Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA)

 

Imam Khomeini International Airport is designed with the IATA code IKA and ICAO code OIIE and is southwest of Tehran, the capital of Iran. This airport is the largest and most significant air gateway for international travel. It opened in 2004 to reduce traffic congestion at the Mehrabad Airport and enhance international flight capacity. It is constructed on an area of 13000 hectares and has progressive features.

 

This airport has well-equipped terminals, modern waiting rooms, and diverse services. It is the destination or origin of many international flights. Another feature of this airport is easy access via highways and public transportation, such as taxis and metro. In addition to its vital role in passenger transportation, Imam Khomeini Airport is a central hub for air cargo transportation in Iran for Iran Air and Mahan Air. It plays a key role in Iran’s air connections with other countries worldwide.

 

History of Imam Khomeini International 

 

American stylists started building the airport in 1979, before the Iranian Revolution. After the revolution, the project was abandoned and later relaunched with local experts in charge. The airport opened on May 8, 2004, but due to management changes, it started on October 28, 2007. This international airport is one of Iran’s main airports, located 30 kilometers southwest of Tehran, near the Robat Karim and the Eslamshahr cities. The runway and departure terminal of Imam Khomeini International are the first things most foreign tourists see when coming to Iran. It is worth mentioning that Imam Khomeini Airport is one of the first airports equipped with a flight control tower simulator in Iran.

 

This project was designed in 2014 by an Iranian knowledge-based group. Imam Khomeini Airport is extensive and involves enormous spaces, a vast runway, and high-capacity parking. With the operation of the first phase of Imam Khomeini Airport, the second phase is also under construction.

This airport aims to become one of the main air transport and economic hubs in the region and the world, playing a crucial role in facilitating air transport and related services.

 

With the development of Imam Khomeini Airport City, the center will become a platform for combined transport and logistics that will meet the growing needs of numerous economic sectors and play a key role in the growth of international transport. If travelers want to reach the airport by car, travelers can use the Tehran-Qom or Tehran-Saveh Highway. From Imam Khomeini International Airport, you can reach Imam Khomeini Holy Shrine in 30 minutes, Azadi Tower in 45 minutes, Golestan Palace and Milad Tower in 1 hour, and Tochal Ski Resort in 1 hour and 20 minutes.

 

Hotels near Imam Khomeini International

 

The 5-star Rexan Hotel (Formerly Novotel) and 4-star Remis Hotel (Former Ibis) are two side-by-side hotels near Imam Khomeini International Airport, which started activity in 2016. The French hotel group has constructed these hotels on seven floors. Thus, if you have a long wait between flights in Tehran or prefer comfortable and contentedly accommodation within walking distance of the airport, you can book a room at one of these hotels near Imam Khomeini International Airport.

 

These hotels are in one building connected to the airport terminal by a pedestrian bridge. The good news is that besides 24-hour accommodation, you can have a short stay at Remis Hotel for 6 and 10 hours and Rexon Hotel for 6 hours at an affordable price. If you need some time to relax during your travel, hotels provide this option to you and have a cozy stay enjoying excellent service before continuing your trip. These hotels offer various amenities, including a spa center, sauna, qualified restaurants, a Jacuzzi, and particular rooms for disabled guests. A free shuttle bus is available every 20 minutes to drive the travelers to the airport. For short-time rests, Reclining chairs are available at the airport.

 

Services and Facilities Available inside the Imam Khomeini Airport

 

Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport has many facilities, which we will examine below.

 

Visa: Airport arrival visas for tourists and administrative and commercial matters related to travelers are handled through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa section located at the airport.

 

Banks and Currency Exchange: Multiple banks and exchange offices at Imam Khomeini International Airport offer various services. They are in both the arrival and departure halls for the passengers.

 

ATM: There are also several ATMs in the airport where you can withdraw cash.

 

Wi-Fi: Imam Khomeini Airport provides free Wi-Fi at the arrival and departure lounges. You need to provide a mobile phone number to receive a password via text message. Additionally, internet cafes are available for services such as printing, copying, scanning, and activating SIM cards. All are in the entrance hall.

 

Mobile Charging: Charging stations are available at the departures and arrivals parts.

 

Medical Services: The airport is a long distance from the medical center. So, Imam Khomeini Airport has a fully equipped emergency department that provides emergency medical services to passengers round-the-clock for emergencies. This department, with expert medical teams and emergency equipment, is ready to respond to the medical and emergency needs of passengers and airport staff. Emergency services and assistance include first aid, immediate treatment, and, if necessary, transportation to nearby hospitals. These services are intended to maintain the safety and health of passengers and serve passengers and airport visitors.

 

Baby Care Services: There is a baby care room for families with children.

 

Services for Elders: Imam Khomeini Airport has amenities, such as wheelchairs and special aids. Also, there are helpers for disabled and elderly people. Airport personnel will accompany these passengers at all stages, from check-in to boarding the plane, to ensure a good trip. These measures include assistance with luggage, guidance in waiting rooms, and facilitating passage through security procedures.

 

Duty-Free and Shopping: Imam Khomeini Airport features several shops offering various goods, such as clothing, souvenirs, electronics, and hygiene items. Some of these shops are open 24 hours a day, allowing travelers to access them at any moment.

 

Food and Drinks: Imam Khomeini Airport has numerous restaurants and coffee shops that service passengers hourly and provide a suitable environment for relaxing and eating. Despite hot meals, diverse hot and cold drinks are served at the airport.

 

Prayer Rooms: There are 17 prayer rooms available to all passengers in different parts.

 

Commercially Important Person (CIP)

 

The Commercial Important Person (CIP) has been operated since 2012 in a separate building from the main Terminal of Imam Khomeini Airport in a space of 7500 square meters for international flights on three floors. With a decade of experience providing Airport Services to specific customers and recognizing the concerns of travelers who travel a lot and busy travelers, CIP has supplied a wide range of complete and diverse services in an ideal environment full of respect and relaxation, and your valuable time will be saved.

 

CIP passengers do not experience the usual entry and exit procedures, such as waiting in long queues or for a flight card and luggage. Instead, they rest in the CIP Ceremonial Hall before or after their flight, regardless of the congestion of the main Airport Terminal. During their time there, they are welcomed with various Iranian and foreign dishes, cold and hot drinks, and a free buffet. The CIP team handles all processes, from carrying luggage to obtaining boarding passes and transferring passengers to the boarding bridge in private vehicles.

 

Other services are provided for the welfare of respected travelers, such as temporary accommodation in suites, obtaining an airport visa upon arrival in the country, Airport transfer, holding business meetings in the conference room, and buying from the booth by supplying premium products and luxury handcrafts of Iran in a quiet and carefree environment are other benefits of the CIP services.

 

CIP lounge services offer a lift for airplane entry and a wheelchair for elderly travelers or those with physical disabilities. Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran was established before Iran’s revolution and is a crucial communication hub for other countries. This airport provides diverse amenities and facilities for traveler’s comfort. Two old and historic hotels are near the airport, and exceptional travelers can utilize the services offered by CIP.

