travel to iran mashhad

A Comprehensive Guide to Iran’s Spiritual Jewel

About Mashhad

Mashhad, the second biggest city in Iran, is a place where old and new, tradition and innovation, faith and progress all come together. The Holy Shrine of Imam Reza is a standout attraction, but there’s more to this city that reflects love and connections with nature and life. Mashhad is a key city in Iran as an ancient country. It has stood strong over time, witnessing many years of history. The city holds significant places like mosques, mausoleums, and monuments, marking crucial moments in Iran’s rich history and culture. In the tapestry of Iran’s heritage, Mashhad emerges as a pivotal city, its roots intertwined with the ancient soil. Standing resilient through the passage of time, Mashhad bears witness to the ebb and flow of history. Within its boundaries, echoes of the past reverberate through important mosques, solemn mausoleums, and majestic monuments. These landmarks not only shape the city’s skyline but also encapsulate the essence of Iran’s profound history and cultural tapestry. Mashhad stands as a living testament to the vibrant threads that weave together the story of Iran’s enduring legacy. Come along on this blog journey to discover the wonderful city of Mashhad, with its impressive charm and captivating beauty. Let’s explore the religious sites, soaking in the profound aura of faith. Wander through lively bazaars, experiencing the vibrant energy that has persisted for millennia. Delve into the history and culture by visiting monuments and tombs of some of Iran’s greatest figures. And don’t miss the chance to embrace peace and serenity in the breathtaking nature that envelops this city.

Pilgrim's Paradise: The Sacred Sanctuaries of Mashhad

Mashhad is a city that holds great significance for Muslims globally, hosting some of the most crucial mosques. It serves as the final resting place for key Islamic religious figures, making it a sacred hub of faith and pilgrimage. Throughout the years, Iranians have continually enriched these mosques with additional architectural marvels and meaningful artifacts. This ongoing process reflects their deep devotion and heartfelt tribute to the revered religious figures. The culmination of these efforts is beautifully evident in the Holy Shrines that grace the city, embodying a rich tapestry of faith, history, and architectural splendor.

You can read more about Iran’s mosques in our blog dedicated to them as well, Iran Religious Siites: the Beauty of the Mosques.

Imam Reza Holy Shrine

Welcome to the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, Iran! This special place is home to the mausoleum of Imam Reza, also known as Ali al-Rida or Ali al-Ridha, the eighth Imam of Twelver Shias. It’s not just any mosque – it’s actually the largest mosque in the world! But that’s not all. Inside this amazing complex, you’ll find the Goharshad Mosque, a museum, a library, four seminaries, a cemetery, the Razavi University of Islamic Sciences, a dining hall for pilgrims, spacious prayer halls, and more. People from all over the world come to visit this incredible site, making it a hub for tourism in Iran. In fact, it’s often referred to as “the heart of Shia Iran.” Imagine, millions of Iranian and non-Iranian Shias visit the shrine every year – that’s a lot of people! Now, let’s talk about the shrine itself. It’s huge, covering an area of 267,079 square meters. And if you add up the seven courtyards around it, that’s an additional 331,578 square meters. So, in total, we’re talking about a whopping 598,657 square meters of spiritual space! The Imam Reza Holy Shrine holds a special place as a UNESCO World Heritage site, signifying its global significance. The UNESCO recognition acknowledges not only the spiritual value of the site but also its architectural and cultural significance. The Imam Reza Holy Shrine stands as a testament to the rich heritage of Islam, fostering an environment of peace, reflection, and unity for all those who come to experience its profound atmosphere. And here’s something special – every year, there’s a ceremony called Dust Clearing celebrated right here at the Imam Reza shrine. It’s a truly unique and meaningful experience. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, this place welcomes you with open arms for a journey of discovery and spiritual connection.

Goharshad Mosque

Step into the fascinating history of Goharshad Mosque, a majestic place of worship from the Timurid period in Mashhad, Iran! Built in 1418 CE, it’s not just any mosque—it’s a vital part of the Imam Reza shrine complex. It was commissioned by Empress Goharshad, the wife of Shah Rukh from the Timurid dynasty. The brilliant architect Ghavameddin Shirazi crafted this masterpiece, bringing in skilled hands from Shiraz and Isfahan.

Over the years, the mosque has seen some changes during the Safavid and Qajar eras. It boasts four iwans, a spacious courtyard, and shabestans (saloons). As you explore, you’ll find inscriptions that honor Safavid kings like Shah Abbas and Shah Soltan Hussayn, highlighting their devotion and contributions to the mosque.

The mosque’s double-layered dome faced challenges, including damage from bombings in 1911 and structural concerns in the 1960s. To ensure safety, a new shell was built with an iron frame, and the dome was carefully re-tiled, preserving its original charm. While these repairs were essential, they did bring some changes to the mosque’s historic identity.

In the 1960s, the eastern iwan underwent restoration, maintaining its aesthetic style. Fast forward to 1979—the Shrine complex expanded, adding a new courtyard named “Sahn-e-Qods” to the back side of Goharshad Mosque, where the historic bazaar once stood. Yet, the mosque beautifully showcases the blend of art and faith, surely worth a visit!

Shopper's Delight: Navigating Mashhad's Bazaars and Markets

Mashhad, with its rich history as an old eastern town, is renowned for its vibrant bazaars, making a shopping stroll through the city a truly unique experience that blends tradition with modernity. The city’s historic passages house splendid traditional bazaars, including Reza Bazaar and Goharshad Bazaar, located right beside the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza. These bazaars have been welcoming people for generations, providing a space for locals to purchase daily essentials and offering a treasure trove of souvenirs and artifacts for tourists and pilgrims.

But the charm of Mashhad doesn’t end there – there are more traditional bazaars waiting to be explored. Amin Bazaar, Mowlavi Bazaar, Ghostantanieh Bazaar, and Chahrsoogh Kooh Sangi are among the hidden gems that offer an enjoyable pastime, a delightful sightseeing experience, and an amazing shopping adventure.

Embracing modernity, Mashhad also boasts contemporary shopping malls with high-end products. Mehr Shopping Center, Tandis Shopping Center, Armitage Shopping Center, Alton Shopping Center, and many others cater to those seeking a more modern and upscale shopping experience. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional charm of historic bazaars or the sophistication of modern shopping centers, Mashhad has something for every shopper to explore and enjoy.

Mashhad Tours: Exploring Mashhad's Artistic Tapestry: Museums, Galleries, and a Vibrant Cultural Scene

One of the captivating aspects of Mashhad’s artistic landscape is the diversity found in its museums. These cultural institutions house a variety of exhibits that span different periods, styles, and artistic genres. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the city’s artistic heritage, gaining insights into the evolution of art in Mashhad over the years.

Among the many cultural venues, galleries play a pivotal role in fostering local talent and serving as a space for emerging artists to display their work. These galleries contribute to the dynamic art scene by providing a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captivates residents and visitors alike.

Art enthusiasts can embark on a journey through Mashhad’s museums and galleries, immersing themselves in the beauty and creativity that the city has to offer. Whether it’s traditional or contemporary art, these cultural spaces provide a window into the artistic soul of Mashhad, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking inspiration and cultural enrichment.

Discovering Comfort: Best Hotels in Mashhad

Mashhad, being one of Iran’s top tourist destinations, offers a diverse range of hotels to cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re seeking luxury or economical accommodation, Mashhad has options to enhance your overall experience and make the most of the city’s numerous attractions. Let’s explore some of the noteworthy hotels that contribute to the city’s hospitality.

Darvishi Hotel, Pars International Hotel, Ghasr Talaee Hotel, Homa Hotel, and Roshan Riviera are among the variety of hotels available in Mashhad. These establishments are designed to provide visitors with comfortable and enjoyable stays, ensuring that each guest has a memorable experience in this vibrant city.

For those looking for proximity to the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza, several hotels stand out, creating an ideal setting for a perfect pilgrimage. Mashhad Grand Hotel, Darvishi Hotel, and Ghasr Talaee Hotel are strategically located near the Holy Shrine, allowing pilgrims easy access to this sacred site. Staying in these hotels not only provides convenience but also enhances the spiritual journey for those visiting the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza.

Mashhad’s hotel offerings go beyond just providing accommodation—they play a crucial role in shaping the overall travel experience. Whether you prefer the opulence of a luxury hotel or the simplicity of an economic option, Mashhad ensures that visitors have a range of choices, allowing them to tailor their stay to their individual needs and preferences. So, when planning your visit to Mashhad, consider the diverse hotel options available to make your stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

Mashhad Attraction Sites: : A Journey Through Historical Capitals, Poetic Tombs, and Architectural Marvels

Mashhad, over the years, has held significant roles as a capital city in different historical periods. During the Abbasid Caliphate, this city witnessed crucial events in Islamic history, marking the beginnings of the holy shrine of Imam Reza—a place that expanded and grew in importance across time. In the Afsharid dynasty, Mashhad became the capital of Iran, experiencing a period of immense grandeur and splendor. Nader Shah Afshar, the influential ruler of the dynasty, brought treasures and built a rich history here. His mausoleum and museum stand tall as crucial landmarks of the city, beckoning visitors to explore their significance.

Moreover, Mashhad is home to the final resting place of one of Iran’s most important poets, Ferdowsi. The captivating garden and splendid tomb beautifully showcase the craftsmanship of Iranian architects, offering a glimpse into their artistry.

The Darougheh historical house is another remarkable site in Mashhad. Constructed under the command of Yousof Khan Harati, supervisor of Russian engineers during the late Qajar era, this building represents a captivating blend of Iranian and Russian architectural styles from that period.

As one of Iran’s oldest cities, Mashhad holds an ancient fire temple known as Baze Hoor fire temple. Situated 70 kilometers southwest of Mashhad, this temple dates back to the Safavid era and was a significant Zoroastrian religious site. The temple’s name, meaning “the valley of the sun,” reflects its historical position and significance. It’s a fascinating visit, especially for those intrigued by ancient religions and historic monuments, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

In addition to its rich history and cultural significance, Mashhad offers a lively and vibrant art scene for those with an interest in the creative world. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, providing a platform to showcase renowned works of art.

Natural sites in Mashhad: Recreational Gems and Cultural Marvels in Mashhad

Mashhad’s climate and stunning natural scenery, makes it an ideal recreational haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty and grandeur.

One of the primary attractions is Mellat Park, located west of Mashhad and renowned as the city’s largest park. Mellat Park boasts an array of amenities, including sanitation facilities, a mosque, a theme park, sports fields, a library, and a swimming pool. Visitors of all ages can indulge in various entertainment offerings, such as roller coasters, a train, Iran’s largest gyro swing, and a magnificent Ferris wheel standing at 80 meters tall with 56 cabins offering panoramic views, including the sighting of Imam Reza Haram from its apex.

Another noteworthy stop is Koohsangi, a significant park complex in Mashhad and the second-largest recreational area after Mellat Park. Initially established in 1961, this park has historical significance, being connected to Mashhad railway station and holding materials used in the tomb of Nader Afshar, sourced from the hard granite stones of Koohsangi. Additionally, the Great Krason Museum, designed by Dariush Mirfendereski in 1977 and based on the architecture of Kalat Nader Palace, adorns this area, adding to its allure.

Vakilabad is a lovely natural park in Mashhad, serving as one of the city’s oldest and most cherished recreational areas. This picturesque valley is situated in the southwest part of the city, offering visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by the beauty of pure nature.

The park holds a special place in the hearts of Mashhad residents, who have enjoyed its serene ambiance for many years. Vakilabad provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting people to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

As you explore Vakilabad, you’ll find lush greenery, winding pathways, and a sense of calm that makes it a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing day outdoors. The park’s rich natural beauty and its role as a historic recreational spot make it an ideal place for both locals and visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor life.

Whether you’re seeking a quiet moment of reflection, a family picnic, or a refreshing nature walk, Vakilabad offers a rejuvenating experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a peaceful escape in the heart of Mashhad.

