stage consists of three levels and the auditorium has 1,200 seats and two tiers of boxes and balconies. The end of this stage is dedicated to performing choirs and orchestral groups. There was a restoration in 2007, during which the hall was equipped with modern sound and lighting systems.

It is located in Hafez Avenue, Shahryar, Tehran, Iran.

Vahdat Hall-Tehran

Traditional Iranian Music – One of the highest prestige and ranking halls of Tehran; a lovely place to sit and see plays and concerts.

Tehran Music Museum

Visiting unique musical instruments in a romantic garden is quite fascinating! Iranians are well-known for performing various types of art. Covering an area of 3650 square meters in three different stories, Tehran Music Museum is one of the best museums representing this taste for art and is quite worth to be visited. If you are one of those interested in music, particularly Iranian folk music, the Tehran Music Museum would be a perfect place to get to know Persian music and different types of instruments. The museum has been opened to the public in 2009 and started by presenting more than 200 different Iranian instruments from all over this vast land which are well representative of Iranian rich culture and also Iranians good taste for this valuable art.

It is located in Mouze Street, Darbandi Street, Tajrish District, Tehran, Iran.

Opening hours: Every day except Saturday 9 am- 5 pm

Tehran music museum displays different Iranian instruments from all over the country.

Harandi Garden

Harandi garden, established by the Pahlavi dynasty is a beautiful and wonderful building of the recent period that gained its historical value since Reza shah Pahlavi stayed here in his last exile. Even the automobile used by Reza Shah during his short stay has been put on display at the site. The main building has got two floors, on the first floor there is an impressive array of musical instruments, and on the second-floor archaeological finds from sites near Jiroft and Shahdad. The Harandi Garden Museum was opened in 2002 with 250 musical instruments created by masters on display. The masters plan to purchase rare instruments in Kerman and other regions for the museum complex. If you are interested in music make sure to visit this museum. It is located in Kerman city quite close to the city center which is called Shariati Street.

Harandi Garden Museum: Iranian music

Traditional Iranian Music – The Harandi Garden Museum was opened in 2002 with 250 musical instruments created by masters on display

Isfahan Music Museum

Let’s play music in Half The World! The Isfahan music museum which has been operating for almost four years, it is the only music museum in Isfahan. There are different halls to show different types of national and local instruments. There are about three hundred instruments then you have a chance to see a live musical performance and also to try some instruments. It is located in Shahid Ghandi Street, Mehrdad Street, Towhid Miani Street, Isfahan, Iran.

Traditional Iranian Music – You will see a variety of ancient instruments and also how they are made in the Isfahan music museum.

Sharze Restaurant in Shiraz

Have you eaten Iranian cuisine while listening to music? If you want to get familiar with Iranian live music you can go to Sharze restaurant in Shiraz. You’ll help yourself with the salad bar, and you may experience some Iranian food and kebabs while listening to Iranian live music. The architecture reminds you traditional Iranian style. That is an interesting choice for those tourists who want to get acquainted with the real Iran used to be in the past. Furthermore, you may have vegetarian meals. It is located near Vakil Bazaar.

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

hitchhike

hitchhiking in Iran: Rules, Safety

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If hitchhikers had a prophet to describe them a utopia or something, that dreamland would definitely be Iran! where people are exceedingly hospitable and always ready to help others. Iranians believe that the guest is loved and respected by the Lord and anyone who’s far from home for any reason is considered as a guest.
That’s why hitchhiking in Iran is no big deal at all. Drivers are already willing to pick you up!

1- Check the “Hitchability” of your chosen path

The fact that Iran is quiet easy to hitch around, doesn’t deny the necessity of getting informed about the roads before leaving. The best way to make sure that there would be cars to pick you up is to ask locals through Couchsurfing. Make some local friends there and demand the necessary information.
Since the access to this app has been blocked, your connection will require a VPN. Try to find a good one before coming to Iran.
You can also check hitchwiki website and ask for Hitchhiking groups link in unbanned apps. In this group chats, people share the most recent news and information about traveling and roads in Iran.

2- Dress up!

It may sound a little superficial, but wearing light-colored clothes would help you a lot to be easier picked up. People, including also truck drivers, are more into those who are different from their routine.

3- Stand in the right pickup location

That would be wise to wait for pick where cars are going slow and can easily pull aside. Hitchhikers in Iran usually choose the roadside near the pay tolls.

4- Make sure you and the driver are on the same page

Even though people are increasingly ridesharing in Iran, there are still people who have no idea about this travel type. You’d better prepare a one-minute speech_ better in Persian_ to explain who you are, where you go and why are you doing that to the driver.

5- Check if it’s an unofficial taxi

Not all the taxis in Iran are yellow or have the roof sign. This might put the driver and the hitchhiker in a confusing situation. The solution is to learn the magic word in Persian and ask every driver if he or she is giving you the ride “Majjani”? which means “for free”.

6- Overcoming the language gap

As a hitchhiker, you should be able to communicate with people. Note that most Iranians, especially truck drivers, do not know English very well. you would better install some translate and communication applications such as google translate and tourist app. No worries If you are going to somewhere with no internet access, you can easily learn the most comment and frequent expressions in Persian before the trip and memorize or write them for yourself.

7- Have a little offer to make a good impression

Sharing some nuts and fruits or buying tea or coffee for your driver is not going to cost you much. But it means a lot to the driver. Iranian show their respect by offering insistently foods and beverages, this custom called “Taarof” is the sign of respect and doing that will make the driver wiling to pick the future travelers up too.

8- Preparing for the probable problems

– Risk of being dropped by a crazy or dangerous driver:
Trust your feelings sometimes, if you don’t feel secure with a driver, do not get in the car. And don’t hesitate to call the police whenever you felt the danger.

– You might linger for hours:
if you were stocked in the road just stay positive and wait until you’ll be sure you won’t arrive at your destination at night. If it turned out that you won’t arrive at a good time just install Iran taxi apps like snapp and tap30  take a reasonably priced taxi.

– Avoid hitchhiking at night
– Do not talk about the amount of money you carry.
– save the emergency numbers:

Safety issue

Don’t torture yourself with the fear of safety given to you by mass media! There is no war in Iran, the country is generally safe and living standards are at a good level. We share some travelers experiences of hitchhiking  in Iran:

“During my hitchhiking trip from the Netherlands to Vietnam, I’ve hitchhiked through Iran. I experienced Iran as one of the easiest countries to hitchhike”_Rutger, the hitchhiker from the Netherlands experience of hitchhiking in Iran

“Never before have I been to a country whereby the preconceptions of it are so far away from reality.” _Kim Berghout’s experience of hitchhiking in Iran

“Iran is the most inviting country in the world and its people the nicest I have ever met in my entire life.” _Josh the American hitchhiker experience of hitchhiking in Iran.

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