 

Solo Female Travel Tips to Iran

 

There are new lifestyles that have changed our already-settled expectations. Solo female travel is one of them that is worth addressing the causes and evaluating tips for its safety. Although there are some general rules, which must be considered and the present blog focuses on Solo female travel tips to Iran. Before looking at such precautions, it seems to be of particular interest to briefly review the motivations leading to such a phenomenon. The modern world generally has brought about a feeling of boredom and monotonous life that creates a strong desire for a kind of alteration that restores meaning to the barren modern life. The hassles of today’s world also press people to seek a lonely corner to take refuge in and feel better. Solo traveling would open a window to a peaceful experience.

 

In other words, solo traveling would give travelers a sort of self-protection against intruding factors from work, coping with life, or even different tastes of co-workers or friends. This way, one can focus on her interests and favorite lists. This is rather a relief than pride or self-centeredness. In one word, this is a kind of therapy for a busy, exhausted mind, this is indeed a kind of medication. Now that the motivations are clear and considered to be like medicine, it is vital to approach this fact from a safe viewpoint so that the sugar-coated pill of solo travel turns out to be all sweetness and happiness. Within this context, those females who want to step in and enter the adventurous world of solo travel need to seriously follow up on some tips especially while traveling to a country that has its specific rules and traditions like Iran to enjoy their enterprising experience.

 

Search completely and fully about your destination. Iran is a historical country with a rich cultural and traditional background. Knowing these customs is necessary for a solo woman who wants to travel to Iran. Search to find enough crucial information about public transportation, the right places to eat, the dominant beliefs and social viewpoints of the society like if the society is patriarchal or not, or the general perspective of the society about women or specifically about solo traveling of women. To search about it, it is far better to ask about travelers who have traveled to Iran before or search online travel agencies and read related blogs or reviews. Within this context, try to predict every possible danger or scenario and try to find solutions for them in advance.

 

It is better to inform one or some of your relatives about your travel plan since in solo travels it is reasonable to let another person know about the places you would like to visit or the hotels you would like to stay. Regarding the places you would like to visit in Iran, you need to see if that historical place is free to visit by a woman or not. More importantly, what would be the conditions you need to follow like having an appropriate dress based on the regulations of the country? Moreover, you need to know enough information about the hotels and see which places are socially safe and appropriate for single women travelers. Also better to double-check in advance to see if your target hotel accepts single women travelers. Fortunately, most of the hotels in Iran welcome women solo travelers.

 

Try to be in touch and communicate with the local people and other single women travelers who are staying in your hotel or you may even find them online. Iranian people are naturally very sociable, and amiable and mingle with tourists. So, it is a very good idea to ask local people like the shopkeepers, or those working in your hotels about the safe areas or the visiting spots and the specific features together with the possible limitations. This way, you would receive the information you want exactly from those who are in your target society and already know the culture, customs, and norms. By doing this, you can easily prevent probable dangers that can await every unfamiliar tourist, especially a single woman traveler whose gender might cause extra issues in some societies. 

 

Make enough effort to remain invisible as much as possible. By using the term “ invisible” we mean not doing things or behaving in ways that easily attract the attention of the people ( passers-by stare). This is a very safe social behavior, especially for single women traveling to Iran where some cultural and ideological issues are considered to matter still, especially for some male figures. For example, wearing sharp flashy colors laughing loudly, or mingling too much with male figures might be misunderstood specifically when you are traveling by yourself without any companion. This is in a way respecting the culture of the society you are traveling to as well.

 

Be watchful and try to look simple without wearing jewelry as every kind of decoration makes you the target of thieves. Also, watch your wallet and don’t carry big money. Better to keep your precious things hidden. Do not trust strangers. Please also bear in mind that some actions of lifestyle might put you in trouble. For instance, riding a bike by women is not that popular in Iran but not forbidden. Yet, when you are traveling to Iran alone it is better to avoid it. Also better to choose the time for walking or other activities as night times might not be one hundred percent safe.

 

Traveling by yourself does not mean that you always need to stay alone. You can join other women, especially those you might meet in your hotels or even in public. You can also ask to join daily tours by referring to the famous travel agencies of the city you are in or even the one in your hotel. This is very safe and at the same time interesting to get familiar with other women while you are also enjoying your solo travel.

 

Most importantly, in case of trouble, do not try to solve the problem by yourself. Immediately refer to the nearest police station or the reception desk of your hotel and ask for help. This way, you won’t get hurt. If you try to adventurously get involved yourself, this means putting yourself at risk. Within this context, try to request travel insurance before your trip. To be more cautious, try to refer to mobile connection services at the airport or in the city you stay to introduce you to the best sim card choice so that you can stay in touch with your family and friends to keep them always updated about the places you visit or where you stay. It is of crucial importance to inform them via text messages or calls about the place you’re about to visit/stay or have recently stayed.

 

Enjoy your solo travel and stay safe by following the points this article tried to point out.

 

Which Countries Can Travel to Iran Without a Visa?

 

Iran has been always the target of attention for international tourists. Are you also interested in traveling to Iran? Aren’t you sure if you need a visa to visit Iran or not? Surprisingly, some countries don’t need visas to travel to Iran. In other words, traveling to Iran is very easy without any visa applications. Referring to the international negotiations between Iran and some countries, so far, political agreements have resulted in exempting fifteen countries from visa processing. The present article tries to review and examine this issue which deals with the necessary conditions for visiting Iran without a visa application.

 

The countries that don’t need visas to enter Iran without a visa are those that are listed below:

 

• Azarbaijan
• Bolivia
• Turkey
• Syria
• Lebanon
• Georgia
• Armenia
• Venezuela
• China
• Hong kong
• Macau
• Iraq
• Oman
• Malaysia
• Egypt

 

Within this context, the citizens of the above-mentioned countries can travel to Iran only having their valid passports and the entry seal that they would easily receive while entering Iran. Of course, the allowed period of stay is different based on the negotiated deals between the diplomatic parties of each country. For example, as announced so far, the period of stay for the Syrians and Armenians is ninety days, Georgians forty-five days, Lebanese, Iraqis, Bolivian, and Azerbaijanis thirty days, Egyptians twenty days, Chinese, Macau, and Hong Kong twenty-one days, Turkish people ninety days, Venezuelans and Malaysians only fifteen days. If the citizens of these countries need to stay further in Iran, they can contact the agencies of the foreign affair ministry that are capable of accomplishing visa issues and request for updating their visas.

 

For the citizens of these countries, there are specific necessities to travel visa-free to Iran. Although these citizens do not need any visa for entering Iran, they have to complete a particular form available at an entry spot whether at the airport or any entry station. This form is usually referred to as an entry and exit form that is sometimes known as a tourist card.

This card and form are necessary and compulsory to be filled out for everyone who wants to enter Iran. This form should be also completed even for those who don’t require a visa. This form is considered to be the collection of personal information like the visitor’s name, purpose of travel, and other related points. Also important to know that every visitor needs to mention where he or she wants to stay in Iran together with the exact duration of their stay. Noteworthy to mention that, visa exclusion only concerns tourist and business visas. If foreign applicants want to apply for student or work permit visas, they necessarily need to apply for specific related visas.