Not far from Mashhad lies the renowned Torghabeh and Shandiz county, known for its serene natural landscapes and famous Iranian cuisines, especially their delectable kebabs. These areas offer a scenic retreat and an opportunity to savor delicious local dishes amidst nature’s splendor, adding a flavorful touch to the region’s attractions.

Foods to try in Mashhad: A Culinary Expedition into the Heart of Iranian Delicacies

Exploring a city is not complete without savoring its unique cuisine, and Mashhad, in Iran, has a delightful array of delicious foods that are a must-try for visitors.

First and foremost, let’s talk about Kabab—a renowned Iranian dish that takes center stage in the culinary scene of Mashhad. The city, particularly in Torghabeh and Shandiz, is famous for preparing some of the most delicious Kababs, making it a favorite not just in Mashhad but throughout the country.

Now, let’s dive into another local delight, Shole Mashhadi. This popular dish is a specialty of Mashhad, as indicated by its name, which includes “Mashhadi,” signifying its origin from the city. Shole Mashhadi is a hearty stew crafted from a combination of meat and pulses. In appearance, it bears similarities to Persian Halim. Traditionally, this dish is prepared during special occasions, including weddings and, notably, during Moharram. It holds a special place in the hearts of Mashhad locals, who deeply appreciate the flavors and traditions associated with this dish.

Exploring the culinary delights of Mashhad offers a journey into the city’s cultural and gastronomic identity. From the savory Kababs to the heartwarming Shole Mashhadi, these dishes provide a taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage, making each bite a memorable experience for those fortunate enough to indulge in Mashhad’s unique flavors.

Sensory Delights and Treasures: Exploring Mashhad's Bazaars and Unique Souvenirs

Exploring the bazaars in Mashhad becomes even more fascinating when you know about the incredible souvenirs and treasures the city holds. Iran is famous for its unique artifacts in each city, and Mashhad is no different. Let’s delve into what makes Mashhad’s souvenirs special.

First up, there’s saffron. Mashhad takes pride in being the saffron capital of Iran, the largest producer of this vibrant spice globally. Here, you’ll find some of the finest saffron and saffron-related products that are not just special but also widely used in Iranian desserts and dishes, adding that unique touch to the cuisine. 

If you like to know more about this excuisitive spice, dive into the blog dedicated to it by the name of Saffron; the Red Gold of Iran . 

Then, there are the high-quality barberries. These tangy fruits, available both dried and fresh, are a must-buy from Mashhad’s bazaars. They bring a delightful twist to cuisines, desserts, and even beverages. And don’t miss the variety of top-notch dried fruits and nuts—Mashhad’s bazaars are a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored.

Among the array of souvenirs, gemstones, jewelry, perfumes, and attars stand out. In both the modern and traditional bazaars, you’ll discover exquisite designs and top-quality products. Whether it’s admiring the craftsmanship behind unique jewelry or diving into the fragrant world of perfumes, Mashhad offers a sensory treat for visitors.

Weaving has deep roots in Mashhad, evident in the stunning traditional garments and handwoven rugs and carpets. Iranian carpets are legendary, and Mashhad contributes significantly to this tradition. The old bazaars display mesmerizing patterns and vibrant colors woven into magnificent carpets, rugs, and garments.

The bazaars also boast exquisite copperware and ceramics. Artisans have poured their creativity into crafting various objects that reflect the beauty and artistry of Mashhad’s heart.

Iran has a long history with thousands of years of culture and art, and it provides each city with its own handicrafts and souvenirs. You can read more about them in Best Handicrafts of Iran: Souvenirs from the Past .

Taking a stroll through Mashhad’s bazaars is more than just shopping—it’s a journey through the culture and artistry that has evolved and thrived throughout the years. The intricate crafts, flavors, and scents woven into the city’s treasures tell stories of tradition and excellence.

Mashhad Travel Guide

Welcome to Mashhad , the second-largest and the holiest city of Iran, the home to Imam Reza Holy Shrine. Here is an ultimate Mashhad travel guide where you can find all essential information about how to travel to Mashhad and what to do in this must-see Iran destination.

Mashhad at a Glance

Houses Imam Reza Holy Shrine

Houses Imam Reza Holy Shrine, the most sacred place in Iran for Muslims

Capital of Razavi Khorasan

The capital of Razavi Khorasan Province situated in the northeast of Iran

Mashhad Population

the second-largest city in Iran and the home to over 3 million inhabitants

Tourist & Pilgrim

Hosts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year

Famous for its saffron and turquoise stone

Located on the ancient Silk Road

Famous for its numerous water parks

Mashhad Altitude

With the altitude of about 995 m above sea level

Medical Tourism

Major pole of Iran medical tourism

Where is Mashhad?

Mashhad is the Razavi Khorasan Province Capital located in the northeast of Iran and in the vicinity of North Khorasan, South Khorasan, and Semnan Provinces. Also, Mashhad lies between the two mountain ranges of Hezar Masjed and Binalood. Furthermore, the flying distance between Mashhad and Tehran is equal to 736 km, while its land distance  is about 891 km.

Mashhad History

Getting information about the destination’s history, especially a historic destination like Iran, is essential for every tourist. Hence, in this Mashhad Travel Guide, we present a brief introduction to Mashhad History.

Mashhad formerly was known as Sanabad village, a stop-over on the Silk Road for trade caravans coming from or heading to Turkmenistan. Afterward, it was renamed to “Mashhad” during the Safavid Era. Notably, the word “Mashhad” means “the place of martyrdom.” Accordingly, this city has got this name because Imam Reza, the eighth Imam of Shia, killed by Al-Mamun Abbasi in 202 AH, was buried in this town.

Furthermore, Mashhad got its glory during the Afsharid Dynasty, which during that period (1736 to 1747) it became the capital of Iran. Nowadays, the city is the holiest pilgrimage city in Iran. Furthermore, as it was the major oasis on the Silk Road, Mashhad houses many Iran historical monuments.

Interestingly, Mashhad sister cities are Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lahore in Pakistan.

Where to Stay in Mashhad?

How to get to mashhad.

As Mashhad is the most important pilgrimage city in Iran, there are several ways to get to Mashhad. Hence, in this Mashhad Travel Guide, we introduce you to different ways to get to Mashhad.

You can enter Mashhad through Shahid Hashemi Nejad Airport. This airport covers several international flights from different countries and foreign cities such as Herat, Mazar Sharif, Dubai, Kuwait, Najaf, Beirut, Basrah, India, Doha, Muscat, Lahore and Istanbul, and more. And the foreign airlines which have flights to Mashhad International Airport are Qatar Airways, Turkish Airline, Emirates, Air Arabia, Fly Bagdad, Fly Dubai, etc. Please mention that with these airlines you can have connection flights from Mashhad to all over the world and vice versa.

On the other hand, Mashhad connects to all cities in Iran that have airports. Accordingly, there are many domestic flights between Mashhad and other Iran destinations every day. Among these flight paths, the routes from Mashhad to Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, Kerman, Qeshm Island, Kish Island, Bandar Abbas, Ahvaz, and Rasht are highly demanded by tourists. Notably, the flight duration between Mashhad and Tehran, the capital of Iran, is about 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Finally, note that Mashhad International Airport, located 8 kilometers south of the city center, has convenient access to the city important parts and the Imam Reza Shrine. Accordingly, you can use a taxi, metro or bus to reach the airport. For your record, an internet taxi costs about 300000 rials from the city center to Mashhad airport.

Travel to Mashhad by Plane

The most economical way to travel to Mashhad is by using a bus. You can get to Mashhad from almost anywhere in Iran on a bus. However, although riding a train is the safest option, many passengers choose the bus because it is faster, and there are plenty of VIP buses from different parts of Iran to Mashhad. Notably, you can choose the night bus between Mashhad and other cities to decrease your travel expenses.

Moreover, there are several bus terminals in Mashhad. The major ones are Imam Reza Bus Terminal, Meraj Bus Terminal, and Rah-e Abrisham Bus Terminal, located not far from the city center. Mainly, there are plenty of buses that arrive in/depart Imam Reza Bus Terminal from/to all Iran cities from early in the morning until midnight. On the other hand, Meraj Bus Terminal and Rah-e Abrisham Bus Terminal are dedicated to the travels between Mashhad and the nearby towns. As Tehran-Mashhad is the most common route, there are several buses in different classes daily. Notably, you can reach Imam Reza Bus Terminal by taxi, metro, or bus.

Travel to Mashhad by Bus

You can travel to Mashhad from Iran main cities by train in different classes from the standard class to a 5-star one. The Mashhad train covers the routes to Tehran, Qom, Isfahan, Yazd, Tabriz, Ahvaz, Kerman, Bandar Abbas, Rasht, etc. Please note that the train journey between Mashhad and Tehran takes about 11 hours. Notably, you can choose the night train between Mashhad and other cities to decrease your travel expenses.

Finally, Mashhad railway station is located about 4 kilometers north of Imam Reza Holy Shrine. Accordingly, in the best possible conditions, you can reach the shrine less than 10 minutes by taxi.

Travel to Mashhad By Train

Main motorways and highways connect Mashhad to all parts of Iran. So, many passengers choose to travel in a private car as its schedule is flexible and is faster and more convenient than bus and train.

Travel to Mashhad By Car

What do you know about mashhad attractions, how to move around mashhad.

Although most of the pilgrims prefer to stay in a place that has easy access to Imam Raza Shrine, Mashhad has more points of interest to offer. So, the information about transportation in Mashhad is essential for every tourist. Hence, in this Mashhad Travel Guide, we introduce you to different ways to move around Mashhad. In any case, you can rent a private car with a driver, use taxis or public transports such as buses or the metro.

Get around Mashhad in Taxi

You can use an internet Taxi called Snapp and TAPSI. These kinds of Taxis work like Uber. You can download the application on your phone and easily take an internet taxi within a few minutes wherever you are. Also, you can pay the taxi fee in cash (Rials).

Another option is to get a taxi through a “telephone taxi agency.” These taxis will get you to the destination and also wait for you whenever you want. To get this kind of taxi, you can ask your hotel reception or your Iranian friend to do it for you.

Get around Mashhad in Metro

There are also metro lines in Mashhad, which takes you to the Imam Raza Shrine, tourist attractions Imam Reza Bus Terminal, Mashhad International Airport, Mashhad Railway Station. Notably, the metro system of Mashhad is fast and convenient.

Get around Mashhad in Bus

Although the bus system covers all Mashhad parts, the bus stations are sometimes confusing for a foreign traveler. However, you can get complete information about your destination station and the bus that you should get from the locals and use this kind of transportation. Also, you can use the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) in most parts of Mashhad. Notably, there are separate men’s and ladies’ sections on each bus.

Get around Mashhad in Private Car with Driver

Although renting a private car with a driver is the most expensive option to get around Mashhad, it is the fastest and most convenient choice. Besides, you can rent a car with a driver for one day to go to the tourist attractions that are located around Mashhad, such as Torghabeh, Shandiz, Tus Village, and more. The expense of renting a private sedan car with a driver per day starts about 3000000 rials.

What to Eat in Mashhad?

Where to eat in mashhad best restaurants in mashhad.

In recent years, visiting restaurants and tasting different foods have become one of the most attractive activities during a trip. It is interesting to know that this issue has been taken very seriously in Iran and you can find excellent and even international restaurants in the cities of this country. However, you are in Iran for a short time, and it is better to go for the best options in this limited time.

 Accordingly, selecting a good restaurant in Mashhad, where there are restaurants on every corner, is very difficult. So, if you want to taste delicious and quality food in the best restaurants in Mashhad during your trip, join us in this Mashhad travel guide.

Moein Darbari Restaurant

One of the old and very well-known restaurants in Mashhad is Moein Darbari Restaurant. The style of this restaurant is quite traditional, and its walls and ceiling are entirely mirrored. The most famous dish of Moein Darbari restaurant is Shishlik, which we suggest you try.

