Travel to Iran would probably be like none of your previous trips, it is certainly a unique destination you never expect. There are loads of unique experiences waiting for you here, including cultural attractions, natural beauty, warm-hearted hospitable people, and tasty local foods.
Well, the next issue might be your safety. While you are searching is it safe to travel to Iran, it is never easy to distinguish between propaganda and genuine information. The two risk assessment institutions “International SOS” and “Risk control” evaluate Iran’s risk to travelers to be comparable to that of most European countries’.
Iran Doostan Tours Co. is a reliable Iran travel agency for incoming tours to Iran. No difference whether you are aiming to travel to Iran from Canada or travel to Iran from India, or any other country, we are honored to offer high-quality services in terms of diverse package tours. As a tour operator and travel agency in Iran, we provide all travel services including itineraries, visa, tour guides, transportation, accommodation, and whatever our tourists may need while traveling to Iran. If you are looking for some self-drive tours like travel to Iran by car, we are also ready to provide you with all you may need.
It is good to know that the Iran visa process is quite fast and convenient and the tourists can also apply for a visa online. However, if you intend to travel to Iran from the UK or US, your visa may take a bit longer to be issued.
If you have a call for an independent traveling to Iran, we wholeheartedly respect your decision; then all you may need to have except an Iran travel guide book and a map would be reading some tips for traveling to Iran in our Iran travel blog. For any travel to Iran experience, you are recommended to visit our guest blog and also our trip advisor page, it may be helpful. You may also like to spare some time watching interesting Iran tourism videos to whet your appetite for traveling to Iran.
Our professional colleagues are ready to help you if you have planned to travel to our country. Contact us via info@idt.ir. We will be back to you soon.

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Nowruz 1401

Nowruz 2024 (1403); Meaning, History, Date & Time

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A Celebration deeply connected to the history and culture of the Iranian people. Persian New Year 2024, known as Eid Nowruz 2024, is a festivity that welcomes spring and invites people to gather around and celebrate the New Year. Nowruz festival in Iran is considered to be the most important event and is universally celebrated among Persian and non-Persian communities all around the world. Nowruz’s importance goes beyond Iran’s borders. In this article, we will answer the question of what is Nowruz and explore the Persian New Year 2024 and its beauties.

Nowruz 2024

Nowruz 2024 is a universal celebration among different countries and marks the beginning of the New Year and spring. This beautiful celebration is known as the Nowruz festival in Iran and is celebrated around March 20 or 21st in the Gregorian calendar. Nowruz is a symbol and a fascinating festival deeply rooted in Iranian culture, making it the most important festivity of Persian people around the globe. Eid Nowruz 2024, or Persian New Year 2024, includes a variety of traditions that are representative of a symbol and meaning.

Most people refer to the Nowruz festival in Iran as a time of rebirth as spring sheds its beauty across the regions of Iran. The combination of Nowruz and spring displays various concepts, such as being happy, enjoying moments, and visiting loved ones. Persian New Year 2024 is not just a celebration but also a time for gathering and cherishing our lives and close relatives with our friends and family. It awakens a sense of being born again, making new attempts in the New Year, and living happily.

Nowruz Meaning

Nowruz, known as the Persian New Year, is the combination of two Persian words, which makes a new concept. The Persian word “Now” means “new” in the Persian language, and the word “ruz” means day. By combining these words a new word is created, which translates to “new day” or “new year” in English. The concept of Nowruz is all about becoming new to yourself and your surroundings, and it also conceptualizes rebirth and being open to new opportunities and chances. It also marks the arrival of spring, and its significance goes beyond traditions and borders.

Another literal and symbolic meaning of Nowruz is the triumph of light over darkness, marking the transition from the cold and dark winter months to the warmer and brighter days of spring and lovely views of flowers and happiness as nature turns green. Nowruz’s meaning can also be translated as “hope,” or optimism and new beginnings, and it celebrates life’s continuous cycle of life of a human being. Eid Nowruz 2024 is the ideal time for people to come together and embrace the positive energy of the New Year and the arrival of spring.

Watch our YouTube video on the IranDoostanTours Channel for an overview of what Nowruz is and how it’s celebrated.

What Is Nowruz?

Nowruz is one of the most ancient traditional festivals that celebrates the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. Nowruz, or its translation “new day,” represents the arrival of the New Year and spring in the Persian calendar. Including themes such as rebirth and hope, Nowruz is a time of joy and new opportunities.

The transition from winter to spring marked by Nowruz is also a symbol of the rejuvenation of nature and the starting of a new agricultural cycle. Nowruz is a time when people engage in their various customs, and each one has a unique concept, the traditions of the Nowruz are the most prominent traditions of this festival, such as the Haft Sin Table.

Nowruz History

Nowruz, as a term, is an ancient one that implies the unique culture of this day, which goes thousands of years to the past. The earliest reading from the book can be dated back to ancient Persia and before Islam. It is said to be one of the oldest celebrations in the region, which is in harmony with the religious rituals and beliefs of Zoroastrianism. The ancient Persian religion (Zoroastrianism) that dates back to the dawn of human history is the source of this festival.

Some sources also claim that Nowruz might have originated around 3,000 years ago in the territory known today as Persia or Iran. It is believed that King Jamshid, the ruler of the Persian Empire, began Nowruz, along with the solar calendar. Nowruz was at the very core of Zoroastrianism, and the sprawl of the Persian Empire and the Persian tradition led to the folklore diffusion of Nowruz in nearby areas and their people. After a long time, it has evolved into an event that is being observed by various ethnic groups and nations of the world.

Nowruz Festival in Iran

Nowruz is a major cultural celebration in Iran that carries great significance all over the country. Nowruz is regarded as the most important festival in Iranian culture and is observed by people of all ages and backgrounds across the country. In Iran, Nowruz traditions and the hype of the Nowruz normally begin a few weeks before New Year’s Day and last around two weeks. Nowruz includes a variety of traditions, and the hype of the Nowruz Festival in Iran can be felt two weeks before the Persian New Year 2024. People usually go shopping before the Nowruz. They usually buy new clothes and shoes and other things to embrace the concept of Nowruz.

Nowruz is Celebrated by Which Religion?

Nowruz doesn’t belong to any specific religion and is a universal celebration of spring and the Persian New Year. Nowruz has its roots in the ancient Zoroastrianism religion that has transcended religious boundaries and is celebrated by many communities and ethnic groups around the world. This cultural festival is known among Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and other nations.

nowruz in iran

Universal Celebration of Spring

Moreover, in Iran, Nowruz is celebrated by different people with different religious backgrounds, including Shia Muslims, Sunni Muslims, Christians, Jews, and others. Nowruz is the national holiday embraced as the Iranian identity and heritage. So, in general, Nowruz is not associated with any specific religion, thus, it is a universal cultural celebration.

Haft Sin

The Haft Sin table is a traditional tabletop arrangement that is an important part of the Nowruz traditions and the symbol of Nowruz. Haft Sin table is set up in households during the Nowruz period in Iran and other Persian-speaking regions. Interestingly, Haft Sin in Persian translates to “Seven S’s” and it showcases the seven symbolic items that start with the Persian letter “sin” (S). Each one of these items is a symbol and has become an integral part of the traditions of Nowruz. Haft Sin tables are so beautiful, and the decoration of the tables typically varies from one household to another household.