 

More importantly, it is crucial to know that the citizens of these countries can only travel to Iran without a visa if they travel to Iran from their own countries as the country of origin. Otherwise, if they want to enter Iran from another country rather than their own, they would require a visa. It is noteworthy to mention that the policies that concern visa exclusion are subject to change and might undergo conversion based on international political issues and altering actions. So, it is highly necessary to check every time you want to travel to Iran and be updated before you plan to travel. The only reliable place you can always refer to check this up, without a doubt, is the embassy of Iran in your country.

 

Iranian visa, by itself, is of different categories that need to be applied for in a specific way. What are the different types of Iranian visas? Everyone based on his or her travel plan and purpose needs a specific type of visa. Every kind of visa requires diverse conditions and various documents that will be explained here. 

 

There are generally, six major visa categories for Iranian visas:

 

• Iran Tourist visa
• Iran Student visa
• Iran Work permit visa
• Iran Visitor visa
• Iran Business visa
• Iran Political and governmental visa

 

Every one of the above-mentioned categories requires specific conditions and documents. For example, the documents you need to present for a tourist visa will be completely different from the documents you need to file for a business visa. But, generally, there are basic documents every type of visa necessarily needs to be offered by every applicant:

 

1- The completed form of visa application that is either online or in hard copy available in the embassy

2- A 4*6 passport photo which is a recently taken one not older than 6 months

3- Your valid passport with at least 6 month time- period till its expiry date with at least two blank pages for visa and the related stamps

 

The most important document, as mentioned before, is a valid visa with a valid date by the end day of your trip. Iranian citizens that are staying abroad and need to update their expired passport need to apply for a passport update in the nearest embassy and register their requests. Visa processing time is roughly and takes about seven working days. Referring to this fact, every visitor needs to apply for his or her visa in advance so that he or she can arrange the travel plans on time.

 

How to apply for an Iranian visa?

 

First of all, it is necessary to remember that the diplomatic relations between Iran and other countries affect visa conditions. This is the first step, foreigners need to refer to the website of the Ministry of foreign affairs of Iran and fill in the visa application form. It is also possible for them to refer to authentic travel agencies that have the authorized license for visa application services.

 

Generally speaking, issuing visas for the neighboring countries and those countries that have friendly relationships with Iran, is very easy and relatively fast. Personalized tours can facilitate the visitors’ travel to Iran easily and happily. So, do not hesitate to search for and consider various tours and packages for Iran and select the best available choice to enjoy your trip to the legendary land of Iran.

Best Hotels in Isfahan

 

Being always historically attractive and traditionally majestic, Isfahan naturally offers highly decorous and grandiose hotels. Let’s, talk about them.

 

Isfahan Abbassi Hotel

Isfahan Abbassi Hotel is the top best plushy, and gallant hotel not only in Isfahan but also unique, from the point of view of being imperial, in Iran. This pompous place is one of the oldest hotels in the world and the biggest in Iran. Abbassi Hotel is 300 years old and was constructed by the direct decree of Soltan Hoseyn from the Safavid dynasty. The building reveals the typical Persian architectural design. It has been modernized about 50 years ago in a very standard manner. It is called one of the most beautiful guesthouses in the world. It is a five-star hotel in Isfahan with 225 flats, 14 grand halls, and several restaurant and cafe shops ready to serve more than 1500 guests. The exceptional exterior structure, together with the beautiful Abbassi garden and the turquoise dome of the four-garden school have created a unique view for this hotel. This hotel is located in the historical area of the city and very close to tourist spots like the famous bridge of Isfahan on Zayandehrood and Naqsh-e-Jahaan Square. The rooms of the hotels range from usual single and double rooms to special royal Safavid and Qajar-style rooms.

 

Kowsar Hotel

Kowsar Hotel is very close to the riverside, Zayandehrood, and was one of the chain hotels of Shryton previously. Currently, it is part of the Parsian chain of hotels. The hotel has seven levels with 130 rooms. Later on, 40 rooms were added to this hotel and made a new part that was called The Turquoise (Firouzeh). This beautiful place has unique modern and traditional style restaurants both on the inner side and in the garden area.

 

Piroozi Hotel

Piroozi Hotel is a nice four-star hotel in Isfahan. It is located in the heart of the city, quite close to historical spots of the city like the Hasht Behesht Building, Isfahan Art Market, and the bridges.it is a five-level building with 95 rooms in different styles. It has good facilities available like a daily city tour, a travel agency, and a library.

 

Ali Qapu Hotel

Ali Qapu Hotel is another four-star traditional-style hotel in Isfahan that is in the city center near the traditional, historical palaces. It has four levels and 106 rooms in various styles. It is very close to major metro stations only 5 to 7 mins. An electronic automobile is available from 8 am to 6 pm to help with the quests. Unlimited Wi-Fi, a nice restaurant, and a swimming pool are among the facilities of the hotel. You need to call reception before checking in to pick you up as the area is stone-pavement and under a specific traffic regulation.

 

Aseman Hotel

Aseman Hotel is a four-star hotel in Isfahan with 13 levels. It is located in the best area of the city and has been built in the best European style. This hotel does have the only circular restaurant in the city. It is easy to access the major tourist and business spots of Isfahan. It is noteworthy to mention that the rooms in the west wing do not have access to the outside light, and the beds are single there. Some rooms appear in the shape of apartment flats with specific facilities.

 

Safir Hotel

Safir Hotel is another four-star hotel in Isfahan that is comfortable, well-located, and economical. It is an appropriate hotel for those who want to travel to Isfahan for official work. This hotel has six levels with calm, peaceful rooms that have double-layered windowpanes to prevent the outside noise come in. Although the hotel restaurant serves delicious food and there are other nice traditional restaurants close to the hotel. There are several entertainment facilities like the swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and daily city tours.

 

Attar Hotel

Attar Hotel is a very beautiful, four-star traditional-style hotel in Isfahan with eye-catching Islamic architecture. The rooms have been decorated using delicate Isfahani art. This hotel is grand and luxurious with different styles of suites. It has great facilities for entertainment like sauns, jacuzzi, swimming pool, traditional bath, Turkish bath, safety box, and other great options every tourist would like to enjoy. If you are looking for experiencing a real dreamy journey back to the heart of history, to traditional Safavid Isfahan, Attar Hotel could be a good choice as well.

 

Setareh Hotel

Setareh Hotel has been called Sadaf Hotel previously, is a clean traditional hotel in Isfahan that is situated in the historical area of the city. It has three levels with 57 rooms and suites that are beautifully decorated based on the cultural importance of the city. This hotel is near the historical palaces, gardens, and major tourist sports. Breakfast is included in this hotel, and the rooms come in several styles.