Pesaran-e Karim Restaurant

One of the old and famous restaurants in Mashhad is Pesaran-e Karim Restaurant. The quality of the food in this traditional restaurant is unparalleled, and at the same time, it has a reasonable price. Pesaran-e Karim Restaurant has three branches in Mashhad city on Sajad Boulevard, Khayam Boulevard, and Daneshgah Street. Finally, The most popular food of this Restaurant is “Chelo Mahiche,” which has a unique taste.

Padideh Shandiz Restaurant

Padideh Shandiz Restaurant, located in the mountainous and beautiful region of Shandiz, is one of the oldest and most popular restaurants in Mashhad. Actually, Padideh Shandiz Restaurant consists of three restaurants, including an international restaurant, a buffet restaurant, and the summer restaurant. Moreover, a bird garden in this complex has created an attractive atmosphere in this restaurant.

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Mashhad, Iran 2024: A Comprehensive Guide of the Holy City

Table of Contents

Mashhad in a glance.

In the northeast of Iran, Mashhad stands out as the second-biggest city and the capital of Razavi Khorasan Province. Long ago, it played a crucial role as a vital stop on the Silk Road, connecting with Merv to the east. The city is not just a busy city; it’s a spiritual center for Iranians.

The reason? The tomb of Imam Reza, the 8th Imam of Shia Muslims, is right here. So, beyond the crowded streets and historic routes, the city, as one of the top religious destinations in Iran , holds a special place in the hearts of those seeking a deeper connection to faith and history.

History of Mashhad

Mashhad, once a quiet village called Sanabad, went through some interesting changes in its history. At first, it wasn’t as well-known as the nearby city of Tus, where important people like Harun al-Rashd and Ali al-Rida were buried. As time went on, the city started to step out of Tus’ shadow and create its own story. The name “place of martyrdom” came about because people believed that Ali al-Rida was poisoned. The term “Al-Mashhad al-Ridawi” became more common in the late 10th century and caught on after Ṭus was devastated by the Mongols in 1389.

The city faced challenges, like invasions and raids, but it showed a lot of strength in dealing with tough times. In the 20th century, things changed a lot under the rule of the Pahlavi family, especially when Reza Shah Pahlavi was in charge. Some policies against religious leaders and plans to renew the city made a big impact. Even with all these changes, the city stands strong as a symbol of resilience and flexibility. Its importance in Iranian history and culture continues to unfold as the city changes over time.

Mashhad Meaning

Mashhad gets its name from Arabic, where it means “martyrium,” pointing to something related to martyrdom. But it’s not just a fancy word – it reflects the heart of the city. The city is a special place because it’s where Ali ar-Ridha, also known as Imam Reza, the eighth Imam of Shia Muslims, is said to have passed away. For Shia believers, it was more than just a regular passing; it’s considered a martyrdom. So, when you hear “Mashhad,” you’re not just hearing a name – you’re connecting with a city that holds a deep, spiritual story tied to sacrifice.

Mashhad Geological Characteristics

Mashhad sits between two mountain ranges along the Kashaf River valley. The city’s water comes from underground canals in the mountains. Earthquakes have affected the city, like in Qayen (1997) and Bam (2008). The city has a circular layout, with religious sites at its center, and streets going out to about 12 neighborhoods. Unlike other cities, Mashhad’s heart is a shrine, where Ali al-Riḍa is buried. The city mix of mosques, bast areas, seminaries, and bazaars forms the ḥaram, a holy place.

In recent years, the city has become a big city, blending modernity with its religious roots. The shrine owns a lot of land, impacting a major renewal project before the 1978–79 revolution. In the city, the geological features blend with spiritual significance, creating a unique cityscape where history and today come together.

Mashhad Weather/Climate

Mashhad experiences a mixed bag of weather throughout the year. Winters bring cool temperatures, ranging from 25–30 °F in December and January. Springs and autumns are milder, with temperatures fluctuating between 35–55 °F and 60–80 °F, respectively. Summer, particularly in July, turns up the heat, with lows of 65 °F and highs of 95 °F.

Humidity plays its part too, reaching around 30 percent in the dry summer but spiking to 75 percent in the moister winter months. Overall, the city gets about 10 inches of precipitation annually, including rain, snow, and sleet. The city’s climate, with its seasonal contrasts, creates a captivating story told by the changing elements.

Top Places to See in Mashhad

In the eastern reaches of Iran, Mashhad stands as a dynamic testament to the nation’s cultural richness and fascination, captivating both local and international travelers. From the serene courtyards of its historical mosques to the bustling bazaars, the city promises an immersive journey into the heart of Persian magnificence. Here are some of the top things to do in Mashhad:

Imam Reza Holy Shrine

Situated in Mashhad, Iran, the Imam Reza Holy Shrine is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. It’s known as the top-notch design in the Islamic world and serves as the resting place for the 8th Shiite Imam. Besides being a spiritual spot for pilgrims, the shrine also impresses with its beautiful design, attracting people from Iran and beyond.

This special place unfolds in different courtyards, decorated with pretty tiles and designs that catch the eye of every visitor. Pilgrims find peace and beauty in every corner of the shrine, making it not just a religious site but also a showcase of excellent Islamic architecture.

Kooh Sangi Park

In the southwest of Mashhad, Iran, Kooh Sangi Park claims its spot as the city’s second-largest park, following Mellat Park. Found at the end of Koh Sangi Street, this park is uniquely set against the backdrop of tall mountains. Among the city’s oldest and most loved hangout spots, Kooh Sangi Park proudly stands as one of Iran’s most beautiful parks, combining water, stone, greenery, and light for a refreshing experience.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of landscapes in this natural getaway, offering a calm atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists alike. With its soothing waters, enduring stones, and lush greenery, the park showcases the diverse beauty of Iran’s natural scenery, making it a perfect destination for those in search of a tranquil escape surrounded by nature.

Darougheh Historical House

In Mashhad, the Darougheh Historical House is a fascinating glimpse into Iran’s past, making it a must-visit spot for tourists. This unique house showcases a blend of Iranian and Russian architecture, creating a visually striking structure.

Built during the Qajar period, the historical house covers an area of 1100 square meters and sits about 75 cm lower than the street level, giving it an interesting touch. The courtyard of Darougheh House features a charming pond and two small gardens, providing a peaceful and appealing environment for visitors to enjoy.

Mellat Park

Mellat Park is a well-loved spot in the city, known for being one of the city’s oldest and most spacious parks. Covering a massive 720,000 square meters (equivalent to 72 hectares), the park is home to over 35,000 mature trees, creating a peaceful and green atmosphere. To add to its charm, there’s a lovely lake on the eastern side of the park, offering a scenic spot to unwind.

What makes Mellat Park even more special is the Mellat amusement park within its grounds. This area is famous for its modern play equipment and a fun merry-go-round, making it a popular choice for families and visitors of all ages. Mellat Park isn’t just a green escape – it’s a versatile destination for relaxation and entertainment in Mashhad, Iran.

Water Waves Land

A must-see spot in Mashhad, Water Waves Land opened its doors in 2006 as Iran’s very first water park. Back then, it proudly held the title of the biggest indoor water park not just in Iran but across the Middle East. With a spacious area of eight thousand and 500 square meters, this aquatic haven has separate sections for both men and women.

Beyond being a local favorite, Water Waves Land is recognized as one of the best water parks in Iran and around the world. Packed with various facilities, it’s the perfect place for families and water lovers in the city, offering a cool and enjoyable escape from the everyday hustle.

Shopping and the Best Souvenirs to Buy: Mashhad Travel Guide

Mashhad souvenirs are a showcase of skill and tradition. From handmade stuff that reflects the city’s history to vibrant carpets weaving tales of tradition, these keepsakes are more than just gifts. They are bits of the city’s heart, adding a touch of Persian artistry to any home.

Saffron is like the gold of Iran and the number one souvenir in Mashhad. People from all around like it because it’s super special. Other places like Italy, Spain, and America grow saffron too, but the one from Iran is the best. They even call it “red gold,” and tourists don’t mind spending a lot to take a little bit home. Iran is the boss in making saffron and feels proud to share it with the world.

Guess what? Saffron grows everywhere in Iran, but it’s super awesome in Mashhad, in the Khorasan Province. The city is like the saffron capital, making half of all the saffron in Iran. So, when you think about souvenirs from Mashhad, saffron is the coolest thing, everyone loves it!

Neyshabur Turquoise

Near Neyshabur in Khorasan Razavi province, there are old mines that have been giving us turquoise for more than 2000 years. That’s a super long time! People in Neyshabur are good at carving turquoise, and they’ve been doing it for ages.

This skill has traveled to Mashhad too. Artists use turquoise in different ways, making cool stuff like ornaments, dishes, paintings, and rosaries. You can buy this stone as it is or shape the way you like. It’s like having a piece of history in your hands!

Mashhad Carpet

Mashhad is famous for making fancy carpets, and they are super cool. As one of the best Persian carpets , these carpets have big flowers on them, and they’re made using soft wool and cotton threads. If you want to buy one, the best place is the Mashhad carpet market. There, you’ll find lots of different carpets to choose from, each telling a unique story about the city.

Here’s a fun fact: the biggest Mashhad carpet is in Tehran at the Mellat Palace in the Saad Abad complex. It’s huge and looks amazing! And if you’re into super fancy carpets, you should check out the Astan Qods Razavi Carpet Museum. It’s like a fancy treasure chest full of these cool carpets, giving you a peek into the awesome art and history of Mashhad.

Mashhad Leather

If you want the best leather stuff in our country, you’ve got to check out Khorasan Razavi – it’s like the superhero of leather-making places. The big shots in the Iranian leather world? Well, they call this city home, especially Mashhad and Charmiran. These guys are the coolest brands in the leather game, and you’ll spot their shops all over Iran.

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But here’s the fun part: if you’re hanging out in the city, you’re in for a treat. The city is packed with stores from Mashhad and Charmiran, showing off all their amazing leather stuff. Bags, shoes, you name it – they’ve got everything. It’s like a leather wonderland right there in Khorasan Razavi. So, if you happen to be in this city, make sure to peek into these awesome stores and grab yourself some genuinely cool Iranian leather goods.

In this city, the air is filled with different kinds of awesome perfumes. You can catch a whiff of tuberose, sour orange flowers, ice flowers, jasmine, fruity fragrances, and Sea-buckthorn flowers – it’s like a perfume party for your nose! The city turns making perfumes into an art, capturing the smells of beautiful flowers.

Now, when it comes to the super-best ones, check out Shrine, Mohammad, and Jasmine. These perfumes are like Mashhad’s VIPs, and each one has a special story in every spray. Whether you like flowery scents or something fruity, Mashhad’s perfumes have a bunch of smells waiting to make you feel all fancy and nice.

Nightlife in Mashhad

Looking beyond Mashhad’s religious side, the city has a nightlife that goes beyond just spiritual stuff. There’s more to it than you might think! Here are two most popular examples:

Beyond the religious reputation, the city’s nightlife offers more than just spiritual experiences. One fascinating spot to explore at night is the Imam Reza Holy Shrine. This massive complex, always open, is the biggest and most important religious site in Iran and the Shia world. Its stunning Persian-Islamic architecture shines at night, away from the daytime crowds. Even if the museums and libraries close after sunset, you can still enjoy the beauty of the shrine, no matter your religious beliefs.

For a different kind of nighttime adventure, Mashhad boasts Iran’s best aqua parks. Surprisingly lively even late into the night, these water parks are segregated for men and women due to Islamic rules. As the night unfolds, these indoor aquatic havens become exciting places, offering a unique and enjoyable experience for those looking to explore this city beyond its traditional and religious boundaries.

Mashhad Suburbs

Let’s explore some of the top places to visit in Mashhad suburbs:

Tomb of Ferdowsi

The Tomb of Ferdowsi is where we honor one of our great poets, Ferdowsi, who worked hard to preserve the Persian language. It’s located in a garden near the mausoleums of Master Mohammad Reza Shajarian, the famous Iranian singer, and Akhavan Sales, a well-known Iranian poet. The tomb is a special spot that reflects Ferdowsi’s lasting influence.

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In the garden around the tomb, there are cafes, restaurants, and facilities for everyone to enjoy and have a good time. It’s a place in Mashhad, Iran, where people can pay their respects to Ferdowsi’s literary contributions while relaxing in a pleasant setting.