Nevertheless, Haft Sin tables usually include these items: Sabzeh (wheat, lentil, barley sprouts), Senjed (dried fruit of the oleaster tree), Samanu (a sweet pudding), Seer (garlic), Seeb (apple), Serkeh (vinegar), Somaq (sumac berries). Each item at the Haft Sin table is a symbol and representative of a concept. Haft Sin tables also include mirrors, goldfish, the holy Quran, and colored eggs.

Sabzeh: Rebirth and the renewal of nature.

Samanu: Affluence and fertility.

Senjed: Love and romance.

Seer: Medicine and good health.

Seeb: Beauty and health.

Serkeh: Age and patience.

Somaq: It symbolizes the color of sunrise and the victory of light over darkness.

Amu Nowruz or Pesian Santa?

Uncle Nowruz, or Amoo Nowruz, is one of the important characters in folklore and customs linked to the Nowruz festival. He is commonly depicted as a gentleman with a beard adorned in vibrant attire and carrying a cane or staff. Amu Nowruz serves as a companion and messenger of the Persian New Year, heralding joy, happiness, and blessings for the year. In stories and legends, he is portrayed as a kind-hearted figure who ushers in renewal and good fortune.

During the Nowruz period in Iran, children eagerly anticipate the arrival of Amu Nowruz. During his visits to homes, he is believed to bring treats and gifts. Children often recite poems. Sing songs to welcome him eagerly and express their enthusiasm for the approaching New Year. Amu Nowruz is deeply connected with the essence of Nowruz, embodying nature’s revival, the onset of springtime, and hopes for a year to come. His character encapsulates the jubilation and positivity that accompany this event.

Haji Firuz: The Jester of Nowruz

Haji Firuz is a folklore character related to Nowruz. He is known as the “Jester of Nowruz” or “Harbinger of Spring”. Haji Firuz brings happiness and joy to people during the period of Nowruz. Haji Firuz also entertains people with his lively and comedic performances. He aims to cheer up the spirits during Nowruz. Haji Firuz’s appearance includes a blackface mask, a red costume, and a hat with sometimes feathers. Haji Firuz can be seen in the streets as he sings, dances, and plays musical instruments to showcase the spirit of spring and joy.

Watch one of the best Nowruz Celebrations in Matinabad Eco-resort in Iran.

You can catch Haji Firuz in public squares and streets in the weeks before Nowruz. The presence of Haji Nowruz is the symbol of the New Year and is a time for being happy and joyous. In folklore, it is also believed that Haji Firuz brings good luck and blessings, and people usually offer him a gift or money as a gesture of appreciation. Haji Firuz and Amoo Nowruz are the most loved characters of the Persian New Year 2024.

Sizdah Bedar

Sizdah Bedar, sometimes referred to as Nature’s Day or Day Number Thirteen, is a pretty crucial tradition and celebration. It happens on the day numeral thirteen of the Persian New Year. Sizadh Bedar is also observed in Iran and other Persian-speaking places. Being a joyous day, outdoor activities and spending time in nature are what Sizdah Bedar is best known for. Sizdah Bedar Day is thought to offer good luck, keeping away any unlucky vibes associated with the number thirteen; a number that is not favorable in Persian culture.

On Sizdah Bedar Day, family and friends usually gather in parks, gardens, and country places for a picnic to enjoy the outdoors. They also participate in a lot of leisure activities such as game playing, kite flying, singing and dancing, socializing, etc. An interesting custom on Sizdah Bedar has to be the one where blades of grass are tied together, which symbolizes a good harvest and wealth year. These grass bundles, afterward, are tossed into flowing water, like rivers or streams, seen as a method of throwing away any bad vibes or negative stuff from the last year.

For young unmarried people, Sizdah Bedar is considered a particularly auspicious day for finding love and companionship. It is a common belief that going outdoors and spending time in nature on this day increases the chances of meeting a potential partner. The Sizdah Bedar is a joyous conclusion to Nowruz celebrations, marking the end of the two-week festivities, and is a special time for families to gather around and cherish their lives.

Nowruz Traditions

Nowruz traditions are the loveliest part of the Persian New Year. The central traditions of the Nowruz are known as Haft Sin table and Khoone Tekuni. Moreover, another tradition of the Nowruz is Chaharshanbe Suri, which happens on the last Wednesday before Nowruz. People usually light a bonfire and jump over it to keep away bad luck and attract good fortune. New Year’s Day feast is also a tradition that happens in Nowruz. Families gather around and enjoy a “Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi (herbed rice with fish).

sabzeh nowruz

Sabzeh Nowruz, Main Element of Haft Sin

During Nowruz, families also give Eidi (gifts or money) to other people as a symbol of blessing. Some families also read the Holy Quran and Hafez’s poems to exchange spiritual experiences in their houses and enjoy the rich heritage of their country and religion. Nowruz is also the best time for doing outdoor activities, especially during the 13th day of the Nowruz. On this day, families go outdoors and engage in cheerful activities. They also throw away their grass bundles into rivers and running waters to cast away bad luck. It is believed that this act can help find a good partner if you are single.

Things to Do during Nowruz

There are a lot of things you can do during Nowruz. First of all, you should do a “Khoone Tekooni,” which means that you should clean your house, organize it, and freshen up your house to symbolize a new start for the approaching year. You can then set up a Haft Sin table with items; you can even personalize the table and extra valuable things for yourself.

Most Iranian people buy a goldfish and put colored eggs and a mirror on the Haft Sin table. Moreover, Nowruz is the best time to visit your family and friends. Go to a friend’s house, spend some quality time with them, read poems, and listen to music. You can also make traditional Iranian food to boost your experience of Nowruz. The herbed rice with fish is the most popular one during this time.

Give Eidi to your friends and loved ones and exchange gifts with family and children. In addition, there are a lot of cities that host Nowruz festivals, which creates the opportunity to engage and attend them, especially if you are not familiar with the Nowruz traditions. Enjoying nature and going outdoors is also highly recommended, as nature gets very beautiful all around the region during the springtime. You can read poetries and the holy Quran if you want to have a spiritual experience. Finally, set up new goals for the New Year and take the time to look at your past year and cherish your moments. Let’s hope Nowruz 1403 will be one of the best years for all of us.

Eid Nowruz 2024 Facts

Nowruz is a wonderfully colorful festival and a culturally huge celebration. Rich with symbolism and traditions, Nowruz invokes a sense of renewal. These facts offer a snapshot into the captivating history and the mystic customs surrounding this truly old festival.

An Ancient Festival: Nowruz is a festival with roots stretching back over 3,000 years. The roots of this beautiful holiday are claimed to be founded in Ancient Persian and Zoroastrianism religions.