 

Sheykh Bahaei Hotel

Sheykh Bahaei Hotel is also a three-star Hotel in the heart of Isfahan that has both beauty and the practicality of being close to the major historical, tourist spots together with the official areas of the city. The building is very modern in style with 52 rooms that are well-equipped and very neat. The neighboring area is very peaceful and quiet, and the hotel staff are well-trained and fluent in the English language. The rooms come in varieties of double, twin, and single ones. The hotel does have seven levels and is close to the major metro station about 4 mins. Free unlimited Wi-Fi is another bonus of this comfortable hotel.

Although the above-mentioned hotels are the real best choices everyone could choose to stay in Isfahan, other nice traditional hotels, apartments, and furnished private flats are easily available in Isfahan. The ones stated above. However, we can guarantee their safety, popularity, and the level of attraction that they could have created among international tourists during the past years so far.

 

The 10 Best Budget Hotels in Tehran

Tehran has several many hotels, but some hotels have very reasonable prices which you could choose for your accommodation in Tehran. Let’s talk about them.

Asareh Hotel, which is among the modern ones, is a budget hotel in Tehran. Its location in Tehran, which is on Azadi Avenue, is a highly accessible place. Every guest is easily able to reach different governmental offices, tourist spots, and historical areas like the city theatre, museum of contemporary arts, museum of Persian Rugs, and more importantly Tehran Airport. This hotel is a four-star hotel that has 11 levels with 58 rooms and suites. Every room is fully furnished and does have full facilities every guest would need. The staff members are highly trained and would create a memorable stay for the quests.

Pars Tehran Hotel Apartment is located exactly in front of Tehran University and was renovated about ten years ago. The hotel does have ten levels and twenty rooms with good facilities. It is situated in the very heart of the city highly accessible to different visiting areas and entertainment spots, like the museums and historical places. Variously, it does have four bedrooms, twin-bed rooms, three bedrooms, and single ones. It is only 8 mins to Mellat city train station and less than 10 mins to the embassies of major countries like Germany, Russia, and Italy. It does have free Wi-Fi and a public pool that is half-price for the guests. 

Tehran Shahr Hotel is a three-star hotel with luxurious architecture in traditional style. It is a four-level hotel with 108 rooms and sites. This complex is located at the eastern entrance of Tehran close to the wood garden “ Sorkheh Hesaar”. This fact which is related to its distance from the city center, in a calm and peaceful area, has caused this place to be able to offer a very pleasing situation with clean weather suitable for every guest. It has luxurious single rooms which include breakfast, same quality rooms in a double bed, twin, and triple (three single rooms). It has a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a public pool half-price for the quests.

Pamchal Hotel is another three-star, budget hotel in Tehran. This hotel is Ten years old, and quite modern in style and facilities. Its location is near the center of the city, very close to medical centers, shopping areas, and business cores. BRT buses are available here, and Dowlat train station is so close to it, about 6 mins. Museums and good restaurants are also in its close neighborhood. It has 45 rooms with 90 beds that are single, double, and triple in variety as the guests prefer. 

Shahriar Hotel is a good and clean two-star hotel in Tehran that is located in a cultural and business center. The building has five levels and 74 rooms. It is easy to go to the traditional Bazaar of the city from this hotel. Interestingly, it is very close to Golestan Palace and Mirror Museum. It is a good example of a budget hotel in Tehran as it also offers five bedrooms to the guests in addition to private single and double rooms. It takes only four mins to reach Baharestan train station. 

Atlas Hotel is another two-star hotel in Tehran that is more than 40 years old. The old part of the building is only on three levels and doesn’t have an elevator but is very convenient. The new section of the hotel has four levels and elevators. It has 40 rooms with good facilities. The location of the hotel is also good, quiet in the neighborhood of the city center. It is situated only five mins from the two main train stations of the city. It does offer unlimited Wi-Fi in its single, double, and triple rooms. It is, fortunately, breakfast included. 

Pasargad Hotel is also a good two-star hotel in Tehran that is surprisingly about 50 years old. This fact reveals how experienced the staff is. The rooms are simple but well-equipped and very comfortable. It does offer twin, double, and single rooms with high-speed internet. There is a nice and clean restaurant with delicious Persian food. The famous Azadi square is close to this hotel together with Mehr Abaad Airport. The railroad station is only 15 mins from this hotel. It offers many facilities like daily city tours, traditional tea shops, ATMs, and entertainment like a game net and sauna bath. 

Saeed Hotel is a single-star hotel in Tehran located on the fourth level of a four-story apartment. It has 24 rooms and suites very close to historical and tourist spots like the National Museum of Iran and Golestan Palace. The rooms are neat but simple. However, they are enough comfortable to have basic facilities in the room like TV and internet. One of the major train stations of the city is only 6 mins from this hotel. It is worth mentioning that its single rooms only have windows that have access to outside light.

Arad Hotel is another single-star hotel in Tehran with 30 clean and comfortable rooms. The rooms are highly clean, well-lit, and well-designed. It does offer twin, double, four-bed and three-bed nice rooms. Its distance from the main train stations is only 5 mins. The location is so close to the official buildings.

Hotel Golestan is also one of the single-star hotels in Tehran. It is a three-level hotel very close to the main shopping center of Tehran and good medical centers. The rooms range from twin-bed rooms, double and triple. Interestingly, the rooms are very well-designed and so well-lit. it is about 7 mins to one of the main train stations of Tehran. 

Other similar budget hotels in Tehran are as great as these ten hotels but the ones mentioned above are those that are selectively very close to the city centers or the ones outstanding in one or two aspects like being located in a calm and peaceful areas. Enjoy your stay in such comfortable, nice hotels.

 

Zanjan Province in Iran

About Zanjan Province

The province of Zanjan covers an area of around 39,370 sq. km. To the east of this province is the Hamadan province, to the west is the West Azarbaijan province and to the south is the province of Kurdestan. Besides, to the north of the province are the Ardabil provinces and East Azarbaijan. Zanjan province is located in the plateau northwest of central Iran. The townships of Zanjan, Abhar, Ijrud, Khoda Bandeh, Khoram Dareh, Tarom, and Mah Neshan are the constituents of this province. 

Zanjan province comprises of two regions-plain and mountainous. The former spanning various areas of the province, and the latter is the northern sector, enveloping many high peaks or summits. In the southern territory of Zanjan, there is an alluvial plain, to the north of this vast plain are the Soltanieh heights and to the south of which stand the Qeydar heights. These form the limits of the said plain. Many rivers are flowing in this province and the most important of which being the Qezel Ozan River.

Its capital is Zanjan City. In the region, Zanjan is famous for its seedless grapes. Manufactures include bricks, cement, milled rice, and carpets. Chromium, lead, and copper is mined. Zanjan is well known for its beautiful handcrafts such as knives, traditional sandals called Charugh and Malileh. Malileh is a handcraft made with silver wires. The artists of Zanjan make many things like decorative dishes and their special covers as well as silver jewelry. In ancient times, Zanjan was known for its stainless and sharp knives. But this tradition is gradually becoming extinct by the introduction of Chinese knives to the market which is cheaper and better made. Many villagers today are traditional carpet weavers. This is perhaps Zanjan’s most popular handcraft.