Chalidareh Dam

Situated in the scenic surroundings of Torqabeh, just outside Mashhad, the Chalidreh tourist complex is a fantastic place for relaxation. Here, you can enjoy various fun activities like boating, fishing, and grabbing a bite at the nearby restaurants.

Chalidareh Dam, a part of this complex, provides a peaceful retreat with its greenery, pleasant weather, and a charming lake. It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to escape into nature and unwind in the calm and beauty of Chalidareh.

Qadamgah Mausoleum

Resting in the village of Qadamgah, the Qadamgah Mausoleum stands proudly as a relic from the 11th century AH. With its distinct octagonal shape, elegant arches, and vibrant tiles, it captivates the eyes and transports visitors to a bygone era. Constructed in 1091 AH under the guidance of Shah Soleiman, this architectural marvel unfolds within a vast garden.

Step inside, and you’ll encounter a remarkable stone tablet imprinted with two feet, believed to belong to His Holiness Imam Reza (AS). The dome above is a masterpiece, adorned with a mosaic of white and turquoise diamond-shaped patterns, seemingly reaching toward the sky. Adding a touch of historical charm, an inscription by Al Abd Mohammad Hossein in Thulth script graces the structure. Qadamgah Mausoleum isn’t merely a building; it’s a silent narrator, sharing tales from ages past.

Kang Village

Situated right by the Binaloud mountains, Kang Village is a charming spot merely 19 km west of Tarqabeh and 29 km from Mashhad. This ancient village, standing tall for over a thousand years, has this cool stepped design that draws in folks from Iran and beyond. Kang Village is not just old; it’s also surrounded by awesome mountains and lovely landscapes, making it a great spot for fun outdoor activities. If you’re into history and nature, this village near Mashhad is the place to be!

Khorshid Palace of Kalat

Built in 1740 near Mashhad, the Khorshid Palace of Kalat reflects the grandeur of Nader Shah Afshar’s era. Originally a royal residence during Indian conquests, the palace boasts black marble walls, a cylindrical design, and a central tower adorned with unique features. Today, it stands as an anthropology museum, offering a peek into Razavi Khorasan’s rich cultural heritage.

Named after castles on mountaintops, Kalat, near Mashhad, is a historic region known for its rugged beauty. The Khorshid Palace, with its blend of Persian, Mongolian, and Indian styles, embodies Kalat’s allure. The black marble structure, featuring a cylindrical facade and distinctive half-columns, serves as a captivating museum, preserving the region’s cultural treasures for curious visitors.

How to Get to Mashhad

Explore the way to Mashhad through different scenic routes:

Explore routes to Mashhad by car. If you’re from Tehran, take road 44. Turkmenistan? Use road 22. Coming from Afghanistan? Choose road 66. South from Chabahar? Opt for road 95.

Travel hassle-free by bus from major cities to Mashhad. Buses leave Tehran every 30 minutes, and VIP buses offer extra comfort with more space, colorful seats, and a minibar.

Fly to Mashhad from Tehran, Isfahan, Tabriz, Shiraz, Ahvaz, and Bandar Abbas. International flights from Berlin, Frankfurt, Hanover, and nearby countries make Mashhad easily accessible. Turkish Airlines has daily flights from Istanbul.

Take a scenic train journey from Tehran to Mashhad. Day and night trains are available, passing through cities like Gorgan. Explore a daily day-train option between Mashhad and Isfahan for both comfort and views.

Best Time to Visit Mashhad

For the perfect visit to Mashhad, plan your trip between April and June, or August to October. During these times, the city enjoys lovely spring and fall weather that beats the extremes of summer and winter. Picture the city in April, bursting with colorful flowers and moderate temperatures, creating a serene backdrop for exploring the famous Imam Reza Shrine.

As summer fades into fall from August to October, Mashhad adopts a quieter charm. The temperatures become just right for comfortable outings. Stroll through the streets adorned with golden leaves, providing a beautiful setting for exploring Mashhad’s rich history and architecture. Whether you’re seeking spiritual moments or a taste of local culture, these seasons offer the best conditions to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

Public Transportation in Mashhad

Mashhad, the main city of Razavi Khorasan Province, is like a magnet for nearly 30 million pilgrims and tourists every year. Thanks to the shrine of Imam Reza (AS), it’s a sacred place drawing people from Iran and other countries. Getting to Mashhad is a mix of trains, planes, and buses, each adding its touch to the journey.

Once you’re in this city, moving around is a breeze with buses, the metro, and taxis covering almost every part of the city. It’s like a big web connecting different spots. The buses, metro, and taxis let you explore the city at your own pace and style.

In Mashhad, buses are like the city’s pulse, connecting every nook and cranny. The bus system here, managed by Mashhad City Bus Organization, weaves a network of routes covering almost every part of the city. It’s a mix of regular buses, speedy BRT lines, quick suburban buses, and small minibusses, all working together to keep the city moving.

For those on a pilgrimage to the Razavi shrine, specific BRT routes pave the way. Hop on BRT 800 from Razavi Terminal to Tabarsi Terminal, then switch to BRT 800.2 heading to Motahar Shrine. If you’re starting from the end of the Shahid Bahonar settlement, BRT 830 takes you to the end of Imamiya, and BRT 831 connects Elahia Terminal to Mosli Terminal. Check out the Mashhad City Bus Organization’s website for detailed info on bus stops and routes, making your journey a breeze.

In this city the metro is like a cool ride beneath the city. It’s one of the best ways to get around. Right now, two out of the five planned metro lines are up and running, ready to take folks on a journey. Line 1 is the big shot, running 24 kilometers from Shahid Hashminejad Airport to the Vakilabad area. It meets up with Line 2 at Taghi Abad Square (Shariati station), connecting different parts of the city from the northwest to the southeast.

If you’re headed to places like Targaba, Shandiz villas, Mashhad Zoo, Padideh Shandiz Restaurant, Kohistan Park, Mashhad Amusement Park, Mashhad International Exhibition Center, Mellat Park, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Zoist Khavar Bazaar, Hefdeh Shahrivar Bazaar, or the Airport, Line 1 is your go-to. And guess what? The Vakil Abad Mashhad metro station has a bus terminal nearby, making it easy to reach even more cool spots in the city.

In Mashhad, taxis are there to make your travel easy, especially since lots of people visit for tourism and pilgrimage. Taxis are a smart and affordable choice because they follow traffic plans for different events and are pretty much everywhere in the city. They offer good service, and reasonable prices, and you can find them all over the place.

If you need a taxi, just grab one by phone – they’re always available. And guess what? With the internet spreading everywhere, Mashhad, like other big cities, now has internet taxi centers. These centers use the internet to make getting a taxi even easier, keeping up with the times and the fact that the internet is everywhere in the country.

From Airport to Downtown

Arriving at Hashminejad International Airport in Mashhad and going downtown is pretty easy with different ways to get there. Here’s a simple guide:

To go downtown, just take Mashhad metro line 1 from Ghadir station (airport) to any downtown station you want, like Vakil Abad, Seyed Razi, Hashemiyeh, National Park, Palestine, or Shariati.

If you like taking the bus, check out line 77. It will get you downtown in about 20 minutes. There’s also a special bus from Bait al-Maqdis Square (Fleke Ab) near Imam Reza’s shrine (AS) that goes straight downtown. If you need more info about bus routes from Mashhad Shahid Hashminejad Airport to downtown, you can use the smart route finder from Mashhad transit lines.

Taxis are right there at the airport, so it’s easy to grab one for a ride downtown. You can also find online taxis all around the city, making it convenient for your journey. And don’t forget, there are city taxis all over Mashhad, giving you another option to easily get downtown. Whether by metro, bus, or taxi, going from Hashminejad International Airport to downtown Mashhad is straightforward and has different choices for everyone’s liking.

Mashhad Restaurants

Mashhad’s dining scene isn’t only traditional; it’s a blend of Iranian and international flavors. Amid spiritual pilgrimages, discover fast-food spots for a quick bite. From saffron-infused rice to global influences, Mashhad’s restaurants promise a diverse and dynamic culinary adventure.

Hezardestan Traditional Teahouse

In the heart of Jannat Mall, you’ll find Hezardestan Traditional Teahouse, a charming spot in this city. They keep things simple but tasty, with a menu that locals love, especially their aubergine stew. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by Persian carpets, tiled floors, and cultural bits and bobs, making it a cozy place to enjoy traditional Iranian cuisine . Hezardestan Traditional Teahouse is not just about the eats; it’s a cultural journey, perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Iran in a warm and inviting setting.

Tashrifat Restaurant

Tucked around 30 minutes from the heart of the city, Tashrifat Restaurant offers a unique dining experience. It’s not your usual spot. Imagine lovely outdoor dining with private little huts you can book. The food might be a bit on the pricey side, but trust me, the cozy surroundings make it worth it. Plus, you can enjoy some shisha and tea. It’s a perfect little hideaway for those wanting a peaceful break from the city buzz.

Grill House Pizzeria

For the tastiest pizzas in Mashhad, check out Grill House Pizzeria in the western part, near Kuh Sangi Park. The place might not be fancy, with simple plastic tablecloths and a quick in-and-out vibe, but let me tell you – the pizzas are worth it. The staff is friendly too. They serve up classic Iranian-style pizzas every day, crispy and saucy, just the way you like it. What’s great? It won’t break the bank. Grill House Pizzeria offers yummy pizzas without hurting your wallet, a perfect choice for those looking for a budget-friendly bite in this city.

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Baba Qudrat Restaurant

Right in the middle of downtown Mashhad, Baba Qudrat is a special place to eat. It’s not your usual restaurant – it’s set in an old Silk Road stop. Imagine dining on comfy platforms in your little space, surrounded by history. And what’s for dinner? Delicious kebabs to satisfy your hunger. Baba Qudrat is more than just a place to eat; it’s like taking a trip back in time while enjoying a tasty meal in the heart of Mashhad.

Café Nabat is not your typical spot in Mashhad. Inside, it’s got red bricks and cool lighting that feels like you’re in Europe – a nice change from the usual traditional vibes in the city. They’ve got a good selection of teas, coffees, and cakes, but what stands out is their continental breakfast with croissants, fried eggs, and chips. It’s a hit with students and young locals, making Café Nabat a spot that shows you a different side of the city, bringing a touch of Europe right into the heart of the city.

Mashhad Hotels

Now, let’s explore some of the top Mashhad hotels for your travel to Mashhad:

Darvishi Royal Hotel

Step into luxury at Darvishi Royal Hotel, a top-notch 5-star stay in the heart of the city. As one of the best hotels in Iran , this place is all about making you feel special with that friendly Iranian welcome and the yummy breakfast that comes with your stay. It’s not just any hotel; it’s a cozy escape where every detail is carefully taken care of, from the fancy interiors to the super helpful staff.

What makes Darvishi Royal Hotel extra cool? Well, they don’t just give you a bed; they give you a royal experience.

Ghasr Talaee International Hotel

Get ready for a comfy stay at Ghasr Talaee International Hotel, the 5-star gem right in the heart of Mashhad. They’re all about giving you that friendly Iranian welcome and throwing in a tasty breakfast for free. It’s not just any hotel; it’s a place where you can feel at home, with that extra touch of luxury.

Imagine waking up to a yummy breakfast every day – that’s the kind of treat you can expect at Ghasr Talaee International Hotel. We recommend it for those wanting a bit of luxury in Mashhad. So, if you’re after a super comfy and fancy stay, this hotel is where it’s at.

Atrak Hotel

Want a comfy stay in Mashhad without burning a hole in your pocket? Atrak Hotel is your go-to 4-star place right in the middle of the action. They’re all about giving you that friendly Iranian welcome and throwing in a free breakfast to kickstart your day.

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Looking for a place that’s easy on your wallet? We recommend Atrak Hotel for budget-conscious guests. It’s not just a money-saver; it’s a cozy spot where you can relax and enjoy your time in Mashhad without worrying about the cost. Atrak Hotel proves that you can have a great stay without breaking the bank.