Beautiful and Universal: Nowruz gets hoorayed by diverse communities and cultures across the whole wide world, inclusive of Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, areas in India, Pakistan, and Iraq. It is a public holiday in many of these countries and is celebrated by various people.

nowruz 2024

Nowruz as a UNESCO Heritage of Iran

UNESCO Heritage: Nowruz was officially recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009 by UNESCO.

Spring Equinox: Nowruz rolls around on the spring equinox, typically on March 20th – 21st. Interestingly, it symbolizes the start of spring in astronomical science when the days are longer in the daytime and nights are shorter.

Thirteen-Day Celebration: Nowruz is a 13-day celebration, starting from the first day of the Persian calendar month of Farvardin and concluding with Sizdah Bedar, the thirteenth day.

Renewal: Strangely enough, Nowruz ties in deeply with the celebration of life’s renewal and the arrival of spring. It’s a time meant for appreciating the resurgence of life and fertility and embracing the beautiful nature around us.

Haft Sin Table: The Haft Sin table, decorated with seven symbolic items, is a key feature of Nowruz. The specific items and decorations on the table vary, sometimes based on regional and personal likings.

Sprouting Sabzeh: Growing Sabzeh, like wheat, lentil, or barley sprouts on the Haft Sin table is common. It symbolizes rebirth and hope. It represents the anticipation for a prosperous year ahead.

Chaharshanbe Suri: Chaharshanbe Suru is the festival of fire, which is another tradition of Nowruz about being happy and fearless. On the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, People light bonfires and jump over them to keep away negativity and be fearless.

Sizdah Bedar: Sizdah Bedar in Nowruz 2024 is the day when people spend their time outdoors and enjoy nature. They play games and get close with their families to be unified and bring good luck for themselves in the upcoming months of the New Year.

Nowruz 2024 Date & Time

Being one of the most important holidays, Nowruz 2024 begins on Wednesday morning this year on March 20 and concludes on Thursday, March 21. Nowruz (also known as the “March Equinox”) occurs on the first day of spring every year and is celebrated worldwide by Persian and non-Persian communities.

nowruz 1403

Persian New Year Photos

For most Iranian people, the Nowruz 2024 date and time is an important moment, and they gather with their families and friends to give their prayers to god, read the holy Quran, and wish a greater and better new year for themselves and their loved ones.

Wed, Mar 20, 2024, 4:06 AM

Central European Time

In What Countries Nowruz Is Celebrated?

Nowruz is celebrated in various countries in Central Asia and has influenced a lot of cultures and countries in the region, making it one of the most significant holidays in the whole world. When it comes to celebrating Nowruz, since Nowruz originated from Zoroastrianism, Iran is at the top of the list. Afghanistan and Tajikistan are also places where Nowruz is celebrated. Traditional dances and the preparation of special meals are the characteristics of this holiday in these countries.

In Azerbaijan, Nowruz is known as “Novruz Bayramı,” and the people of Azerbaijan also celebrate this day. Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Iraq, and Pakistan are also other neighbors of Iran that Nowruz has influenced their culture and is celebrated every year. An interesting fact about Nowruz is that it is also observed by certain communities in India. So, Nowruz is well-known in parts of Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East.

Final Words

The beginning of the New Year in the Persian calendar, known as the Nowruz festival in Iran, is the most important event for Iranian people. Nowruz is deeply rooted in Zoroastrianism and is celebrated around March 21st, marking the beginning of spring and bringing friends and families together for gift-giving, feasting, and traditions like cleaning one’s house and setting up a “Haft Sim table”.

The Persian New Year 2024 is a 13-day celebration, and its beauties and cultural characteristics go beyond borders. If you want to visit Iran, don’t forget to check out this lovely experience (Nowruz 2024) and watch its beauty from a closer perspective.

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

Damavand Mountain

Iran Mountains for Climbing and Skiing

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Climbing mountains may not appear as simple as most people think, but doing so will undoubtedly enrich your life. Adventurers or mountain climbers do not need reasons to climb mountains. We’ve got what you’re looking for if you’re looking for your next exciting mountain hike! Iran Climbing Tours, Iran Ski Tours, and Iran cycling tours are all available here at Iran Adventure Tours. Here are some of the most spectacular mountains in Iran that are excellent for those with a heightened sense of adventure.

Mount Damavand

A mountain lover’s paradise, Damavand is loved by many. Damavand is the highest peak in the Middle East. This majestic volcano is commonly referred to as “the roof of Iran” because it elevates 5,671 meters. This beautiful mountain in the Alborz range is more than just natural beauty. In Persian mythology, this glorious mountain has played a prominent role since ancient times and is one of the symbols of Iran. Damavand is also one of the most impressive summits in Iran due to its unique nature and different shelters and facilities. Climbing mount Damavand requires average technical skill levels, which makes Damavand an excellent choice. The following three routes lead to Damavand’s summit: from the south, north, and northeastern sides.

Sabalan Mountain Climbing

At 4,811 meters in height, Mount Sabalan is Iran’s second-highest mountain, situated in the Alborz Mountain range. The Soltan Peak, Sabalan’s highest peak, features a beautiful lake, making it a popular hiking and climbing spot for professionals. As well as being a fabulous trekking destination, Sabalan’s scenic nature and its hot springs make it an ideal place for other sports and activities. In order to ascend Sabalan, you can choose one of the three routes: the southern route, the western route, or the northeastern route. A majority of people prefer to climb Mount Sabalan via the northeast route. During winter in Iran, you can also enjoy Iran Ski Tours on this gorgeous mountain.

Alam Kuh

Located in the Kelardasht district in Mazandaran province, Alam Kuh stands high in the Alborz mountain range. Like Damavand, this mountain is a popular natural attraction among hikers and mountain climbers. It is Iran’s third-highest mountain at 4,650 meters. Alam Kuh is considered one of Iran’s most challenging summits due to its granite walls and technical routes. So, if you are looking for exciting Iran Adventure Tours, this is the place. It is a suitable trekking and climbing destination for mountaineers of all abilities and tastes because of the variety of routes on Alam Kuh. In Alam Kuh, you can choose between two kinds of ascent trails: trekking and rock climbing trails. For rock climbers, high walls or flank routes are the best options. Iran Mountains trekkers can choose between the Hesarchal and Siahsang routes.

Top Iran mountains

Iran offers outstanding mountain climbing opportunities for adventure lovers.

Mount Sahand

With a height of 3,707 meters, Sahand is one of the most remarkable volcanoes in East Azerbaijan With a height of 3,707 meters, Sahand is one of the most remarkable volcanoes in East Azerbaijan Province. Sahand Mountain is known as the third of the great volcanoes of Northwestern Iran. In addition to being a popular mountain climbing destination, the region is also excellent for skiing and snowboarding. The Sahand Ski Resort is located about 40 kilometers northwest of Tabriz city on the north slope of Sahand Mountain. An unforgettable ski experience awaits you here, so enjoy skiing in Iran to the fullest.

Mount Bisotun

A high mountain in the Zagros mountain range in western Iran’s Kermanshah Province is Bisotun, with a peak height of 2760 meters. Here is one of the most challenging routes for rock climbers worldwide. The world heritage site and historical attraction of Bisotun make it more than just a climbing destination. There are several inscriptions and carved monuments at Bisotun, including the most famous and first known Iranian inscription. There have been many epic Persian literary works and poems mentioning this precious mountain.

