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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Persian Garden; the Paradise on Earth, Tours to Iran

Persian Garden, the Paradise on Earth

The Persian garden, in many ways, resembles paradise on Earth. The general pattern of a Persian garden (Bostan) is a rectangular form consisting of four quarters abundant in trees and flowers. Persian gardens feature streams and pathways, ponds and fountains, usually a central pavilion, and the walls surrounding the garden. The Persian gardens are so remarkable that nine out of a wide variety are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. These gardens are located in different geographic parts of Iran with different climates and have their own unique features, but they are still similar in their overall structure.

Dowlatabad garden in Kashan

Dowlatabad garden, a Persian paradise, located in Yazd city

In Persian literature, the word garden in Persian ‘Bostan’ means paradise, derived from the word “paridaiza”. The term paridaiza refers to a garden enclosed by walls. This walled garden creates harmony between nature and the human art of creation. The evergreen trees harness the sharp sunlight, the flowing water makes the environment refreshing, and the pavilion blocks the sunlight while providing a picturesque view from the terrace.

Persian Garden History

Persian garden holds roots in the 6th BC when Cyrus The Great, who ruled over a vast territory, determined the plan of the ancient garden of Pasargadae and ordered it to be constructed at Pasargadae (close to Shiraz province). In fact, the Persian garden plan, its elaborate architecture, and the presence of natural elements originated from Cyrus’ notions. The purpose of the Persian garden was to provide physical and spiritual relaxation. So, it is true to say that it was during the Achaemenid Empire that the idea of an earthly paradise came into reality.

The Old Days of Persian Gardens

Later, the Sassanids created gardens of Persia inspired by Zoroastrianism. According to their religious belief, the four quarters of the garden resembled four seasons of the year, and the importance of water running through the yard was more emphasized. The oldest documented illustration of a Persian garden also dates back to the Sassanid era. In the bas-relief of Taq-e Bostan, the hunt garden of Khosrow Parviz (the king of the Sassanid dynasty) is one of the oldest works of engraved art that depicts the geometry of the Persian garden. In the Islamic period, there was a significant improvement in gardens in terms of aesthetics.

ancient Persian gardens

The Ancient Pasargadae Persian Garden

Persian Garden Features

Persian garden architecture, geometry, and design are not the only aspects that make them unique. Symbolism has a profound role in adding value to the Iranian garden. Natural and artificial elements combine in the garden in a perfect reflection of symbolic and physical beliefs. Various opinions exist about the meaning of each element in the garden; however, most agree that it represents an earthly paradise. Moreover, four quarters called Chahar Bagh (four gardens) symbolize the universe whose architect is God, the water represents men’s and women’s purification, and the evergreen trees, particularly cypress trees, signify immortality. They are valuable not only for their symbolism but also for their usefulness.

An Inspiration for Persian Arts

Since Iranians appreciate art in different forms, the idea of the Persian garden has influenced the design, decoration, and description of other works of art, such as Persian carpet, pottery, calligraphy, music, and poetry. Among all these, Persian carpets are a great illustration of Persian gardens. There are many carpet designs that take inspiration from the Persian garden, so perhaps it is better to refer to the carpet as a flat Persian garden full of trees, flowers, and birds.

Fin garden kashan

A view of Fin Garden located in Kashan

Ancient Persian Gardens

It has been a long time since the construction of Pasargadae in 6th BC. However, the Persian garden has maintained its geometrical and architectural principles. It has also found its way to other countries, especially Agra in India and Andalusia in Spain. Moreover, Pasargadae Garden, Chehel Sotoun, Fin Garden, Eram Garden, Shazdeh Garden, Dowlatabad Garden, Abbasabad Garden, Akbarieh Garden, and Pahlevanpour Garden are the Persian garden examples inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they attract tours to Iran either by their survived plans or their scenic sceneries.

If you are planning to visit Iran, here is the link to Iran online visa form and our Iran tours.

The Role of Handicrafts in Tourism and Development

The Role of Handicrafts in Tourism and Development

Handicrafts are part of the tangible cultural heritage of all nations. This cultural component can lead to economic development. Regarding the role of handicrafts in tourism and development, the World Crafts Council (WCC), affiliated with UNESCO, was founded in 1964 to help economic growth for craftspeople worldwide.

The Core of Tourism

Handicrafts, as cultural souvenirs, play a significant role in tourism too. In many countries, handicrafts are considered the core of tourism development, and tourism facilities have been built near the major production centers. Some try to show their originality and identity by offering new products made through a combination of their national symbols with their handicrafts.