 

The Land of Salt Mummies

As mentioned above Zanjan Province is located in the northwest of Iran and is divided into mountainous and plain parts. The objects found in Cave Galijik suggest that the civilization of this province dates back to the Stone Age nearly 7000 years B.C. Geographical conditions, plenty of water, and fertile soil have made the province suitable for farming and husbandry. Most villages are of ancient origin and have interesting locations. Zanjan villages lie in plains, valleys, and foothills of the mountains and would catch the attention of any newcomer. The people of this land come from various ethnicities. Most people speak the Azari language. it is important to mention again that major handicrafts of the province include Charugh (A kind of local sandal) making, copper smiting, knife making, rug weaving, etc.

Soltaniyeh Dome

To the southwest of Kohan Dej, lies Soltaniyeh Dome, one of the structures of the Islamic era. This structure was built by the order of Sultan Mohammad Khuda Bandeh (Oljeitu) in nine years in 12th century A.D. Oljeitu and Ghazan Khan of the Il-Khan dynasty modeled this building after similar tombs in Iran. It is the third-largest brick structure in the world and the first largest one in Iran. It contains eight verandas and 50 rooms with a height of 50 meters.

Mausoleum of Chalabi Oghli

Just 500 meters to the southwest of Soltanieh Dome lies the tomb of Chalabi Oghli which was built in 12th-century CE. The complex contains a tomb and a temple. The location of graves differs from similar tombs as the Sultan is buried in the center and his followers are buried around it according to their hierarchical positions. 

 

Zanjan Congregational Mosque

Alternatively called Seyyed Mosque, the structure is located in one of the old districts of the city. The mosque was built in the 18th century and includes 4 verandas. 

 

Rakhtshur Khaneh Structure

Rakhtshur Khaneh meaning washhouse has been built in the center of the city in an area known as bara Jamal Choghuri. The structure was established 150 years ago by two masons Mashhadi Akbar and Mashahdi Esmaeil. The stones of the structure were carried from a stone mine in the village of Ajdarhatu. The structure includes two parts. The first part was the managerial and the second was the washhouse itself. 

 

Sojas Village

The village is located near the town of Khoda Bandeh, 17 km from the town of Gheydar in a plain. The village has a dry, cold climate and is divided into two halves by the Sojas river. The old congregational mosque, the mausoleum of Emamzadeh Ebrahim, and Hosseynieh tomb are among the most visited sites.

 

Kataleh Khur Cave of Garmab

The cave is located 140 km southwest of Zanjan near the village of Garmab, in the southern foothills of Mount Saghezlu. There are beautiful stalagmites and stalactites in different colors there. The skeleton of a four-feet animal which has changed into a calcite fossil has been found.

Dash Kassan Caves

These caves are located 10 km distance southeast of Soltanieh nearby Vir village. They are rectangular caves with a depth of 400 meters, the widths vary from 50 to 300 meters. Inside the main cave, there are 3 other caves with beautiful carvings of symmetric dragons with a length of 3.5 meters. On both sides, floral designs and Arabesques can be seen. They have been carved by Chinese artists who were brought to this land upon the order of Oljeitu, the Mongolian ruler of the time. Different works of art belonging to the Sassanid and Il-Khan periods have been discovered at the site.

Historical Attractions:

Soltaniyeh dome as one of the large brick shells of the world and one of the masterpieces of Il-Khan period architecture, Dash Kasan Caves, Alamdar and Sa’idabad hills in Abhar, Zolfaghari building, Shemiran, Sansizosity Castle, Golshan and Malek Caravansaries, Gheisariyeh, Haji Dadash, and Mirbaha traditional baths, Rakhtshuy Khaneh historical building, Marbaha Ad-Din, Sardar, and Haj Seyed Mohammad foundations in Zanjan. 

 

Cultural Attractions: 

Abhar and Ghorveh Friday-prayer Mosques, Zeid Ul-Kabir, Mohammad, Ebrahim, and Esma’il holy shrines in Abhar City, Sajas Friday-Prayer Mosque, Ghidar Nabi mausoleum in Khoda Bandeh City, Mirza’i, Gholamir, and Seyed Ebrahim holy shrine in Zanjan. 

 

Natural Attraction:

Garmab and Ghar Katleh hot springs in Khoda Bandeh city, Abdak, Arkoin, Angouran, Allah baghi, and Nigjeh springs and Anguran preserved Area in Zanjan.

 

Yazd Province in Iran

About Yazd Province

Yazd Province is another of the 31 provinces of Iran. It is in the hub of Iran country, and its administrative center is the city of Yazd. The province has been divided into ten counties: Abarkuh, Ardakan, Bafq, Behabad, Khatam, Mehriz, Meybod, Ashkezar, Taft, and Yazd County. The city of Yazd is the economic and administrative capital of the province and therefore the most heavily populated.

Yazd province is situated at an oasis where the Dasht-e Kavir desert and the Dasht-e Lut desert meet. The city itself is sometimes called “the bride of the Kavir” because of its location, in a valley between Shir Kuh, the tallest mountain in the region at 4,075 meters above sea level, and Kharaneq. The city proper is located 1,203 meters above sea level.

 

The Land of Air Ducts

Yazd Province is located in the center of Iran. Since Yazd is far from the sea and the humidity is low, the province has long hot summers and cold winters. It has poor vegetation and the only places with rich lawns are the foothills of Shirkuh Mountain. Kalmandan and Bahadoran are two nature reserves of the province that are the habitats to different species of animals like Iranian gazelles, rams, ibexes, mountain goats, leopards, hyenas, foxes, wolves, and birds like grouses, eagles, magpies, partridges, and bustard. The desert province enjoys favorable weather conditions only for half of the year, but the attractions of the desert-like clear sunny sky, starry nights, absolute silence, and alluring mirages have turned this province into a place of interest for tourists. 

The adherents of the three religions of Islam, Judaism, and Zartoshti (Zoroastrianism) have peaceful coexistence in Yazd. The most important ceremonies of Zoroastrianism include Mahaneh, Fasli, Noruz-e Jamshidi, Sadeh, etc. The major famous Jewish festival is the Pesach or Passover. The important handicrafts of the province include velvet weaving, Termeh weaving, coarse blanket weaving, straw mat weaving, blanket weaving, etc. y and weaving, blanket weaving, etc. The old city of Yazd as the biggest alive mudbrick city in the world was registered as a world heritage site in 2017.

 

 Friday Mosque of Yazd

This Mosque was founded in the twelfth century, the current structure dates to several building phases during the fourteenth century with significant addition during the fifteenth, and eighteenth or nineteenth centuries. The high barrel-vaulted iwan leads to an expansive domed sanctuary. Large rectangular winter prayer halls flank the sanctuary and Iwan, a layout that resembles the Sasanian triple-Iwan plan. The mosque is also significant for the early and substantial use of transverse vaulting in the rectangular winter prayer halls, a system that also has precedents in Sasanian structures. 