Looking for a cozy place in Mashhad? Check out Jam Hotel – a simple and friendly 3-star stay right in the heart of things. They’re all about that warm Iranian welcome, and hey, they even throw in a free breakfast to kick off your day.

Even though it’s not super fancy, Jam Hotel knows how to make you feel at home. It’s a down-to-earth choice that doesn’t cost a fortune. So, if you’re after a comfortable stay without the big price tag, Jam Hotel is where it’s at. And guess what? We give it a thumbs up for those who want a taste of Mashhad without splashing too much cash.

Aminian Hotel

Looking for a budget-friendly spot in Mashhad? Say hello to Aminian Hotel, a 2-star gem that keeps things simple without hurting your wallet. They’re all about that friendly Iranian vibe, making you feel right at home. Plus, they throw in a free breakfast to kickstart your day and keep things easy on your budget.

If you’re all about saving some cash and still want a cozy stay, Aminian Hotel is the way to go. We recommend it for those who want a straightforward and affordable option in Mashhad, proving that you can enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

Things to Know Before Visiting Mashhad

Mashhad Budget Code

Visiting Mashhad might cost you a bit, especially if you’re heading to the popular Imam Reza shrine. Things like where to stay, how to get around, and grabbing a meal or souvenir can add up. But here’s the deal: pick budget-friendly places to stay, try local street food, and shop at local markets. Do your homework, plan, and respect local customs. Mashhad turns out to be affordable if you navigate wisely, offering a taste of Iranian culture and friendly vibes.

Staying Safe in Mashhad

Mashhad is a safe spot for tourists, but a sprinkle of caution is wise. Avoid wandering alone at night, keep an eye on your surroundings, and secure your stuff. Keep copies of important documents handy and have emergency contacts ready, just in case. Before heading to Mashhad, check your government’s safety info. Enjoy your worry-free trip to this friendly Iranian city!

Mashhad Ideal Visitors: Families and Pilgrims

Mashhad, a city steeped in Islamic history, is a perfect spot for families and those on a religious journey. While everyone is welcome, the city’s conservative tone may not suit thrill-seeking youth. Yet, with shopping, dining, and cultural gems, there’s still joy to be found. Couples can enjoy a quiet visit, but it’s not the top pick for a romantic getaway. In essence, Mashhad’s appeal lies in its rich Islamic heritage, making it a haven for families and those keen on exploring religious roots.

FAQs about Mashhad

Q1: why is mashhad famous.

A1: Mashhad is the second-largest and most populated city in Iran, right after Tehran. This is mainly because of its religious, industrial, and economic significance. Mashhad is especially famous for being a major destination for people who want to visit the holy shrine of Imam Reza, the 8th Shia Imam, which is the largest in Iran.

Q2: Is Mashhad worth visiting?

A2: Mashhad is a city located in Razavi Khorasan, Iran. It boasts several popular attractions, such as the Imam Reza Holy Shrine, Tomb of Nader Shah, and the Shirbad Ski Resort, making it a highly recommended destination to explore.

Q3: Is Mashhad Sunni or Shia?

A3: Mashhad got its name during the time of the Safavid Empire. The word “Mashhad” comes from Arabic and means a place associated with a martyr. It’s famous as the location where Imam Reza, the eighth leader of Shia Muslims, passed away (Shias believe he was martyred). His shrine was built there.

Q4: How safe is Mashhad?

A4: In Mashhad, similar to many big cities, some areas are safer than others. Overall, the city is considered safe, especially around the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza, where there is constant security and surveillance. If you’re a solo female traveler, it’s advisable to steer clear of less crowded and dimly lit areas, especially at night.

Q5: Why is Mashhad a holy city?

A5: Mashhad is among the world’s largest religious cities, renowned as the final resting place of Imam Reza. The city is particularly famous and held in high regard for being the location of the tomb of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam.

Last Words: Experience the Best of Mashhad with a Customized Tour

Mashhad is a big city in northeast Iran, the second-largest in the region. It was a key stop on the Silk Road a long time ago, connecting with Merv to the east. But what makes it special for Iranians is the tomb of Imam Reza, the 8th Imam of Shia Muslims. This city isn’t just bustling; it’s also a spiritual place where people feel a strong connection to their faith and history.

To truly savor the essence of this unique destination, opting for Customized Tours is a key consideration. To Iran Tour prides itself on curating itineraries that cater to your specific desires. From cultural excursions to culinary delights, and adventure activities to strolls through bustling bazaars, the team at To Iran Tour ensures your trip is a reflection of your preferences.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, we are here to assist you in having a truly exceptional experience in Iran.

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Things to Do in Mashhad, Iran - Mashhad Attractions

Things to do in mashhad.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Imam Reza Holy Shrine

2. Kooh Sangi Park

3. Darougheh Historical House

4. Goharshad Mosque

5. Nadir Shah Afshar's Tomb

6. Kang Village

7. Mellat Park

8. Professor Bazima Science Park

9. Water Waves Land

10. Miniature Park

11. Arman Shopping Center

12. Khorasan Great Museum

13. Saint Mesrop Armenian Church

14. Salook National Park

15. Khaje Aba Salt Shrine

16. Karaland

17. Bazehoor Fire Temple

18. Armitaj Golshan Tower

19. Chalidareh Dam

20. Mahdi Gholi Beyk historical bath

21. Koohsar Complex - Sports Hall

22. Ghonbad Sabz

23. Armenian Cemetery

24. Bagh Melli Park

25. shojaee carpet gallery, 26. engarium planetarium, 27. shahr- e- farang art gallery.

28. Saba Sky Diving

29. wonderland.

30. CIP Lounge

What travelers are saying

• Imam Reza Holy Shrine
• Kooh Sangi Park
• Kang Village
• Goharshad Mosque
• Nadir Shah Afshar's Tomb
• Mellat Park
• Chalidareh Dam
• Salook National Park
• Bagh Melli Park

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around
• 8.2 Homestays
• 9.1 Emergency services
• 11.1 Inside Iran
• 11.2 Turkmenistan
• 11.3 Afghanistan

Almost everything about Mashhad relates to its role as the holiest city in Iran, even its name (literally: burial place of the martyr ). As the capital of Iran 's Khorasan province, Mashhad's year-round cool temperatures and fascinating insights into the Shi'ite heartland have much to offer visitors.

Understand [ edit ]

Mashhad started life out as Sanabad, a village pitstop for trade caravans headed towards Turkmenistan . But in the ninth century, the eighth Shi'ite Imam Ali Bin Moosa Al Reza, the great-grandson of Imam Ali who was the cousin & son in law of Prophet Mohammad was poisoned by the jealous caliph of the time. Imam Reza was buried in Mashhad, and his shrine became one of the holiest sites to the Shi'ite Muslims after the Holy Kaaba in Saudi Arabia and Karbala in Iraq.

Over the next thousand years, the shrine complex was levelled, ransacked and rebuilt a number of times depending on the ruling army of the day. Today the shrine is the most important place in the city and in the whole of Iran.

Dress code for women is strict, as it is in any part of Iran, however a self encompassing chador is not a must for any lady in public place in city. For women, a simple headscarf or roo-sari , with a trenchcoat and pants are fine. Men are also not allowed to wear shorts. These rules are the same for any and all cities and villages in Iran; it is national law.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

A taxi from the Holy Shrine area to the airport should not cost more than 150,000 rials.

By train [ edit ]

The 36.3043 59.6235 2 railway station is located just north of the Holy Shrine area. There are several regular trains from Mashhad to Tehran, both day trains and overnight trains. They vary in speed, price and quality, the fastest do the trip in 8 hours. There are night trains to Isfahan (one or two per day, 18 hours) and many other destinations.

You get here from Turkmenistan . There are trains from Ashgabat and Merv to the Sarakhs border. And at the other side of the border there is a daily train from the Sarakhs border to Mashhad.

By bus [ edit ]

There are mostly night buses to Mashhad from other important cities. There are no international buses from Ashgabat or anywhere in Turkmenistan . From the terminal walk outside to pay less for taxis. Alternatively, take the busway just in front of the terminal (10,000 riald) to connect to the metro.

Get around [ edit ]

Mashhad has a rapid transit system [formerly dead link] , which operates from 06:00-22:00 and cost 20,000 rials per trip.

See [ edit ]

Apart from Imam Reza shrine there is a number of large parks, the tombs of historical celebrities in nearby Tus and Nishapur, the tomb of Nadir Shah and Kooh Sangi park and Mellat Park that have modern attractions for children such as the tallest Ferris wheel or fanfar in Iran and Koohestan Park-e-Shadi Complex that includes a zoo, where many wild animals are kept and which attracts many visitors to Mashhad. It is also home to the Mashhad Airbase (formerly Imam Reza airbase), jointly a military installation housing Mirage aircraft, and a civilian international airport.

Some points of interest lie outside the city: the tomb of Khajeh Morad, along the road to Tehran; the tomb of Khajeh Rabi' 6 km (3.7 mi) north of the city where there are some inscriptions by the renowned Safavid calligrapher Reza Abbasi; and the tomb of Khajeh Abasalt, a distance of 20 km (12 mi) from Mashhad along the road to Neishabur. (The three were all disciples of Imam Reza).

Among the other sights are the tomb of the poet Ferdowsi in Tus, 24 km (15 mi) distance, and the summer resorts at Torghabeh, Torogh, Akhlamad, Zoshk, and Shandiz.

The Shah Public Bath, built during the Safavid era in 1648, is an outstanding example of the architecture of that period. It has been restored, and is to be turned into a museum.

• 36.2879 59.6165 2 Central Museum ( Located inside the Holy Shrine complex, it is signposted in English ). Weekdays 08:00-17:45, Holidays 08:00-12:00 . This museum shows an arbitrary mix of items such as coins, stamps, European clocks and astronomical instruments, pictures of marine animals, but also some interesting items like the old tombs of Imam Reza and pictures dating back to the beginning of photography in Iran. Some of the explanations are in English. Avoid visiting this museum with a guide from the Foreign Pilgrims Assistance Office, as they will press you to adequately appreciate each of the items, even the Euro coins. 10,000 rials (also for foreigners) . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 36.2879 59.6165 3 Carpet Museum ( Located inside the Holy Shrine complex, it is signposted in English ). Sa-W 08:00-12:30, Th 08:00-11:30, Holidays 08:00-12:00 . The name says it all. Great and impressive pieces on display. 10,000 rials (also for foreigners) . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 36.295 59.6104 4 Nader Shah Park & Mausoleum . Monument to the founder of Afshar dynasty (1736–1747) ( updated Oct 2015 )
• 36.48613 59.51758 5 Ferdowsi Park & Mausoleum . ( updated Oct 2015 )
• Gombade Sabz Mausoleum . ( updated Oct 2015 )
• 36.312 59.373 6 Torghabeh . Sightseeing, village restaurants. ( updated Oct 2015 )
• 36.3949 59.294 7 Shandiz . Village restaurants. ( updated Oct 2015 )

Do [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ].

Mashhad has three large bazaars. Interesting things to buy include Khorassan crafts, fur-cloak, jewelry, perfume, saffron, and religious souvenirs.

• 36.2828 59.613 1 Bazaar-e Reza ( Bazaar-e Bozorg ). Two stories height and one of the main shopping centres in the town. Sells souvenirs, sweets, saffron and clothes on the first floor and jewellery on the second floor. Famous for the turquoise which is mined near Mashhad. All products are aimed at the Iranian taste.  
• Sara-ye Bazaar-e Reza Mostly a fabric and textile bazaar.
• Kuwaiti Bazaar , on the 17th Shahrivar Square.
• Bazaar-e bozorg-e markazy , on the corner of shirazi Av. and akhond-e khorasani st.(Shohada crossroad).
• Shargh-Zist Trade Center All things with best prices, Tabarsi Sqr, north side of Holy Shrine.
• Proma Trade Center , Janbaz Sqr.
• Almas-e Shargh , Northern Khayyam Blvd.
• Zist Khavar , Shariaty Sqr.
• 36.31557 59.55936 2 Sajjad Blvd ( 500 metres northeast of Khayyam metro station ). You can find few good quality shopping centers in this Blvd (a bit expensive).  
• 36.29521 59.577067 3 Sahar Khiz Saffron , Ahmadabad Blvd ( close to metro station Qaem ), ☏ +98 51 3843 1542 . A spice shop that sells high quality saffron among other spices like Kerman Cumin. No bargaining, fixed prices. 3g saffron 330,000 rials .  