Iranian Handicrafts

Handicraft is a significant industry in Iran. The tours to Iran usually include buying Persian handicrafts, especially Persian carpets and Persian miniatures. The Iranian handicraft industry is developing due to its great diversity. “Different countries are developing handicrafts worldwide by not underestimating them as just decorative objects,” said Rasoul Zargarpour, governor of the Isfahan Province.
If you plan to travel to Iran, here is the link to online Iran visa.

The Role of Handicrafts in Tourism and Development

Persian Enameling, a majestic expression of art

Towards International Markets

He said that special attention is dedicated to handicrafts, especially in rural areas, by making rules for handicrafts in Iran’s 6th Development Plan. He also noted that the development of handicrafts has a significant role in employment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Establishing large handicraft workshops and knowledge-based centers for handicrafts, forming export committees, finding new markets, and making targeted policies to encourage more producers to be active in international markets should be among our programs.

Handicrafts and Tourism

“Tourism and handicrafts are two main elements in resistance economy. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the center of genuine handicrafts. Last year, Shahreza was registered nationally as the city of pottery. Moreover, Mehr Gerd Village is going to be introduced as the village of handicrafts in the world”, Jafar Jafarsalehi, deputy head of the handicraft department of Isfahan ICHTO, added. There is a mutual relationship between tourism and handicrafts. Handicrafts are one of the factors influencing tourist attractions, and tourism development will end in the growth of handicraft production and sale.

Tourism and Development

Balochi Duzi, a kind of Iranian handicraft

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

Moghadam-museum-Tehran

Moghadam Museum, a Historic Priceless House in Tehran

Moghadam Museum is a historic priceless house in Tehran and it is worth a visit for tours to Iran. The museum is located in the heart of one of the most crowded streets of Tehran; however, it has such a peaceful environment with so many splendid objects that makes the tourists feel quite comfortable.

A small beautiful garden with several turquoise ponds and many colorful trees such as pomegranates and cedars embraces the main building and its surrounding areas. A cozy cafe in the garden also gives the chance to have a sip of juice or coffee, while enjoying the spectacular view of the museum.

Moghadam Museum is known as one of the most precious museums where visitors can find many priceless items such as gems, textiles, paintings, pieces of furniture, and prehistoric objects in different parts. Various Iranian tile-works narrating many Iranian tales also catch eyes at each corner.

 

Moghadam-museum-Tehran

Garden of Moghadam Museum in Tehran, Iran

The house was a luxurious house dating back to Qajar period and it belonged to Ehtesab-ol-Molk who was one of the authorities of Nasseredin Shah’s dynasty. Later, the house was left for his son “Mohsen Moghadam” and his son’s French wife” Salma”.

Mohsen Moghadam was a painter, a great archaeologist, and the professor at Tehran University. He combined art and history to design Tehran university logo representing an image of stucco seals of Sassanid period. The couple both loved history and culture and they dedicated life to collecting historical objects from around the world and displaying them in their house. In 1972, Mohsen and Salma bequeathed the family house and all its treasure to Tehran University.

Moghadam Museum

A beautiful view of Moghadam Museum in Tehran, Iran

Along with the unique objects exhibited in Moqadam Museum, many photos in the house depict the life of Mohsen and Salma to add a good homelike feeling to the museum.

Moghadam Museum is not far from Bazaar and National Museum of Iran, and a half day is enough to discover its many beauties. One can also reach it by getting off in Hasan Abad subway station which is very close to Moqadam Museum.

Having decided to travel to Iran? Find more information on Iran visa and things to do in Tehran and check out our Iran tours.

Ramadan, a Good Opportunity for Tourists to Discover Other Face of Iran

Visiting Iran During Ramadan: Tips & Guide

Ramadan, the ninth month of the lunar calendar (Islamic calendar), is the time all Muslims are expected to fast for the whole month, except for children, people with medical conditions, pregnant women, and travelers. Iran, as a Muslim country, follows Ramadan rituals too. The fasting takes from sunrise (dawn) to sunset (dusk) with refraining from food and drink. This forbearance is believed to purify the spiritual nature and to feel a deeper sympathy with the deprived people.

People who fast have a light meal early before dawn named Sahari and break their fast with an elaborate meal called Iftari. Sahari is usually a big family breakfast, consisting of Persian bread, cheese, tea, and dates, as well as prepared meals. Iftar, on the contrary, sounds like a feast. Many religious places in Iran such as mosques host the public for Iftar too. Ramadan ends with Eid al Fitr.