Zard Kuh

In summer, Bakhtiari nomads camp in the Zard Kuh Mountains, surrounded by several peaks, rare plants, and flowing springs. Zard Kuh is a stunning mountain you do not want to miss. Zard Kuh Mountains are part of the Zagros Mountains in southwest Iran, making them one of the most scenic mountains in the country. Located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, Kuhrang is the best place from which to summit this top Iran mountain. It is challenging to climb in the winter because there are deep valleys and high walls west of the mountains. During the winter, snow skiing is another popular activity in the mountains, which you can experience with our Iran Ski Tours.

Iran mountains

Iran as a country with the largest mountain ranges has great destinations for adventurers.

Hezar Mountain Climbing

Hezar (or Hazaran) Mountain, with a height of 4510 meters, a stunning mountain in southern Iran, is the highest summit in Kerman Province. This summit has the lowest gravity in Iran due to its distance from the center of the Earth. The plant diversity of Hezar has given it the name Hazaran, meaning thousands, as you can find thousands of various plants. Depending on your professional and physical capacity, summiting Hezar Mountain can be an intense 1-day or a one and a half-day plan. There are different routes to reach Hezar peak: Mirshadi, Babbini, Ordikan, Babzangi, and finally Zarrud, which is the easiest and most popular route, which is also equipped with a shelter. Even in winter, Hezar can be summited, but you should keep in mind that it is very snowy and the weather can be unpredictable.

Dena Mountains

There are many hiking trails in Dena Mountain, and plenty of water and unique vegetation make it an ideal multiday trekking destination in southern Iran. This 80-kilometer-long mountain range lies in the heart of the Zagros Mountains. In addition to the central and northwestern mountain ranges, the southeastern and bypath ranges are also part of the Dena Mountain Range. The highest point of Dena, Ghash Mastan (4300m), is in the central region of the mountain range. It is essential to have a good understanding of the routes and a high ability to handle multiday treks to climb several peaks. Another attraction of Dena is the Wildlife and Plant Life in the Mountains, the reason for its status as a National Park.

Dena mountain

Damavand is a great mountain for climbing and hiking.

Shirkooh

Like a sleeping lion in the middle of a vast desert, Shirkooh stands alone at a height of 4075 meters in Yazd province. This highest mountain in Yazd province is a part of the Zagros Mountains. The Shirkooh summit is a good option if you are looking for an easy or average ascent on Iran Climbing Tours. Shirkooh can be summited in one or two days and has shelters near the peak. A permanent spring ensures your access to water along the route as well. Although Shirkooh can be submitted at any time, spring and fall are the best times of year to submit it. Shirkooh has a snowy winter and a relatively hot summer. Although Shirkooh is not as high as other winter ascent destinations in Iran, it is an excellent choice for high-altitude climbs.

Taftan Mountain Climbing

Taftan is a volcanic mountain in southeast Iran, in Sistan and Baluchistan Province. Taftan generally has four peaks and three craters. Its highest summit, Chehel Tan (4042m), has an active crater that emits sulfur vapors. Taftan can be ascended via the shelter route on the western face. It can be reached from Torshab Village on the east, Tamin Village on the north, and Sangan and Khanjak village crossings on the north. Mountaineers often choose the western face route, which also includes a shelter. There is no wrong time to conquer Taftan, but spring and fall are the most ideal seasons. Just keep in mind ascents during the winter are extremely challenging because of strong cold winds.

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

Iranian festival

Top 7 Festivals of Matinabad Eco-camp

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There is no better place than Matinabad if you are looking for a fascinating place to stay in the countryside of Isfahan in central Iran. A warm and lovely residence located in the Rural District of Khaledabad in the Isfahan Province with a population of approximately 500 people. Matinabad Eco-camp not only has many exciting activities available for tourists and natives but there are also many festivals that take place in Matinabad to keep everyone entertained. Here are the most exciting festivals held in Matinabad that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Nowruz Festival

The Persian New Year is known as Nowruz, which translates to A new day. The entire country is full of colorful flowers and cheers, and Matinabad is no exception. The locals of Matinabad believe that light shall always defeat darkness. Thus, the villagers acknowledge the festival of Light and Mirror when the first Thursday of the year arrives. They turn on all the lights in the house with mirrors everywhere for two days straight. By that, they resemble an illuminated holy place. Join us at this event and treat yourself to our natural and organic herbal teas and freshly picked products. We will give you the experience of heaven in the middle of the desert by making a magical drink of rosewater and peppermint extract New Year’s edition.

Rose Water Festival (Golab Giri)

During spring, Damask roses grow on the fields of the village’s verdant farms. A perfect time to extract rose water from these scented flowers. Therefore, the locals of Matinabad regard this time of the year as a festive season. Wooden baskets are often given to children to help their parents gather fragrant flowers, making it a fun activity for them to enjoy. During this time, you have an opportunity to experience the creation of rose water extract harvested by your own hands in the Matinabad eco-camp. Drinking the best quality and fresh rose water, sweetbrier extract, peppermint extract, and Sisymbrium irio syrup accompanied by live traditional music at the camp will make your evening fresh and aromatic like the roses from our garden. Following that, the locals distribute the food to the lovely guests of Matinabad to enjoy.

Ab Dough Khiar

Ab Dough Khiar is a traditional Persian meal mostly served during summer. Iranians cherish the opportunity to have this tasty meal on hot summer days. It contains herbs, walnuts, yogurt, and sometimes raisins. Ice cubes are added to the mix to create a cold sensation in the body during this hot season. Throughout the summer, locals in Matinabad serve the most delicious Ab Dough Khiar you will ever taste. To remain loyal to the values of establishing Matinabad eco-camp, dedicated to improving the quality of life of local people and preserving valuable occupations, they grow plants and flowers and extract them using the skills of the local farmers and labor. Therefore, you can rest assured that all the products used in this delicious meal are organic. So, If you’re visiting Matinabad during summer, make sure you get a taste of this luscious Persian meal.

Yalda Night in Matinabad

The most widely cherished festival in Iran is Yalda Night or Chelleh Night. The longest and the darkest night of the year, when Iranian families sit around a place and stay up till dawn. Watermelons, pomegranates, persimmons, sweets, and nuts are the specific items that represent the glory of this tradition. Each of the items has its meaning. For instance, the pomegranate is a symbol of birth, and its bright red seeds symbolize the glow of life. Guests are always welcome in Matinabad during Yalda night. The restaurant will serve a meal different from the daily special to leave you a more vivid memory of the event. Locals will play traditional instruments and recite poems by Hafez for the visitors to treasure this memorable night.

Kadoo Halvayi (Pumpkin Festival)

Matinabad organic farms supply a variety of crops such as watermelons, pumpkins, eggplants, pomegranates, tomatoes, and many more. Autumn is known as the pumpkin season, and by the time fall arrives, the organic pumpkins of Matinabad Organic Farm are harvested for countless purposes. During this most wonderful time of year, the locals make pumpkin jam, stew, pottage, and tasty desserts like cookies and cakes to welcome visitors. As part of the Thanksgiving festival, pumpkins will also be used as decorations to bring light and joy to the hearts.