Money [ edit ]

A few 36.2898 59.6012 1 money changers line up on Imam Khomeini Blvd., this is where rates are competitive. Hotels change at much worse rates, if at all.

Eat [ edit ]

Iranian cuisine is one of the best in the world. They do not eat spicy food but even then their food is very tasty. Chello Kebab is a very popular dish as well as Bakhtiari Kebab. There are also different kinds of breads available. So eating will be an assured good and affordable experience in Mashhad

You can find lots of great restaurants and all kinds of fast-foods are available. The most advertised restaurant of Mashhad (and one of the most expensive) is 'Padide Shandiz'. There are also numerous other decent restaurants in Shandiz. Full meals with rice cost US$5-20.

Padide Shandiz address: Shandiz town.

You can find a kind of ice-cream named ice pack "Persian: آیس پک" in mashhad. it's really great to taste it. There are lots of Ice Pack bars in Mashhad. The main one is placed at "Shariati Sqr". This kind of ice-cream can be found with all kinds of flavors like chocolate, apple, cherry, strawberry, coffee, peach and all kind of fruits. This type of ice-cream was invented in Iran, is even getting popular in the United States of America.

36.2926 59.5982 1 Hezardestan Traditional Teahouse , Jannat (جنت) street ( in a parallel street to Modarres Blvd. Jannat street is a pedestrian zone. There is a huge Lonely Planet advertisement on the wall opposite to the restaurant so it is hard to miss. ). Very beautifully decorated subterranean restaurant. The menu comprises (only) four dishes (Chicken Kebab, Dizi, Ghormeh, mashed eggplant) which are very well done and are served with lots of side dishes. Service is lame, however, bring enough time. Base charge for tea = 150,000 rials. Meals 250,000 to 470,000 rials . ( updated Jan 2016 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Mashhad attracts huge number of visitors specially during the summer months, so be sure to make travel reservations in advance. Mashhad can also be very cold during winters, hence heavy woolens are required during winters. Even in summers nights are pretty cold and requires light woolens.

Hotels [ edit ]

Five-star hotels in the city are: Pars Hotel , Ghasr Talaee international Hotel , Ghasr International Hotel and Pardisan Hotel . There are also couple of good hotels near the Imam Ali Bin Moosa Al Reza Shrine, namely Khayyam Hotel , Ghadir International to name a few. The Shrine is 10 min. walk from the Khayyam Hotel and the rent for double bedroom with attached bath is US$100-120 per night. but the rent for Ghasr Talaee Hotel is very expensive about US$400 per night. But there are lots of rooms for rent around the shrine which are pretty cheap and suitable to rent, they are ranged from US$30-90 per night depending on the distance from shrine.

• 36.28296 59.61309 1 Razavieh Grand Hotel ( هتل رضویه مشهد ) ( Just next to the main entrance of Reza Bazaar. ), ☏ +98 51 3365 3611 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 13:00 . Located very close to the shrine and the Reza Bazaar, yet not noisy. The four stars this hotel attributes to itself are bogus, however. The rooms and facilities are simple, old-fashioned and a bit run-down. Staff is not motivated. expect 1,600,000 rials for double occupancy. Bargain . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 36.28327 59.61214 2 Hotel Atlas , ☏ +98 51 3854 5061 . Located very close to the shrine. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 36.28323 59.61281 3 Hotel Atrak , ☏ +98 51 3364 7093 . Located very close to the shrine and the Reza Bazaar, yet not noisy. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 36.28144 59.61035 4 Hotel Ferdous ( هتل فردوس ), ☏ +98 513-8540830 , fax : +98 513-8544656 . Located close to the shrine on busy Imam Reza Blvd. expect 3.86 million rials for double occupancy. Discounts available outside the peak season . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 36.2782 59.6078 5 Ghasr Talaee international Hotel , Basij square, Imam Reza st., Mashhad, Iran , ☏ +98(51)-38038 , fax : +98(51)-38037 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Five-star hotel, located close to the shrine on busy Imam Reza Blvd.  

Homestays [ edit ]

• 36.28223 59.59404 6 Vali's non smoking homestay , 38th (Farsi:۳۸) alley (previously 6th) off Malakoshoaraye Bahar street (previously Engelab Eslami street), house 277 (Farsi:۲۷۷) ( close to Lashgar square at the intersection with Imam Khomeini street ), ☏ +98 513 851 6980 , +98 915 100 1324 , [email protected] . Vali is a carpet merchant and a regional guide but most of all a chatterbox! (He speaks good English, basic French and German) His wife cooks delicious meals which you can enjoy sitting on the terrace. One bedroom and a comfortable dorm are available in the basement full of Persian rugs with a basic shared bathroom. The setting is simple but cozy and there is a warm family atmosphere. Internet and Wi-Fi. Lots of tourist information (Vali can help you to sort your visa for Turkmenistan). Hikes and excursions can be organized for one or more days in the villages and mountains surrounding Mashhad. (to help you find Vali's place copy this Farsi phrase and show it around: بین چهاره راه لشکر و استانداری ملکا اشعرابهار ۳۸ شماره۲۷۷ ولی انصاری). Dorm US$10, breakfast $2, dinner $5 .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

• In crowded places and places of worship, such as the Holy Shrine, be careful about pick-pockets. Take care of your possessions as there's a small risk of theft by pick-pockets.

Emergency services [ edit ]

• Police: 110
• Fire department: 125
• Road EMS: 115 or 112

Cope [ edit ]

The following countries have consulates in Mashad:

• Consulate of Afghanistan , Imam Khomeini Avenue, Doshahid Street, Sevom Isfand Sq. , ☏ +98-513-8544829 , +98-513-8597552 , fax : +98 21 33113508 , [email protected] .  
• Consulate of Kazakhstan , Rahnemai Street 10, 41 h. , ☏ +98-513-8417716 , fax : +98-513 8401293 , [email protected] .  
• Consulate of Kyrgyzstan , No. 209, Next to Gas station, Abkooh Ave. 91839 , ☏ +98-513-2229845 , fax : +98-513-2227045 , [email protected] .  
• 36.2895 59.601 2 Consulate of Pakistan , P.O. Box No.91375-1733, Imam Khomeini St., Opposite of Melli Garden , ☏ +98-513-6040364 .  
• Consulate of Turkmenistan , No. 34, Konsoolgari Alley, 10th Day Sq. 91386 , ☏ +98-513-8547066 , fax : +98-513-8547073 .  
• Consulate of Saudi Arabia , No. 4, Molavi St. Sajjad Blvd , ☏ +98-513-6076276 , +98-513-6076279 , fax : +98-513-6076273 , +98-513-6076278 .  

Go next [ edit ]

Inside iran [ edit ].

You can easily use ground transportation and visit these ancient cities in a short period of time:

• Tous — the hometown of Ferdowsi, the great Iranian poet of the 10th century (AD) and the author of Shaahnaameh, a great Iranian epic masterpiece.
• Nishapur — hometown and the place of tombs of Khayyaam and Attaar, two poets and polymaths. Khayyaam was also a great mathematician and astronomer.
• Torghabeh — beautiful countryside.
• Torghabeh Shandiz — beautiful countryside.

Turkmenistan [ edit ]

Since no public transportation goes across the Turkmen border, to get to Ashgabat in Turkmenistan , the following option is the most convenient:

• Take a bus to Quchan : every 2 hours from 06:30. Cost: 8,000 rials. Duration: 2 hr 30 min.
• From Quchan , take a private taxi to Bajgiran (village at the border). Cost: 60,000 rials for 2, or less if you can. Duration: about 1 hr.
• At Bajgiran , go to the border (opening time: 07:30 - 15:30 Iran time). Crossing the border can take up to 2 hours. Turkmen police will ask for an entry tax of $10 (per person) + $2 of bank fees (per group), to be paid in US dollars only.
• On the Turkmenistan side, take a taxi to Ashgabat , which can cost up to US$15 per person. Duration: about 1 hr.

Afghanistan [ edit ]

Herat in Afghanistan is a few hundred kilometers from Mashhad.

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

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

Table of Contents

Imam Reza Holy Shrine

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

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

Goharshad Mosque

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

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

Tomb of Nader Shah

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

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

Chalidarreh Dam Complex

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

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

Kang Village

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

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

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

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Mashhad Travel Guide | Mashhad Attractions | Things to Do and see in Mashhad

Mashhad / city of paradise / imam reza city / the most important pilgrimage city of iran.

Mashhad is a city that was the capital of Iran in Afsharid time and nowadays it is the second mega city of Iran and the capital of Razavi Khorasan province. The city is located in north east of the country. Since Mashhad is known as housing the tomb of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam, every year more than 30 millions Iranian pilgrims and about 1 million foreign pilgrims visit the city and Imam Reza Shrine. Geographically, from the north the city leads to Kalat county, from the north west it leads to Dargaz city, from the west it leads to Chenaran and Nishabur cities and from the east it leads to Sarakhs and Torbat-e Jam cities.

About the origin of the name of the city it should be said that “ Mashhad” means the place of martyrdom. Imam Reza was killed by Al-Ma’mun Abbasi in 202 AH and was burried in Aaron tomb in Sanabad.  Since that time Sanabad-e Noghan city has been called “ Mashhad” and it became wide during the time, especially in time of Shah Tahmasp I. People of Tus city also migrated to Mashhad. It should be said that for the first time the city was labeled as “ Mashhad “ by Mahmud of Ghazni. Nowadays Mashhad is one of the most crowded cities of Iran and the Middle East in terms of attracting tourists. In addition to Imam Reza Shrine, there are many great mosques, historical graves, traditional schools and Bazaars in Mashhad that persuade you to travel and visit the city.

Where to stay in Mashhad?

Since Mashhad is one of the most crowded cities of Iran and many tourists travel to the city every year, it has a lot of good hotels such as Darvishi hotel, Homa hotel 1, Pardisan hotel, Ghasr international hotel and Ghasr Talaee international hotel that are very expensive. Sinoor, Khaneye Sabz, Soroush and Parmida are also good but less expensive hotels of Mashhad. If you prefer to stay at aparthotels, Espino hotel and Parsian Tourist Toos hotel are good choices for you. But it should be mentioned that their price are as same as three star hotels. We recommend you to visit Shandiz county near the city that has many beautiful rivers and it is a worth seeing place. You can also buy handicrafts like pottery things, Kilim and traditional Fur clothing from Shandiz’s shops. The other place that you should not lose during your trip to Mashhad is Torqabeh which is located in 15 km from the city. It is a spectacular ancient region with pleasant cool weather. You can also go and visit Anbaran village in 1 km from Torqabeh which has a great vegetation that make the whole region fragrant.

What to eat? Where to eat?

Mashhad like other cities of Iran has its own local foods such as: Shashlik, Haleem, Congee ( Shole), Digcheh, Changali, Eshkeneh, Turnip soup, Koko shirin, Chelo Mahicheh and Reshteh polo that are hard to find in the restaurants of the city. But you can eat the best kind of Shashlik in Eram Shandiz restaurant, the most delicious kinds of Haleem and Shole in Baharestan restaurant and the best kind of Mahicheh in Pesarane Karim restaurant. Baba Ghodrat, Moein Darbari, Bagh Salar and Baame Koohsar are other nice restaurants of the city. We have also some special suggestions for you, the first one is Dizi Seyed restaurant for those who like Dizi ( Abgoosht), the second one is Yarane Gonabad Ash place for those who like different kinds of Ash, the third one is Chili Cheese, Pizza Pizza and MeChef Italian restaurant for those who interested in eating fast food and foreign foods, and the last one is Dariush traditional restaurant and Blue Lantern restaurant for those who like traditional peaceful places. There are also some good restaurants outside the city that Shandiz restaurant located in 25 km from the city is the most popular and luxurious one. The beautiful landscape and perfect menu of Shandiz restaurant make it popular among the tourists and pilgrims. Torqabeh and and Anbaran also have nice traditional restaurants like Bolbol-e Anbaran, Shabhaye Anbaran and Kariz restaurants.