 

In the northwest prayer hall, the system is perfected, with narrow supporting arches and wide vaults pierced with fenestrated octagonal cupolas. The tile decoration is also noteworthy, although much is restoration. The dome is articulated with geometric decorative brickwork in turquoise and white on an unglazed buff field. Decorative brickwork laid in epigrams covers most wall surfaces within the sanctuary, above a turquoise tile dado with mosaic medallions that continues into the Iwan. The Mihrab is sheathed with naturalistic vegetal designs rendered in remarkable faience mosaic. The winter prayer halls are painted white, contrasting with the vibrant multi-colored sanctuary.

 

Yazd Air-ducts

One of the characteristics of architecture in the city of Yazd is designing houses with air ducts. The air ducts are made of bricks, plaster, and wood. They are made in houses for ventilating.

 

Dolat- Abad Garden

This garden which is one of the famous gardens of the Zand dynasty contains different buildings which were the settlement palaces of the rulers at the time. The Dolat Abad aqueduct supplies water to this garden. There are different kinds of trees like pines, grapes, pomegranate, etc. This is an interesting site to visit for its architecture, setting, and watering system.

 

Narenj Ghaleh Castle

Also called Narin Ghaleh, the castle is located on top of the Galin hill facing the city of Meybod. It is a five-story pre-Islamic castle made of mud and clay.

 

Zeyn Od-Din caravanserai

This caravanserai is located on the road of Yazd to Kerman at a 60 KM distance from Yazd city. This structure has been built t the same time as the Ganj Ali Khan bathhouse in Kerman. This is a round brick structure with five towers.

 

Amir Chakhmagh Mosque

The mosque which is one of the Timurid era structures was built at the order of Amir Jalal Ad-Din Chakhmagh, the ruler of Yazd in the 13th century CE.

 

Historical Attractions:

Ancient and important historical attractions in Yazd province include: Sageneh and Khargushi inns, caravanserais of Hose- Jafar, Valeh- Abad, and old houses are in the city of Ardakan. Ali-Abad caravanserai, old water storages, old castles of Eslamiyeh, Shavaz, and the old garden of Golshan are in the city of Taft. Great tower (Minaret) of Golshan, old citadel and mausoleum of Sepah Salar in the city of Tabass, castles of Khormirz and Saryazd in Mehreez. Water storage of Hassan Abad, castles of Barjin, Rokn Abad, and Narin are in Meybod. Old houses of Lary-Ha, Arabs, Rasolian, Hatters, Malek al-Tojjar, and Asadi, old water storages of Seyed, Sahra, six air vent holes (six Badgir), Khajeh, Golshan, and Rostam, old schools of Khan, Zia’ieyeh, Abolmo’ali, Domana, and Abdul-Rahim Khan, castles of Ibrahim Abad, Zarach and Aez Abad in Yazd.

 

Religious Attractions: 

The most important religious attractions in Yazd Province are the old mosques of Zirdeh, Haji Rajab, Zardak, Muhammad Hossein, Kharanegh, and the Jame’ Mosque in Ardakan. Old mosques of Shodeh, Islamiyah, Bida Khoyed, Tarazjan, Khaneghah (monastery) of Taft. The holy shrine of Tabas, the Jame’ Mosque, and Mehr Padin Mosque in Mehreez, holy shrines of Khadijeh Khatun in Meybod. The Jame’ Mosque, Mir Chomagh Mollah Isma’il, Zaviyeh, Sabat, Four Minaret (Mennar), Mausoleum, of Abu Jafar, Seyed Khalil, twelve Imams, Shah Reza, Seyed Gol Sorkh, Rokn Ad-Din, Shams Ad-Din, and holy Zoroastrian sites in the city of Yazd.

 

Natural Attraction:

The Most Amazing and beautiful natural attractions in Yazd Province are: Caves of Hamaneh, Ashkoft, and Abolghasem Rashti are in Ardakan. The caves of Frashah and B’ad Maesom are in Taft. Natural spring of Gharbalbiz, Gardens of Golkar, Akrami and Sarasiab are in Mehreez. Meybod old Glacier, Gardens of Dowlat Abad, Khan, Kolah Farangi, and Moshir are in Yazd.

West Azerbaijan Province in Iran

 

About West Azerbaijan

West Azerbaijan is located in the northwestern province of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The province has over 3 million people, excluding Lake Urmia, with an area of ​​37411 square kilometers. West Azerbaijan has common water and soil border with three foreign countries: Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iraq. It is located just a few kilometers from the fourth country, Armenia, and in this respect, it is the most unique province of Iran. 

This picturesque province, backed by vast and long-standing historical and peoples of different religions, religions, and ethnicities, including Shiites, Sunnis, Assyrians, Armenians, Turks, and Kurds. It is a symbol of peaceful coexistence in Iran or even coexistence in the world. West Azerbaijan has three major garden products include apple, grape, peach. This province having worldwide recorded historical monuments, including Takht-e-Soleyman and Ghara Church, and being among the top 10 provinces in terms of historical and cultural monuments listed in the National Monuments List.

Land of Apple Gardens

In the northwest of Iran, there is a wonderful land with high mountains bordering Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iraq. From the earliest times of history different tribes of Kurds, Azaris, Assyrians, and Armenians have been living peacefully in this part of the world. This is attested by various churches and fire temples that are extant in the region. The mountains of the province are connected to Ararat Mountain Range in eastern Turkey. These mountainous areas make some of the best resorts in Iran.

Lake Uremia, one of the saltiest lakes of the world, is located in the province and contains many islands which are the habitats of different kinds of local and migrating birds. The people of this province are famous for being hardworking and dignified. Most of them earn their livings through farming and husbandry. Apple gardens have bestowed a unique beauty to this province. The Azari music comes in as many diverse styles as the number of tribes living there. Different kinds of group dance are common among the Kurds and the Azari in which men and women dance together. The handicrafts of the province include carpet, rug, and drugget weaving and woodworks.

Hasanlu Ancient Hill 

The hill has a height of 20 meters and is located 12 km northeast of the town of Naghadeh. Based on archeological researches by Mr. Dyson, the civilization on this hill dates back to the 6th millennium BC. A temple, a gifting platform, and some rooms have been discovered and the most important object which has been found in Hasanlu is a dish that belongs to Mana tribes living 1300-800 BC.

Takht-e Soleyman 

This is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran. It is located near the town of Takab on a hill 20 meters above the plain level. Around the structure, there is a thick wall made of stone and plaster which is 5 meters wide, 14 meters high, and 1200 meters long. The outer part of the wall is made of carved stones and there are 38 funnel-like defensive towers. Inside the castle, there is a lake, the palace of Sassanid King Khosro I, Abaghakhan Palace, and the Azargoshasb temple.

Inscriptions of King Shapur II 

Noruz garden is located in the east of the main square of Salmas town. In the west of this garden, there is a huge stone carving in the Pahlavi language (Middle Persian language). The inscription dates back to the time of King Shapur II and Narseh (Narses) of the Sassanid dynasty in the 3rd-century CE.

Bastam castle 

The ancient castle is located near Bastam Ghara Ziaad-Din village. It contains a temple, a bazaar, a government division, protecting walls, gates, and secret passages. Based on archeological evidence, the castle dates back to the 7th century BC.