Chaharshanbe Suri

The last Wednesday (Chaharshanbe Suri) is celebrated all over Iran before the New Year approaches. When Iranians leap over a bonfire and sing a traditional song. People believe that the red color of fire symbolizes health. Iranians perform a variety of traditions on this night. In Matinabad, the locals dance and whirl with a harmonious sound produced by Sorna (an ancient woodwind instrument) and Zarb (a goblet drum). Guests from Iranian cities and foreigners gather around to celebrate this renowned festival. During this night, a very popular Persian stew, Ash Reshteh, is served, making the night even more memorable.

Asemane Shab in Matinabad

The night sky over Matinabad is full of twinkling stars and galaxies, thanks to being located near the desert. It’s a magnificent moment for the visitors to observe the night sky. Astrophotographers often visit this special place to capture the Milky Way and the stars via their telescopes. It is fascinating to look at the night sky with a telescope and observe millions of stars, planets, and galaxies. With the help of our astronomers, you will learn more about the incredible planets in the sky. Gathering around a bonfire under a starry night is a special moment you can experience in Matinabad.

Matinabad

The night sky over Matinabad is full of twinkling stars and galaxies.

The House of Strength

Zoorkhaneh: The House of Strength (workout, music & more)

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Zoorkhaneh is the house of strength, not only for the body but also for the soul and spirit. An ancient traditional Iranian sports club, dating back to the Zoroastrianism and Mithraism era (almost 700 years ago) where the athletes train rigorously with live music playing with Zarb (Persian drum) and poems of Shahnameh, the masterpiece epic book of Ferdowsi (ancient Iranian poet).

Zoorkhaneh Origin

As claimed by some people, the idea of zoorkhaneh began during the Arab invasion of Persia in the 7th century and led to the establishment of a secret society to liberate Persia. Young Persian males gathered in a place they called the zoorkhaneh and performed a ritual that included strenuous physical activities, weight lifting, and martial arts. Pahlevani and zourkhaneh rituals is the name inscribed by UNESCO for varzesh-e pahlavāni.

In the beginning, the zoorkhaneh was organized for political reasons; however, in the modern day, it is a gymnasium, sporting arena, and meeting house for male Iranian athletes. Zoorkhaneh Athletes were considered nobles in terms of the ranking after the reverends. And those who knew the ways of combat were highly respected by the public. These gymnasiums can be found in almost every Iranian city or town and even in neighboring countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Azerbaijan.

Zoorkhaneh in Iran

In the Iranian Culture, Zoorkhaneh is a sacred place where physical activity is combined with art and literature. Having a strong morality, devotion, and honorary manner is as important as having a strong body. The ritual is taken place in a building shaped as a dome with an octagonal recessed arena (Gowd) surrounded by terraced seats. The entrance door is short therefore when entering, everyone must bow their head to respect this place and people.

“Persian meels” are huge wooden clubs used for physical preparation for fights.

The Architecture of Zoorkhaneh

The interior structure of the house is built like the classical architecture of Persia with Aina-Kari (covering the wall with a mosaic of mirror-glass) as well as the portrait of Ali (the son-in-law of Prophet Mohammed) hanging on the wall. Before and after every session, the members pray upon Ali as a memory of him. Athletes (Bastankars) wear a special attire representing the ancient archeological Persian nobles and warriors, a tight leather breech without shirts.

The Traditional Music

Zoorkhaneh has its music, exercises, and equipment. An elder man, Morshed, or the master (Pishkesvat) who leads the ritual chants verses from the Shahnameh, evokes a sense of heroism and exhilaration within the members. With the sound of drumbeats and the clanging of a bell, the beautiful ritual commences.

Etiquette of Zoorkhane

Athletes of ten to twenty men stand around the arena (Gowd) to warm up and later perform exercises using metal shields (sang), chains that are simple iron weights (kabbadeh), and wooden Persian mils, followed by a Sufi-like whirling and juggling to build strength and stamina. The members move together with the drum beats of a goblet drum called Zarb.

The Morshed sits above the arena, a place called (sardam), and directs the pace of the movements by the rhythms played on the traditional drum. Push-ups are carried out by the members before wrestling. They rub oil over their bodies to slip out of their opponent’s clutches without difficulty.

Zoorkhaneh

Athletes of ten to twenty men stand around the arena to warm up and later perform exercises.

These exercises are very similar to eastern martial arts and are aimed to aid meditation and contemplation. Participants may be from different social backgrounds, but during the performance, the students are all taught about ethical values and courteousness under the leadership of the Morshed. Religion plays a significant role in this sacred place since the athletes who possess the ‘Seyed’ or ‘Sadat’ titles (their family tree roots back to the prophet of Islam) hold high esteem.

The Members Rank

In a Zoorkhaneh, the members progress and are ranked up by the guidance of the Morshed to the highest grade, known as the champion or Phalavan, who usually stands in the center and conducts this traditional performance. The Pahlavan is obligated to help the weak, praise his Lord and do good deeds, for he is regarded as a spiritual adept.

As mentioned, the members have different ranks based on their experience. The first grade begins after a year of participation in the House. The second grade is after three years of part taking, and the Morshed will recite a divine blessing (Salawat), meaning “peace be upon Him.” a salutation to Prophet Mohammed.

The members have different ranks based on their experience.

 

Within six years of participation, when the athlete is around the age of 18, he will receive the third grade. Upon entering the arena, the Morshed will say a Salawat for the student. Fourth-grade participants will receive their rank in 12 years of experience. The fifth is given to them after 15 years and the sixth after 18 years of involvement.

The Morshed will play the Zarb (drum) When the sixth-grade student steps inside the arena. The seventh-grade students receive the rank in 24 years. The Morshed will ring the bell while the student does the Sufi-whirling. Those who were present for 32 years will get the eighth-grade rank. The bell will cling every time this student steps in or out of the pit.

Finally, the ninth grade is the last rank where the student will attain the Pahlavan title after 45 years of practicing these unique physical exercises. This title is very rare, and only a few men possess such a high honorable rank.

Pahlevani Wrestling

An annual competition takes place in Iran known as the Pahlevani Wrestling, and the champion will earn a Bazouband which is an armband. Traditionally, the king gave the armband to the winner, but now the president of Iran has to award it. Gholamreza Takhti, one of the most popular Phalevans, is also known as Jahan Pahlevan, meaning world champion. He is a three times winner and an Olympic Gold medalist.

Zoorkhaneh Houses

Many Zoorkhaneh Houses are active in use all around the country. Here are some of the best ones to visit. Pahlavan Pour in Tehran, one of the oldest Zoorkhaneh in the capital, was established almost 100 years ago. Ali Mirza, located in Hamadan, is another great option to visit, which was initiated 200 years ago. Poolad in Shiraz was once a cistern and is now an old Zoorkhaneh from 160 years ago. An additional one is situated in Tehran named Shir, which is also from around 100 years ago.