Some tips for tourists

What is it like for the tourists who travel to Iran during Ramadan? Well, you will notice more changes in daily life in smaller cities comparing the larger ones of course. Your options for eating and drinking and your time for some activities could be more limited as well. But as this religious month has its own special rituals, it could still be counted as an attraction to the tours to Iran.

Ramadan; a Good Opportunity for Tourists to Discover Other Face of Iran

Iranians making Ash Reshteh hosting fasting people

Traveling to Iran during Ramadan offers an opportunity to see a different side of Iranians’ lifestyle such as serving Iftar in religious gatherings and public places, and Iranian nightlife. When the fast is broken in the evening, many shops or people who have made a pledge, offer the passengers and pedestrians the dates, tea, soup, Halva, Haleem (traditional delectable and nutritious porridge made of wheat and meat), and other delicious foods for free. Though some shops and restaurants are closed during the day during Ramadan, tourists can have a richer experience of Iranian-style nightlife. At night, most of the shops, especially the restaurants, coffee shops, and street-food stalls, as well as some shopping and recreational areas such as pools or the movies remain open past midnight hours. Many families and young people come out and spend time in the streets and parks until near dawn. The cities, covered in glowing lights and crowded with people at such a late time, seem more alive than at any other time. So, it’s a good opportunity to mingle with locals.

Ramadan; a Good Opportunity for Tourists to Discover Other Face of Iran

Nightlife in Ramadan nights of Iran

The tourists are not expected to fast or follow Islamic practices, but they are expected to respect the Iranian Muslims’ rituals by refraining from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during the day. However, some restaurants and fast-food outlets, especially restaurants and cafes in hotels, highways, airports, railways, and bus stations are open; so, they can have meals there. Some fast-food chains offer takeaway food as well.

Moreover, many tourist sites are open during the day except for special events such as the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ali on the 21st of Ramadan. So, there is no need to worry about changing your travel itinerary during Ramadan.

There are some must-eats that are strongly recommended to tourists who travel to Iran during Ramadan. Āsh Rechte (Persian traditional soup made of vegetables and noodles) and Sholeh Zard (Persian pudding made of rice and saffron) are among them. Zulbia & Bamieh are also traditional Iranian sweets for Ramadan that you can find in almost all confectionaries.

Despite what many tourists think about restrictions and limitations in Ramadan, traveling to Iran in Ramadan could be a good opportunity for tourists to discover the other face of Iranian culture, hospitality, beliefs, and nightlife.

You may find Ramadan in Iran interesting to read.

From 2016 to March 2017, 6 million tourists travelled to Iran

From 2016 to March 2017, 6 million tourists travelled to Iran

From 2016 to 2017, 6 million tourists traveled to Iran. The statistics in comparison to the previous year is indicative of the fact that an increase of more than %30 in the number of tourists who traveled to Iran. Asqar Qahari- the Director of Tourism Department of Tehran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture- mentioned that comparing to the previous year, the tourist arrival has increased more than 2 million. He also stated that more tourists would travel to Iran if the infrastructures needed for accommodation were prepared.

Iran has 21 sites registered on the World Heritage List of UNESCO; therefore, it is an amazing travel destination. Travel and Tour World (TTW) which is a travel trade media also introduces Iran as a Must-Visit-travel- destination.

Since the 2013 election of President Hassan Rouhani, Iran’s tourism has noticeably experienced an increase in international tourists’ arrival. Moreover, the experts believe that the tourism industry of Iran will have a boost in the following years; however, it depends on the true realization of its tourism potential.

Iran is hopeful to host 20 million tourists, spending $30 billion by 2025. To achieve the purpose, it has provided new hotels, offered better services, and facilitated the process of issuing visas. To indicate the hopeful future of tourism in Iran, Mr. M. Ali Vaghefi- the managing director of Iran Doostan Tours Co.-  also declared that comparing to the last year, the number of international tourists traveling to Iran in April and May 2017 has considerably increased.

the increase of international tourists' arrival to Iran in 2017                                                 The increase of international tourists’ arrival in Iran in 2017

Moreover, regarding the annual report of WTTC titled” travel and tourism economic impact 2017- Iran”, the number of international tourists who travel to Iran would reach approximately 10 million by 2027. Consequently, Iran would earn about $5.2 billion.