Baghcheh Jugh palace 

This palace is located in a large garden with an area of 11 hectares in the town of Maku. The structure dates back to the Qajar era (19th century) and was built at the order of Eqbal os-Saltaneh Makuyi, the region’s ruler of the time. The architectural style is greatly influenced by Russian architecture. This palace has two floors with lots of rooms and a shingle roof. The interior decoration mainly consists of plaster and mirror work. The exterior decoration consists of flat stones with plaster statues. 

Ghara Kelisa 

Saint Taddeus Church is located in Ghara Kelisa village, in one of the regions of Maku town. The church is also the tomb of Saint Taddeus who came from Mesopotamia to the region in 43 A.D. to preach Christianity but was martyred at the hand of the king of Armenia in 66 A.D. The church consists of two white and black pants in a land area of 6285 square meters. The white dome is 24 meters high and the black one is 18.6 meters high. There are 24 abbeys around it with bas-reliefs of human faces, columns, and arches. A ceremony is held every year on the anniversary of Saint Tadi’s martyrdom. The structure was registered in UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008, along with other Armenian Monastic ensembles in Iran.

Lake Urmia 

This is the largest lake in Iran which is 130- 140 km long, 15-50 km wide, and 50-60 meters deep. The water in this lake is too salty for fish or other sea creatures except for a kind of mollusk called Artima. The water of this lake never freezes. Physicians were always aware of the therapeutic effect of Lake Urmia water on skin diseases which is owing to its high level of minerals. This lake also contains 102 large and small deserted islands which are natural habitats of local and migrating birds.

Salmas Waterfall 

This waterfall is located near the city of Sardasht. It is 10 meters high and the green surrounding valleys give it a unique beauty.

Historical Attractions:

Friday-Prayer Mosque of Orumiyeh, Neneh Maryam Church, Margioshouy Church, Kalimian Synagogue, Orumiyeh traditional bazaar, Kalleh Shin tablet, Ghalaichi hill, Takht-e Soleyman, Gharah Kelisa, virgin Mary Castle, Mausoleum of Shams Tabrizi, Matlab Khan Mosque, Bastam stronghold, Baghcheh Jugh Palace, Hameh Mosque of Mahabad, Gur Dakhmeh, Fakhrikah, Hasanlu hill, and so on.

Natural Attraction:

Followings are the main natural attractions of the West Azerbaijan province: Gharah Gol Wetland, Sahulan Cave, Sad Mahabad lake, Agh Gol, Esgh Abad, Gravn Spring of Sardasht, Shelmash, etc.

Tehran Province in Iran

About Tehran Province

Tehran Province is one of the 31 provinces of Iran. Tehran is located to the north of the central plateau of Iran. This province was put as part of the First Region with its secretariat located in its capital city, Tehran, upon the division of the provinces into 5 regions alone for coordination and development purposes. It borders Mazandaran Province in the north, Qom Province in the south, Semnan Province in the east, and Alborz Province in the west. 

The metropolis of Tehran is the capital city of the province and Iran. This Province is the richest province of Iran and it is the most industrialized province in Iran. The province gained importance when Tehran was claimed as the capital by the Qajar dynasty in 1778. 

 

The Heart of Iran

Until 200 years ago on the foothills of the Alborz Mountains, there was a small, mild weather village that a few people had heard of, but this small village was selected as the capital city of the Qajar dynasty in the 18th and 19th centuries. From that time on, the world knew Tehran as the main center of Iranian politics and economy. Since then, many people have immigrated to Tehran and have made it a densely populated city. Although Tehran has been the capital city of Iran for only 200 years, the civilization of this city dates back to 7000 BC.

 

Sa’d Abad Cultural complex

This palace is located in the highest, farthest northern part of Tehran with mild weather conditions. It has an area of 400 hectares, of which 180 hectares have been made into a large garden with different species of flowers and trees. There are 14 buildings in the compound and many recreational facilities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, etc.

 

Golestan Palace

This is one of the most beautiful and oldest structures of Tehran which is the memorial citadel of history and governments. It was built by the order of king Tahmasb I of the Safavid dynasty in the 16th-century CE. It was restored by the order of Karim Khan of the Zand dynasty in the 18th century and the Qajar era was used as the settlement palace of the royal family. It consists of a marble throne, Karim Khani special room, a mirror hall, etc.

 

Museum of Ancient Iran

This museum with an area of 2744 square meters was built in 1935 in two years under the supervision of French architect Andrea Guedar. This is the first scientific museum of Iran and contains objects related to civilization and art of the pre-historic era, from the 6th millennium BC to the Islamic era. It is one of the most valuable and reputable museums in the world.

Museum of Contemporary Arts

The museum is located on north Kargar street next to Laleh Park. The architecture of the building combines traditional and modern styles. This museum, which opened to the public in 1977, has three floors, nine galleries with paintings by Pablo Picasso, Paul Gougen, Cloud Mouneh, and George Berg, a library, and an audio-visual department. In the garden, statues by Marino Marini, Parviz Tanavoli, Rene Margaret, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Max Bell, Alberto Jakoti, etc have been gathered. The museum also holds a large part of the illustrated Shahnameh Tahmasebi.

 

Toghril tower

The structure in Shahr-e Rayy, which has a height of 20 meters, belongs to the Seljuk era. Most probably this tower is the tomb of Toghril I, the founder of the Seljuk dynasty. It was restored in the 18th century after many of its Kufic tablets and designs had been destroyed.

 

Varamin Congregational Mosque

The foundation of this mosque, which is the most important historical structure of the town of Varamin was made during the kingdom of Sultan Mohammad Khodabandeh and was completed during the kingdom of his son, Sultan Abu Saeed in the 12th century CE. It was reconstructed by Shahrokh Mirza, one of the kings of the Timurid era in the 13th century. The mosque consists of an entrance gate, a portal, arches, and the main part and includes decorations like tile work and tablets.

 

Cheshmeh Ali Spring 

The spring is located in the south of Tehran and until 1940 people used it for swimming and washing. The civilization of this area dates back to 4000 BC. There are monuments from the Seljuk, Umavid, Abbasid, and Qajar dynasties there.

 

Oshun-Fasham Districts

These two regions are located 30 and 35 km northeast of Tehran. They have a mild climate with numerous fruit gardens. other villages include Ahar, Shekarab, Lalun, Zaygun, Garmab Darreh, and Meygun which are located within the same region and make perfect weekend resorts.

 

 

Historical Attractions:

Palaces of Saltanat-Abad, Golestan, Sorkheh Hesar, and Saheb-Gharaniyeh. Saltanat Abad, old schools of Dar ul-Fonun, and Marvi in Tehran. Fat’h-Ali-Shah caravanserai in Robat Karim, historical castles of Tabarak, Iraj, towers of Naghareh Khaneh, Toghrol tower, Harun ar-Rashid’s, and Gebri hill are in the city of Rayy. Zoroastrian Cemetery, Wooden bridge, and Shah Caravanserai are in Savejbelagh. Tanghwashi construction in Firuz-Kuh, the Sassanid palace of Soleymaniyeh and Ashkani Takht-e Rostam fire temple in Karaj, tower of Ala Uddowleh in Varamin.