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

Mirza ghasemi

Most Popular Northern Dishes of Iran

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Iranian cuisine is very diverse; however, the northern dishes of Iran are exceptional for tourists. The cuisine varies from region to region. In Mazandaran province, people are fonder of seafood and spices for it is alongside the Caspian Sea, a coastal area where locals can effortlessly catch fish, and in Gilan Province, a mountainous region, indigenous herbs, and veggies are used for the main course. Here are some delicious northern dishes you should try while visiting mesmerizing places in the northern region of Iran!

Naz Khatoon

Naz Khatoon is an original and fancy Persian side dish famous in the Mazandaran Province. It is a Torshi mixture made with special herbs, potatoes, and eggplants. A simple recipe that is excellent for those who enjoy sour foods. Naz Khatun contains garlic, grated onions, verjuice, condiments, cinnamon, vegetable oil, barbequed eggplants, and pomegranate paste for an additional sourness. Dried mint, angelica, basil, and fresh coriander are crushed and combined with the above ingredients to create an unforgettable taste. The mouth-watering Torshi is garnished with chopped or pickled carrots and garden-fresh coriander. The side dish is mainly accompanied by Adas Polo “rice and lentils” or Shami kebab, a mixture of beef and nuts.

Baghali Ghatogh

Baghali Ghatogh is a delicious stew made with dill, kidney beans, and eggs. The Baghali Ghatogh is also served with sticky rice known as kateh in Persian, which is very common in the Northern dishes. Fresh Garlic and seasoning such as pepper, salt, and turmeric are added to the stew for a flavorful taste. The recipe for the stew is distinct between the two Northern Provinces. In Mazandaran, Baghali Ghatogh is made with kidney beans, and in Gilan, it is cooked with cranberry beans. Nonetheless, the Gilani recipe is mostly dished out in late summer, for the beans are supplied during this month.

Baghali Ghatogh

Baghali Ghatogh is a delicious stew made with dill, kidney beans, and eggs.

 

Aghouze Messeama

If you’re looking for an extraordinary dish, make sure to try Aghouze Messeama, one of the northern dishes of Iran. Aghouze Messeama is a popular and healthy meal in Gilan Province, made with duck, pomegranate paste, and walnuts. Pomegranate seeds and walnuts are ground and combined with the mixture of duck and pomegranate paste, followed by salt, pepper, sugar, turmeric, fried onions, and butter or oil. The stew mixture is served with rice or torshi, which is simply pickled vegetables commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisines as a side dish. Fried Eggplants are set out by the plate as well for extra relish. This dish is also made with goose instead of duck, depending on the different regions.

Mirza Ghassemi

Mirza Ghassemi is named after Mohammed Qasim Khan, the Northern governor of Rasht, who was the first to invent this famous traditional savory in the 19th Century. Mirza Ghassemi is served as both an appetizer and the main dish. It is a dip cooked with grilled eggplant, tomatoes, spices, and eggs and helped with rice or bread. The majority of provinces enjoy the dish with freshly baked Persian bread. Garlic, salt, pepper, oil, or butter is mixed with the three main ingredients to make the delicious roasted eggplant dish. In some areas, grilled zucchini is used instead of eggplants to make Kadoo Ghassemi. ‘Kadoo’ is the Persian word for Zucchini. The dish can be decorated with basil, mint, or other fragrant herbs, as well as onions or sliced red radish.

Mirza Ghasemi

Mirza Ghasemi is a vegetarian meal that is very tasty and delicious.

Sirabij

Sirabij stew is a well-liked meal cooked in Gilan Province, famous for its strong garlic fragrance. The word ‘sir’ stands for garlic in Persian, referring to the main ingredient of Sirabij stew. Garlic cloves and leaves are what make this stew aromatized. It is a simple and easy dish to make, requiring boiled eggs, salt, pepper, turmeric, and oil with the cloves prepared and then fried together. Gilani women cook Sirabij with Gija Oil, also known as Gijavash, a local vegetable oil perfect for this unique stew. Sirabij is served with bread or rice, along with fish or chicken and yogurt.

Spinach Maerji

One of the most common leafy green vegetables in Northern cuisine is Spinach. A healthy and nutritious plant, recommended by many health experts. Spinach Maerji is the perfect meal for individuals with low iron and a weak immune system. Made with lentils, garlic cloves, sour pomegranate paste, spice, turmeric, salt and pepper, and animal fat or butter. The dish is accompanied by bread or kateh (sticky rice) and garnished with herbs such as basil or mint. Mazandaran province is where Spinach Maerji was first invented and is usually made by the locals as a flavorsome meal. All these delicious northern dishes of Iran will give an unforgettable taste to your trip!

 

Spinach Maerji

Spinach Maerji was first invented in Mazandaran Province.

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

Xavi in Iran

Iran Passport Stamp, the Reason for Xavi’s Absence in Barcelona’s America Tour

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Xavi cannot accompany his team on the trip to Miami due to his passport problem, the Iran passport stamp. His club has informed Xavi that America did not give him a visa due to his numerous trips to Iran. As a player or a coach, Xavi traveled to Iran many times in the past years. He was last in Iran on May 19, 2019. According to the laws of the United States, those who have entered Iran need a special permit to enter the United States.

 

In order to avoid such inconvenience when traveling to the United States, you have two options. Firstly, you can simply ask for your Iran visa to be issued on paper. Secondly, you can skip your Iran passport stamp. Foreigners’ passports will not be stamped in Iran to ease entry rules and to counter the United States’ bilateral sanctions against Iran. The resumption of sanctions against Iran began in May when the US withdrew from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action known as the Iran nuclear agreement. One of the consequences of Trump’s sanctions against Iran is that those who travel to Iran might face some difficulties afterward. To reduce tourists’ concerns about US sanctions, the Iranian vice president announced that foreigners’ passports would not be stamped in Iran.

Therefore, foreign tourists will have the opportunity to travel to Iran, enjoy the company of its hospitable people, visit its ancient cultural attractions, and have no problem traveling to the United States. As an Iranian tour operator with 30 years of experience operating incoming tours to Iran, we have been honored to welcome many tourists to Iran in the past years. We like to shed light on the issue in this article so that you can make your call to travel to Iran and other countries unafraid.

Omidvar Brothers

Omidvar Brothers: Story, Museum, Book, Photos & more

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Imagine traveling the world on merely a bike and 90$ to spend. Only a brave soul could embark on a 10-year journey across the globe. Believe it or not, that is what the Omidvar brothers did back in 1954. Throwing their film-making gear on their bikes, they hit the road to see the most outlying people they could encounter. An extraordinary documentary of a vanished world was made of these people, cultures, and even countries that no longer exist.

Omidvar Brothers

Abdollah and Issa Omidvar, born after the Second World War, lived in the suburbs of Tehran. They have always had a taste for traveling and probing, inspired by the stories their father used to tell on the long nights of the winter. Their dream was to visit all the hidden corners of the world. In Iran, they were part of a mountaineering club with which they climbed Mount Damavand, the highest volcano in Asia. The Omidvars were not seasoned travelers, professional filmmakers, or elite members. They were two men in their early 20s who wanted to learn more about the world.