Beverages ( Soft Drinks)

Mashhad has many cafes that we introduce the best of them to you: Sugar Cafe, Eden Cafe, Vanilla Cafe, Biscuit coffee shop and Didar Cafe which have suitable environments and good menus.

What do we buy from Mashhad?

Mashhad has popular souvenirs such as: Saffron, Leblebi with Raisin, Turbah, Tasbih, Agate jewellery and prayer rug that you can buy them from Bazaar-e Reza near Imam Reza Shrine, Goharshad mall and central Bazaar. If you prefer modern shopping centers, you should go Sajad street of Mashhad where many shopping centres are in. Arman shopping center, Almas-e Shargh shopping mall, Melal shopping center, Zist-e Khavar shopping mall and Vilaj Tourist mall are other good choices for shopping in Mashhad.

Health and Care

An important point that should be considered by the tourists during a trip is a matter of health. If you suffer a special disease or take certain medications, we recommend you to choose a place for staying which is located near health centers to easily access to health services. But if you need emergency aids you should call 115. Mashhad has equipped hospitals that provide you with complete therapeutic services for example: Razavi, Mehr, 17 Shahrivar and Farabi hospitals.

Where to go and visit in Mashhad?

The most important place that you should not forget to visit is Imam Reza Shrine, but  Mashhad has many other attractions that you can visit and enjoy such as: Sang Bast complex which is the oldest monument with Islamic architecture of Khorasan, Harunie edifice that is the only historical monument of Tus city, Dodar school that is the most beautiful symbol of Timurid architecture, Haj Malek historical house, Tomb of Nader Shah, Mehdi Gholi Beyk Bath, Mardom Shenasi ( Anthropology) museum, Tomb of Palandouz, Ghoharshad mosque, Tomb of Ferdowsi, Haft Hoz garden, Vakil Abad park, 72 Tan mosque, Koohsangi park and Akhlamad Yaylak.

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• Will I be travelling as part of a group? No, our tailor-made trips are arranged on an individual basis. This means you are not tied to the wishes of a group and can arrange your itinerary at your own pace. If you are interested in a Group Tour, we do offer a range of departures in small groups of up to 16 people.
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The best places to visit in mashhad, the holiest city in iran.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

Mashhad, the holiest place in Iran, is seldom on the list of travelers because of its relatively remote location. However, if you are discovering the north of Iran, you should include it in your itinerary. The heart of the city is the “haram”, the shrine complex of the 8th Shia Imam, Imam Reza, that over 20 million pilgrims visit every year. However, even if you are not Muslim, you will be astonished by the unique spiritual atmosphere of the holy complex. This comprehensive travel guide includes the best places to visit in Mashhad and around and all the practical information (where to sleep, what is the best time to go) you need to know to make the most of your trip to the second-biggest city of Iran. 

How to get to Mashhad?

Mashhad has connections to several big cities. 

By road:  Birjand, Esfahan, Gorgan, Kerman, Tehran , Yazd . 

By air:  there are regular flights from Tehran and other cities to Mashhad. Check the available domestic flights here.

Read this article about the 45 import things you need to know before traveling to Iran

Where to sleep in Mashhad?

Attracting millions of pilgrims yearly, there is no shortage of accommodation for any budget in the city. In the bazaar area around the “haram,” you can easily find a room in a hotel or guesthouse. Private people also rent out rooms, so you can ask around, and they help you find something. This is how I got a private apartment for 2.5 million (8 EUR) rials in one of the residential buildings on one side street near the bazaar area. 

Prices are not fixed and tend to be higher on Thursday and Friday, during the special days of praying and the most important religious festivals.

Ghasr Talaee International Hotel – 5 star

Ghast hotel – 5 star

Javad hotel – 4 star

Javaher Shargh Hotel – 3 star

Book your hotel in Mashhad

How to plan your trip to Iran

Book your flight to Iran : I always use Google Flights, Skyscanner or Wayaway to find the cheapest flight tickets worldwide. To get an extra 10% for your Wayaway Membership Plus program use my discount code VOG

Important: Booking.com and other common platforms do not work due to international restrictions in Iran. The only exemption is Skyscanner , where you can book both your international flight and accommodation in Iran!

Book your accommodation in Iran: Hostelworld.com offers a limited number of hostels. All other services are only available through local travel agencies, like 1st Quest.

Get your visa to Iran: 1st Quest or Tap Persia local companies can easily arrange your insurance for Iran

Book domestic flights, hotels, transfers, bus and train tickets , a nd local tours , all in one place via 1st Quest travel agency.

Another good thing is that by using my discount code, you get an extra 5% off your bookings : VOG%1stQ

Virtual Private Network (VPN): Use VPNExpress , the fastest and best Virtual Private Network to get access to blocked sites in Iran and to prevent hackers from stealing your private information.

Insurance to Iran: 1st Quest or Tap Persia local companies can arrange for you visa to Iran

Book local guides and local tours : Pirsik is specialized in offering tour guides and local tours in less touristic countries, including Iran.

What is Mashhad famous for?

The history of Mashhad is linked to Imam Reza, who lived from 765 to 818 during the Abbasid rule. Thanks to his kindness and generosity, he became more popular than Ma’mun Caliph (the son of Haroun ar-Rashid, immortalized by the Thousand and One Night Nigh tales) at that time. So, he tried to get rid of Imam Reza by poisoning him. He was buried in a village near Tus in Khorasan province. The village started to attract pilgrims and became known as Mashhad, “the place of martyrdom”. The nearby Tus was a more significant town, but after Tamerlane ransacked it, Mashhad became the capital of Razavi Khorasan province.

Read this travel guide about the best 2 weeks north Iran itinerary

Shiism became a state religion only during the Safavid dynasty in Iran, and the prominent ruler reconstructed the holy shrine.

Today, Mashhad is the holiest and second-largest city of Iran, located in the northeastern part of the country in Razavi Khorasan province. Since it is far from the classical touristic Iranian route and other main cities, much fewer tourists include it in their itinerary. It is, however, an ideal stop for those continuing their trip further to Turkmenistan and South Khorasan province.

Over 20 million pilgrims come to Mashhad every year. Together with Karbala (shrine of Imam Hussein) and Najaf (burial place of Imam Ali) in Iraq, Mashhad is the third most important Shia religious site. It is believed that Imam Reza can fulfill the wishes of any person, Muslim or not Muslim, religious or not religious. Pilgrims come from different Arab countries, wear different traditional clothes, and speak different languages, making Mashhad a unique place.

On the other hand, during my travels through Iran, I also heard that some Iranians consciously keep themselves away from overly religious places, like Qom and Mashhad, as Islam already infiltrates their daily lives more than they want. For that reason, some Iranians never plan to set foot in Mashhad.

After having been to Najaf and Karbala in Iraq, I was eager to get to Mashhad as well, and I was astonished by what I saw. I joined the ladies’ queue to get close to Imam Reza’s burial place, namely the shrine’s zarih (gold-latticed cage). While in the line, a woman distributed bread. Others were praying and crying. Many people come with disabilities or physical illnesses in the hope of recovering. And miracles do happen at the shrine. There are countless records about the miraculous healings around Imam Reza’s burial place.  

In the center of Mashhad stands the “haram”, the shrine complex where the highly respected 8th Imam, Imam Reza, is buried.

Besides being the holiest place, Mashhad is also great for buying Persian carpets and has the best quality saffron in Iran. 

Other articles about Iran

What you can and cannot do in Iran

45 useful tips before traveling to Iran

Dress code in Iran

The best books to read about Iran

The best 2-week itinerary in Iran (classical tour)

2 weeks north Iran itinerary

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Travel guide to Isfahan

Travel guide to Shiraz

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by Ramin Paknejad

A tour guide in Iran for cultural and cycling tours with ten years of experience who jumps on every opportunity to bike long distances. After the start of the Syria war, he and his team completed the 5900km Tehran-Istanbul-Tehran “cycling for peace project”. His big dream is to bike from the North Cape of Norway to Cape Town in South Africa as soon as visa restrictions are eased.

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Mashhad City

Mashhad city

Mashhad City is the second largest city in Iran and also the holiest one. Mashhad city is the home to Imam Reza shrine, one of the descendants of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. So Mashhad tourism is mostly religious rather than historical or cultural, although the city doesn’t lack any attractions in such fields. Due to this matter, Mashhad city’s atmosphere is a bit more sensitive concerning topics such as women’s dress code than other cities in the country. But still, there are enough reasons on the other side of the coin to provoke you to travel to Mashhad.

Mashhad city climate can be as hot as 45 degrees Celsius in the peak of summer and as cold as -15 during winters. So you better be prepared for it before you travel to Mashhad. Mashhad city is one of the pioneer cities in tourism. Everything in the city is designed and prepared so the pilgrims can come and go at the most convenience.

So follow this Iran travel guide article on Mashhad tourism to find out more about this holiest of cities:

Travel to Mashhad

Airplane: Mashhad International Airport is located on the city’s southern side. Daily flights take place to and from most of the cities in the country and most of the neighboring countries. You can get to the Mashhad international airport using line one (color-coded green) of the Mashhad metro or taking Line 1 of Mashhad city buses.

Train: travel to Mashhad is possible via Train from Kerman city and Tehran City . You can get to Mashhad city railway station via taking Mashhad metro and getting off at Railway Metro station. There are two types of trains available for Tehran, a normal one that takes around 12 hours and a high-speed one that travels this route within almost 8 hours. There’s also possible to travel to Turkmenistan via train. This train makes stops at Ashgabat and Merv.

Bus: Imam Reza Bus Terminal is located in a crowded district part of the city, but it is easily accessible using public transport such as the BRT buses.

Getting around in Mashhad Tourism

Mashhad Metro : Unlike Tehran Metro, Mashhad metro has only two operational lines. Line one connects the southwest of the city to the northeastern part. Line two only partially operates, with not more than half of the service stations. This line starts from the southwestern part of the city, all the way to the east. Service hours for line 1 are between 6:30 and 23, and for line 2, it is between 6 and 18.

To use Mashhad metro, you can use the disposable one-ride tickets or get rechargeable credit cards from any booth in every station. Credit cards are also used for the BRT system and city buses.

BRT: The Bus Rapid Transit system in Mashhad city is available, connecting most of the town’s corners and making stops at Imam Reza Holy Shrine.

City Bus: The buses are a bit slower than the BRT system but access more parts of the city. You can use the credit card from the Mashhad metro or pay in cash.

Mashhad Hotels and Hostels

Although Mashhad tourism enjoys many pilgrims coming to the city yearly, not many backpackers choose Mashhad city as a destination. That’s why few budget options are available in the city to travel to Mashhad.

Helme Hotel: a budget option to travel to Mashhad, close to the Shrine and Shariati metro station. Located: at the corner of Bahar and Saberi street

phone number: +98 51 3855 0504

Arsh Hotel: this is one of the best options to travel to Mashhad because It is close to the Shrine and Imam Khomeini metro station. It is located at Kamyab Alley, Western Danesh street, Imam Reza Blvd.

Phone number: +98 51 3855 1220

Diplomat Hotel: This hotel is located just by the Mashhad Railway station and has access to the railway metro station.

Phone number:  +98 51 33011

Mashhad Tourism

Mashhad city is the most religious city in Iran. Mashhad tourism mostly revolves around the Shrine of Imam Reza . It is the largest Mosque in the world. Tens of thousands of domestic and international pilgrims come here annually to pay their respects. Be advised that during national and religious holidays, it gets extremely crowded. Aside from the shrine itself, there’s the museum and the library of Imam Reza, which are both rich and highly recommended to pay a visit. The Imam Reza Shrine Complex is accessible by bus and metro.