 

Religious Attraction:

The holy shrines of Emamzadeh Davud, Emamzadeh Saleh, Emam Abdullah, Emamzadeh Zayd, and old mosques of Imam Khomeini, Seyed Azizollah, Sepahsalar, and the holy shrine of Imam Khomeini in Tehran. The holy shrine of Hazrat Emamzadeh Abd ul- ’Azim, Mausoleum of Ibn Babevey. The holy shrine of Emamzadeh Hamzeh in the city of Rayy. The holy shrines of Emam Ja’far, Hossiniyeh Joestan, and the house of Ayatollah Taleghani in Savejbelagh. The holy shrine of Emamzadeh Ghasem is in Shemiran. The shrines of Emamzadeh Hashem and Jame’ Mosque are in Firuz-Kuh.

 

Natural Attraction:

Lakes and dams, rivers, springs, waterfalls: Amir Kabir’s lake and dam is in Karaj. Lar lake and dam are in the Lar region in the city of Damavand. Lake Ahang is on the Firuz Kuh road and Lake Ziar on the Haraz road. Karaj, Jajrud, Lar, Habaleh, Abhar, and Taleghan . A’la in Damavand, Ghalae, Dokhtar, and Ab Ali, on the Haraz road, and hot springs of Larijan. Lar, in the La region in Damavand, twins in Shemiranat, Oshun in Darband area, Shakarab in Meygun region, and Yakh-Kooh waterfall in the Damavand that is one of the most famous historical falls in the world.

 

Mountains and Shelters, Ski Resorts, Caves:

Damavand is the highest mountain in Iran and is located in the northeast of Tehran. Tochal Peak in southern slopes of Alborz Mountain, peaks and shelters of Kolak Chal, shelters of Palang Chal, And Shir Pala. Darband–Sar, and Shemshak in the northeast of Tehran, Ab-Ali on the Haraz road, Dizin in Karaj, and Chalus road. Gol-zard, Rud Afshan, in Damavand, Bur-Nik in Damavand and, Firuz-Kuh road ,Yakh– Morad in Tehran Chalus road and Biuk-Agha in Kan Rud.

 

South Khorasan Province in Iran

About South Khorasan Province

South Khorasan Province is located in the east of Iran and is limited to Razavi Khorasan from the north, Sistan and Baluchestan, and Kerman from the south, Yazd, Semnan, and Isfahan from the west, and has about 331 kilometers shared boundaries with Farah state, Afghanistan from the East. The center of the province is Birjand. The other major cities are Ferdows, Tabas, and Qaen. Considering uneven areas, South Khorasan can be divided into two parts: High mountains and plains. Mountains are mostly located in the northern and central regions of the province and the plains are in the south and southwest, next to the Afghanistan border.

 “Nayband” mountain in Tabas with 2980 meter height is the peak of the province while “ Tabas Kavir Dehestan” with a 530-meter height from the sea level is the lowest region. The province climate is desert and dry. The province’s hot period is long. It is started from May and prolong up to September. The cold months are October, November, and December. South Khorasan is also considered to be one of the biggest centers of producing saffron, barberry, jujube, cotton, and pomegranate. This province has a higher potential compared to other provinces in terms of mineral resources. As this area has a special climate, it never tempted invaders a lot to attack it. That’s why the people’s language and race have not been under great changes. Hence, Fars and Farsi have been the dominant race and language, respectively, the formal race and language become untouched. 

 

Land of the Red Gold

In the east of Iran and on the borders of the Lut desert, there is a small province that produces more than 60 percent of the world’s saffron. Other products of the province include barberry and jujube. Southern Khorasan is the land of pure people with white clothes. Their music also reflects their simplicity and serenity.

Saffron

Planting saffron using old traditional methods has been common in this province from ancient times. In addition to its medical and edible uses, Saffron has been used for painting and as ink for writing. It has also been used to illustrate the cover of the Quran as well as writing prayers.

Kolah Farangi Building

The structure is located in Birjand city with an area of 677 square meters on 6 floors and the form of a Ziggurat. Two floors were used for special occasions and the other four were built to shape a decorative form for this building. It dates back to the Zand dynasty in the 17th and 18th centuries CE. The interior decoration includes mainly plasterwork.

Akbarieh Garden

Akbarieh House and Garden are one of the historical buildings in Birjand. This building was built on two floors in the Qajar era by Shokat al-Molk. This garden is at the end of Moallem Street in Akbarieh village in Birjand which is the center of southern Khorasan. With the expansion of Birjand, now the garden is located inside the city. This monument includes a mirror hall, pergola dome, honeycomb Muqarnas decorations, and official schemes that were merely for catering to domestic and foreign political agents.

Khur Village

This village is located 83 km southwest of the town of Birjand in an area called Khusf. The historical architecture of this village has been greatly influenced by the geographical features of this area. The houses are made of mud. Architectural features include domes, central yards, hexagonal rooms with corridors, thick walls, pools, and small gardens.

Nahbandan Desert

The city of Nahbandan, one of the most beautiful cities of southern Khorasan, is located in the Lut desert in the south of the city of Birjand. One of the most wonderful sites of the city is Dehsalam village, on the road of Kerman to Sistan in the southwest of the city of Nahbandan. Although this village is located in the desert, there is a thick vegetation and lots of palm-tree gardens which have increased the beauty of this region.

 

Jujube Tree

As the south Khorasan borders the desert with hot and dry weather conditions, there is a special kind of vegetation, proper for this region. Jujube trees can perfectly adapt to the environment of this region. It uses little water and has got green leaves during five months of the year, in spring and summer. The small red fruits which have medical usages are picked in September. These trees are found mostly in the eastern parts of the province.

 

Khezri Stone Bridge and Farsan Cave

Farsan stone bridge is located in the 62-kilometer distance of Qayen town, the 12-kilometer distance of the north of Khezri town, and in the 2-kilometer distance of the east of Saquri village. In terms of leisure, this promenade has a very suitable condition.  Stone bridge with 30 meters of length and a 20-meter height alongside several other small and large caves is the shelter of birds of prey, especially wild dove.

Abbasi Dam

Shah Abbasi Taq has the highest record among the historical buildings in Iran! A dam with 60 meters’ height that not only is called the oldest and greatest arch dam in the world but also has been known for 550 years as the highest dam in the world. However, Shah Abbasi Dam has another name that no other dam has ever been able to gain. The thinnest dam in the world is due to the one-meter dam crest.

 

Morteza Ali Hot Spring

To visit this amazing place, it must pass Tabas City and 5 more kilometers on foot most of which passes through water to reach Morteza Ali Fountain! There are high valley-shaped walls on both sides, on which there are small and big cavities in a specific order. Some of these cavities are hot springs of water, the greatest of which is known as Morteza Ali Bath. The first spring called Ghanbar flows from the east to west (following the slope of the valley) and it is cold. Having passed 6 kilometers, Morteza Ali Fountain appears. The cause of hot water is fracture and pressure in the faults.