Why Traveling with Bike?

Issa participated in a speed and endurance race that ranged from Karaj to Tehran and won second place. Sometime later, he finished fourth among all the participants in a speed cycling race. Another reason that caused more motivation to travel by bicycle was the French cyclist Lionel Brans, who planned to go from Paris to Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, on a bike. He was passing through Tehran on the way and was welcomed by the mountaineers of the club. This meeting and acquaintance made Issa’s determination to travel by bicycle more.

Preparing for adventure

Issa decided to go on a motorbike trip to the west. He crossed the border of Iran to travel to Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. This four-month journey was exhausting with graveled and dangerous roads. Yet, he was welcomed by the people and finished his 4-month adventure. Meanwhile, his brother Abdollah was exploring southern Iran by bicycle with his friend. The Omidvars’ determination and gentle approach – outlined in their motto attached to their bikes, “All different, all relative” – was the perfect motive for their journey.

 

Omivar BRothers

Omidvar brothers on their journey with their bikes

 

Start of an Endless Journey

The first journey of the Omidvar brothers took seven years, passing through Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India and traveling to Tibet, Southeast Asia, and Australia. After crossing the Pacific Ocean, they traveled to Alaska, North America, and South America. Finally, they arrived in Europe after crossing the Atlantic Ocean. After a brief trip home, a new round of adventure in a 2CV begins. They drove through Africa, managing to get the vehicle through the Congo and the challenging barrier of the Ituri forest.

Omidvar Brothers Documentary

During their trips to different parts of the world, the Omidvar brothers filmed their observations. They launched the documentary they made on various networks around the world. This documentary includes the life and adventures of these two brothers. They had to hang around the Africans, live alongside primitive and dangerous Amazonian tribes, and eat raw animal meat with the Eskimos. And when you ask them about the hardships of their journey, they say: travel makes a person resistant, and the more a person deals with problems, the more resistant he becomes.

Omidvar Brothers Museum

When their journey ended, Abdollah settled in Chile, founding a successful film company, and Issa returned to Iran as a celebrity. Then, in Tehran, in an 18th-century Pahlavi palace, he constructed a museum to house all the artifacts he and his brother had collected. Visiting artifacts, such as a real severed human head, monkey skulls, and elephant tusks will absolutely amaze you. It’s a place very much worth a visit. If you traveled to Iran, make sure to visit Omidvars museums to learn more about the adventures of these two world travelers.

Omidvar Brothers Book

This is the Omidvar Brothers travelogue. There is also an English version of this book available. If interested, you can order the book from their website http://www.omidvarbrothers.ir. You can learn anything and everything there is to know about their journey by reading this book. In the book, you will find pictures, maps, and memories of the brothers written in the book; these will fascinate you, as these can only be found in Omidvar Brothers Travelogue.

Omidvar brothers

Omidvar Brothers: In Search of the World’s Most Primitive Tribes from 1954 to 1964.

The End of Omidvar Journey

According to the announcement of the Lamunda Cultural Center in Santiago, Chile, Abdollah Omidvar died on July 15, 2022, at the age of 89 in Chile. Abdollah Omidvar (1932-2022), a producer, filmmaker, and, most of all, the first Iranian adventurer who traveled to more than 100 countries and made up to 120 documentaries, is truly an icon in the hearts of Iranians.

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

International Earth Day

Earth Day 2024 (Date, Theme, Activities)

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International Earth Day is a global celebration for reminding each and every one of us that the earth and its ecosystems give us the life that we are all living. This particular day provides us an opportunity to raise global awareness of the challenges we all need to face for the sake of our planet’s well-being and all the life it supports. Since the earth is the only home we have, we need to increase our harmony with nature and learn everything there is to know about the needs of the present and future generations of humanity.

History of International Earth Day

As the industries started to mass-produce smoke and sludge into the environment, it ended with an enormous amount of air pollution, and water pollution, to sum up, destroying the world. The first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species. Sen. Nelson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest honor given to civilians in the United States, for his role as Earth Day founder. On April 22nd, 1970, around 20 million Americans gathered in the streets, parks, and auditoriums to manifest a healthy, livable environment. Thousands of colleges and universities planned protests against the decay of their home. Certain groups that were protesting against oil spills, polluting factories and power plants, toxic dumpsites, the loss of wilderness, and the extinction of wildlife suddenly understood they shared common values.

How Can We Save the Earth (Earth day Activities)?

Most years, Earth Day events vary from river cleanups to the removal of invasive plants. But this year, with the social distancing still in place for many of us, Earth Day has gone virtual. Virtual events, such as environmental speeches and movies, will occur on Earth Day, April 22. You can be a volunteer to try to make the world a better place and help the environment by participating in an event. There are a lot of great things that you can do on Earth Day. There are usually local activities as well that you can also participate in (Find Events Here).

2024 Theme: Planet vs. Plastic

The theme for Earthday.org 2024 is Planet vs. Plastics and to mark that Earthday.org has called for a 60% global reduction in plastic production by 2040.

The earth is the only home we have, we all live on it and our livelihood is highly dependent on its generosity. We all know that anything we do and any choice we make, affect our planet. Therefore, it is time to think about what we have done for our home and what we can do.
Here is the action we have taken so far! Matinabad Desert Eco-Camp. The organic farm was founded in 2008 by a group of environmentalists and tourism experts. The basic premises of establishing Matinabad Eco-Camp was to present, maintain, contribute and promote considering, respecting, and conducting the ethic codes of the International Tourism and Ecotourism organizations in order to approach CSR and SRB models and achieve sustainable and Responsible Tourism in IRAN.
As the first Iranian Eco-Camp, we offer unforgettable adventures close to the local people and the desert nature. Baking Persian bread or cooking with the local women, harvesting in our Organic farm and orchards or Treks on camel or on foot, bike rides through landscapes of sand dunes and mountain gorges, desert walks, safari short trips with Jeeps or ATV bikes, and star gazing at night are included in our Camp activities.

Respect The Nature

There is nothing more enjoyable than walking, cycling, or carpooling to get from place to place in delightful nature. The fewer cars on the road, the better. Now we all know that nature owes its beauty to our tall and green friends. So why not make more friends in our environment? Plant a tree. Trees are an enormous part of our earth, and planting one will just add to the health and wellness of the world that we live in. Consider making your yard an oasis for birds and other creatures. You can put in food for birds, stray cats, or dogs, install birdhouses, and more. By making it comfortable for them, they will be more likely to stick around.

International Earth Day

International Earth Day

Start from Your Own Home

Do you have a recycling system? If you don’t, then probably getting one could be a big step towards helping the environment from the mass-produced trash. Take a look and see what you can recycle in your local area and see if you can work to make a difference in that way. Make sure that your workplace is more environmentally friendly. That way, not only do you feel much better but also you’ve done such an excellent job by helping your world. Stop drinking bottled water or using plastic bags! There are plenty of options out there that you could choose from instead. If you stop using plastic bags and bottles, you can save lots of lands that would be filled up with plastics. Go on a more plant-based diet to manage your footprints in the environment.

Keep in Touch with Nature

Leave the house and enjoy the beauty of nature. Go on a hike or even to the park. Keep in touch with nature to remind yourself exactly why you want to go through this path and put so much time and effort into what could lead to finally restoring our home. Don’t just leave it to Earth day! If we can do countless things when we are celebrating Earth Day, imagine just how much more we could do if we kept taking care of our earth every other day throughout the year. So, why not try to seek what can be done within the whole year and make taking care of the environment a regular part of how you live?

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

Persian Carpet

Persian rug: Everything about Persian carpet

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From ancient times, Iranian people have used hand-woven carpets to change their homes from a dull house to a beautiful one. When it comes to carpets, everybody knows about those masterpieces woven by the artistic hands of the Iranians. The Persian rug is that magical element that can turn every house into a mansion. People adore Persian carpets for their complicated designs, splendid colors, and incomparable art. If you want to know more about the Persian Carpets lying in the heart of every Iranian house, keep reading!

The history of the Persian rug

Before the art of carpet weaving thrived in today’s society, people used animal skins as a mat and a cover to protect themselves from the cold and wet environment to bring comfort and convenience to their families. As time passed and experiences were exchanged, weaving flourished, which is now developing and evolving in its present form. Carpet weaving began in Persia approximately 2,500 years ago as an art. The Pazyryk rug, which is the oldest carpet found on Earth, dates back to the 5th century BC. The patterns used in this carpet have been attributed to the Achaemenian Empire and the Iranians in those times. The density and quality of knots used in this carpet are still unique and impressive to many artists.
The Iranian carpet began to develop into traditional patterns over time and became a work of art, led to the development of carpet weaving as a form of art. Today, Iran is considered among the several great pioneers in Persian carpet.

Persian-Carpet

The structure of the Persian Carpets

Iranian carpets are usually made of a mixture of wool and cotton. You can also find regions like Hamadan and Kurdistan that use camel hair for weaving carpets. Silk is also frequently used to make finely knotted ones in regions such as Qom and Tabriz, which are very popular among carpet lovers. Iranian original rugs are traditionally hand-knotted and consist of strings of warp and thousands of knots constituting the carpet’s weft. Many have floral designs with roaming tendrils and come in a wide variety of colors. Other valued Persian motifs include bold medallions, spandrels, repeating arabesques, borders often utilizing repeated Herati patterns of flowers, animals, or human figures. Every region of Iran has its own unique design, motifs, and even colors. We will try to introduce the most outstanding Iranian carpets.

Tabriz Carpet

One of the unique persian handicrafts in Tabriz is carpet weaving, which has world reputation. Carpet weaving in Tabriz started before the Safavid era and is still one of the oldest and most famous centers of hand-woven carpet weaving in the world. Unsurprisingly, it is still famous among foreign traders today. Tabriz carpets have been able to attract countless fans by using new colors and designs. In general, the layout and colors of Tabriz carpets have a great variety. One of the designs of Tabriz carpets, which has been very popular in both the past and today, is a four-season carpet that has many details and depicts the life of farmers through the seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Isfahan Carpet

The gorgeous city of Isfahan has many tourist attractions and magnificent architecture, so it is no wonder it is one of the most visited cities by tourists in Iran. In Isfahan, which is the main center of handicrafts in Iran, in addition to many works of art, unique carpets can be considered as souvenirs. Isfahan’s carpet designs are inspired by the magnificent architecture of the entire city. From city palaces and gardens to the tiles of the mosques. Other patterns, such as pictorial designs, human sketches and animal motifs, can also be seen in their works. The density of the knot is very high, and its thickness is low, so they are considered high quality and exquisite carpets.

Yazd Carpet

From the early 1930s, Kermani merchants began to produce Yazdi carpets for sale in the European and American markets. Yazd handmade carpets and rugs are very high quality and are highly durable; so many people would like to buy them. Yazdi carpets have elastic and bergamot designs and often an invariant background and free margins and sometimes designs imitating Kashan carpets. The main popular characteristic of Yazd’s handmade carpets is the traditional design, the bergamot centered in the middle of the carpet. You can rarely find a Yazdi carpet with small bergamots scattered all over the carpet.

Nain Carpet

This carpet is made of fluff instead of wool, and it is known for its short pile and light and matte background colors with bergamot designs. Typically, Nain carpets are dyed red, blue, or beige on the surface. The resemblance of Nain rugs to the nearby city of Isfahan is undeniable. High knot density and fineness in texture can vividly be seen in this region’s carpets. A typical carpet design in Nain city is a medallion design in the center of the rug along with Islamic motifs or flower designs. Remarkably, fine Nain rugs are made entirely of silk. Obviously, these silk carpets have higher prices than those made of wool.
As you can see, it is no surprise that the Iranian carpet has earned a worldwide reputation. If you are interested in art and handicraft, particularly the art of carpets, Iran Doostan offers some tours where you will get the opportunity to meet the nomads and how they make carpets.

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

Ali Vaghefi interview on international tourists in Iran

International tourists in Iran are turning to experimental and eco-tourism

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Iran Doostan tour CEO, Mohammad Ali Ashraf Vaghefi, had an interview with ILNA News recently about the state of tourism and incoming tours to Iran. In his interview Mr. Vaghefi said; fortunately, we have witnessed a noticeable demand from international tourists in Iran since Iran has started to grant visa to international tourists. However, there has been a decline in requests due to the spread of the Omicron variant and the negative news in this regard.

He continued: “A number of tourists have canceled their trip to Iran and postponed it to another time.” He added, there have been groups of tourists who wanted to come, but had to cancel their trip because of the positive COVID test of some members of the group. Therefore, the arrival of international tourists to Iran has slowed down to some extent and most of them have postponed their travel to mid-April. Fortunately, there are a good number of tour reservations for May and June.
Mr. Vaghefi emphasized that although it is said that we expect more tours after Nowruz, there is still a long way to reach the number of tourists we had before the Covid 19 outbreak. There will be no large group of tourists in Iran, like 20 to 30. Instead, we expect smaller groups of 5 to 15 people.

Mr. Vaghefi stated that most of the tourists who intend to travel to Iran are from European countries, and there is a higher demand in the European market. In the meanwhile, the requests are mainly targeting classic cultural tours in Iran. However, there seems to be a change in the demands, in a way that more international tourists are seeking experimental tourism and eco-tourism in Iran. He highlighted that middle-aged tourists are still the dominant group traveling to Iran, yet with a different taste regarding their favorite destinations and type of experience. As mentioned before, we are witnessing more tourists with a preference towards experimental and nature tourism.

Regarding the recent changes in the price of tours in Iran, Mr. Vaghefi said: “Considering the inflation in Iran’s economy, we are witnessing an increase in prices in various sectors, including accommodation and food, and the exchange rate has also increased significantly. Therefore, tour operators are allowed to increase their package prices up to 4-5 per cent, which is quite common around the world. Considering the unreasonable increase in prices in the past years which was mostly objected by our international partners, this is considered a positive change.