Mausoleum (Tomb) of Ferdowsi , (one of) the greatest Persian poet ever, is here in Mashhad. Side by side with it, there’s the Haroonieh. There are also live poet reciting and other cultural gatherings held here occasionally.

Complex , which its initial establishment dates back to the 8th century.

If you want to know more about the history of Iran and Mashhad city during the Renaissance, you can pay a visit to the Mausoleum of Nader Shah . This tomb and museum are dedicated to one of the greatest and yet most brutal kings of the Persian empire during the 18th century.

As for nature lovers, you can have a light hike on the Kuh Sangi (Stone mount), which is easily accessible via public transport, or pay a visit to Shandiz village and enjoy the luxury of the Shandiz Complex and Restaurant. It is one of the most famous restaurants in the country.

Imam Reza Bazaar , located on the eastern side of Imam Reza street, is one of the newly made classic Bazaars in the country. Here you can get your hands on all kinds of local goods and souvenirs.

The Dinner Plate for Mashhad Tourism

Eshkeneh , Shashlik (Shashlyk) Kebab , Reshteh Polo , and various kinds of Ash are the most popular locals.

Iranian cuisine dishes you can find in Mashhad city. Pesaran Karim Restaurant , Baba Qodrat Traditional Restauran t, and Shandiz Restaurant in Shandiz village are some of the best restaurants in Mashhad city.

Also, Gooshefil, Qutab , and Koo Koo Shirin are some of the tastiest local Iranian desserts you must try in Mashhad city.

Mashhad City Souvenirs

Mashhad city is very well known for its Saffron plantations around the city. Here is the heart of the production

and marketing of this red-colored spice. Aside from that, classic perfumes , prayers accessories , and jewelry made with Turquoise and Agate are the most common souvenirs from this holy city.

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Mashhad Travel Guide

• heliya erfani

Mashhad travel guide , the meeting place of lovers.

The city of Mashhad is located in the northeast of Iran and with more than 3 million people, it is the third largest metropolis in Iran. Mashhad is known as the religious and tourism capital for the Muslims of the world, and every year it hosts visitant who come to visit the shrine of Imam Reza (a), this city has a great history and culture that attracts the attention of tourists.

The presence of numerous accommodation centers, hotels, hotel apartments, as well as the presence of various tourist attractions, local markets and large and luxurious shopping centers, local and international restaurants, summer resorts, affordable travel costs to Mashhad and many ways to travel to this religious city, has made Mashhad a popular destination for visiting and traveling.

If you are looking for a trip to a city with rich culture and history, unique tourist attractions and a spiritual and religious atmosphere, a trip to Mashhad can be a good option for you. For this reason, in the Sepehran blog, we intend to provide you with the most complete Mashhad Travel guide, so that you can choose the best way to travel to this city and plan your trip according to your budget.

Where is Mashhad?

Mashhad, the metropolis of Iran with a population of about 3,500,000 people, is located in the northeast of Iran, this city is the capital of Razavi Khorasan province and has the largest population and size after Tehran. The city of Mashhad is located in the basin of the Kashaf River and in the Mashhad plain between the mountains of Hazar Masjid and Binaloud.

Due to the Imam Reza shrine, it welcomes millions of Iranian and foreign travelers every year.

Due to the presence of the Silk Road and the shrine of Imam Reza, it is of special importance and was chosen as the spiritual capital of Iran in 1388 and was also known as the seventh Qiblah.

History of Mashhad city

The cities of Mashhad and Tos are located in the Kashaf River and have stone tools belonging to the Paleolithic era and are an important part of the history of Iranian.

After the win of Khorasan in the Islamic era and during the reign of Mamun Abbasi, Imam Reza was martyred in Mashhad and was buried in Sanabad Noghan and was named Mashhad al-Reza.

Sultan Mahmud Ghaznavi built a mausoleum on the tomb of Imam Reza and Sultan Masoud of Ghaznavi also built a wall around the city for protection.

During the Seljuk era, the first dome was built over the tomb, and after the conquest of Khorasan by Shah Ismail Safavi, it became the Shia religion and the official religion of the people of the region. The city of Mashhad was the capital of Iran during the reign of Nadir Shah Afshar.

Why Select Mashhad as our travel destination?

Mashhad is known as one of the popular tourist destinations in Iran for various reasons, including history, culture, nature, and numerous sights. Mashhad is a suitable destination for all tourists. Below are some reasons for choosing Mashhad as a travel destination:

1. Visiting Imam Reza shrine 2. Shopping centers and markets 3. History and culture of Khorasan 4. Nature and scenic areas 5. Weather

Necessary items for a trip to Mashhad:

Some essential items for traveling to Mashhad and staying there are:

Identification documents: carry your national card, birth certificate or driver’s license with you.

Clothes suitable for the season: When traveling to Mashhad, depending on the travel season, you should bring suitable clothes for that season.

Comfortable shoes: For walking around the shrines and walking around the city, it is better to have comfortable and quality shoes.

Bag or backpack: It is better to use a bag or backpack to store and carry personal.

Cash or bank card: to pay the transfer fee or pay to the hotel and other expenses.

Camera and charger: Bring your camera and charger to capture the amazing moments of your trip.

City map and guide: Having a city map and guide is very useful to get to know the city better and see tourist places.

Personal medicines: If you need special medicines, it is better to bring them with you.

Mobile phone and charger: Having a mobile phone and its charger is very necessary to communicate with friends and family or to search for useful information.

Mineral water: It is better to bring mineral water with you during your trip.

How much does it cost to travel to Mashhad?

Mashhad is a touristic and important city in Iran that you should have some money with you to travel to.

The cost of traveling to Mashhad depends on various factors, including the travel season, the number of people who want to travel with you, the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation (hotel, apartment hotel, private house, guesthouse) and the facilities you use for the trip.

Also, the type of transportation (flight, train, bus or private car) will also be another important factor affecting the trip. In total, the cost of traveling to Mashhad includes transportation costs, accommodation costs, entrance fees and visits to touristic places, visit costs and transfer costs in the city (metro, bus, internet taxis, hotel service taxis, etc.), buying souvenirs,and it will be fun.

Also, before traveling to Mashhad, it is better to research your favorite accommodation, restaurants, sightseeing spots and transportation routes and compare prices.

Travel guide to Mashhad with a tour:

Due to the great popularity of Mashhad, millions of pilgrims and tourists from Iran and all over the world travel to this city every year. One of the ways to travel to Mashhad is to use cheap travel tours that include various services. So, these tours can help you plan and make the best use of your travel time.

Mashhad tour is one of the most popular ways to travel to holy Mashhad. his tour is organized in different ways, such as air tour, rail tour, land tour of Mashhad, private car tour of Mashhad, special tour of Mashhad for retirees and office workers, tour tour, etc., the price of which is different depending on the services provided in the tour.

In general, the cost of Tour mashhad includes (accommodation cost, transfer to the place of residence, food cost, inter-city excursions), which each of these will affect the price of the tour.

Travel guide to Mashhad by train:

Traveling by train to Mashhad is one of the most popular and cheapest ways to travel to Mashhad. Of course, this is not always the case and sometimes traveling by train will cost you as much or more than traveling by plane.

The cost of traveling by train to Mashhad depends entirely on your choice, you can plan your trip with a 5-star train and stay at a top 5* hotel in Mashhad, or you can plan your trip with a bus train and stay at a relatively good apartment hotel. The distance between Mashhad and Tehran is about 900 km and it takes 12 hours to travel.

Hotels near Mashhad Railway: Diplomat Hotel, Siraj Hotel, Reza Hotel

Mashhad railway is also located near Tabarsi Street in terms of access to hotels and accommodation centers.

Travel guide to Mashhad by private car

Mashhad is one of the top destinations and the second most populated city in Iran after Tehran, which attracts many travelers and tourists from all over Iran and the world every year. There are different communication ways to reach Mashhad. which we will refer to below:

Travel to Mashhad by private car

• If you are traveling to Mashhad from Tehran and other central cities, after passing Malek Abad, enter Shahid Shushtri highway from the entrance of Mashhad-Nishabour Road and continue towards the city.
• If your origin is the cities of North region and North Khorasan province; From Mashhad-Qochan Road, after crossing Golbahar, you will reach Mashhad.
• If you are going to Mashhad from the south of Iran and the southeastern cities of the country, the Mashhad-Fariman Road or Torbat Heydarieh road is the most suitable for you.

Travel to Mashhad by plane

Every day, a large number of passengers enter Mashhad airport by air. Mashhad is the destination of many flights from different cities of Iran and the world. If you are not sure whether there is a direct flight from your city of origin to Mashhad or not, we suggest you check the Mashhad airport flight schedule.

• Address of Mashhad Airport (Shahid Hasheminejad Airport): Mashhad, at the end of the Islamic Republic Blvd
• Distance from Mashhad Airport to Haram: 8 km
• Contact number: 05133100000
• Mashhad airport taxi and parking number: 05133400253

Pilgrimage to Mashhad

It can be said that visiting the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is one of the most important attractions of a trip to Mashhad for travelers. On a pilgrimage to Mashhad, knowing the following information will help you:

Hotels near Imam Reza Shrine:

• Rose Darvishi Hotel: Imam Reza St., between 1 and 3 Imam Reza
• Darvishi luxury hotel: Imam Reza St., between 24 and 26 Imam Reza

The best restaurants near the shrine of Imam Reza:

• Liali Lebanon Restaurant: Shohada Crossroad, Behjet St., between Behjet 1 and 3
• Moin Darbari Restaurant: Pasdaran St., between Pasdaran 2 and 4
• Rezaei Restaurant: Akhund Khorasani St., between Khosori Crossroad and Gonbad Sabz Square

Attractions located in Imam Reza shrine:

• Gohar Shad Mosque
• Parizad school
• Astan Quds Museum
• Tomb of Sheikh Bahai

Sightseeing places near the shrine of Imam Reza:

Pirpalandoz Tomb: Southeast of Imam Reza Holy Shrine, between Tabarsi Street and Nawab Safavi Street

Reza Bazaar, Mashhad: Beit Al-Maqdis Square (Falake Ab)

Darogheh Historical House: Nawab Safavi Street, Sharistan Razavi, Hoz Mesgaran Row, Darogheh Alley

Naderi Museum Garden: Shirazi Street, Shohada Crossroads, Nader Shah Afshar Mausoleum

The best time to travel to Mashhad

The best time to travel to Mashhad is spring. In April and May, the weather in Mashhad is great and pleasant, and walking in the streets of the city is very pleasant. The city of Mashhad is more crowded in spring and summer than in other seasons. So, if you are not too tired of the traffic and bustle of the city and want to visit the shrine of Imam Reza peacefully, these seasons are the best time for you to travel.

Travel to Mashhad in Ramadan

If you travel to Mashhad during the holy month of Ramadan and are a little lucky, you can be a guest of Imam Reza’s shrine for breaking fast (Iftar). Usually, in the holy month of Ramadan, in addition to the breaking fast (Iftar) program, special programs for fasting pilgrims are held in the Holy Shrine. Visiting the shrine of the Imam reza in the month of Ramadan is very exciting.

When traveling to Mashhad, you can make a reservation through the link to prepare food for Imam Reza.

The best hotels in Mashhad to stay:

Introducing the best hotel in Mashhad is really not an easy task, important factors influence the introduction of the best hotels in Mashhad.

The following hotels are better to other hotels in terms of geographical location, facilities, services, economic value and positive opinions of travelers.

In general, these hotels are among the best hotels in Mashhad and you can have an unforgettable memory by staying in this hotel.

Mashhad hotels for accommodation

Mashhad eco-tourist residences

Eco lodges in Mashhad are good options for spending free time in nature and getting to know the traditional lifestyle.These residences are mostly located in areas away from urban noise and local structures. In these residences, travelers can get inducted with rural life, stay in a calm and natural environment, and benefit from the culture and life of local people.

10 Ecotourism resorts around Mashhad:

•  Suleiman Manor eco-residence
• Kong Kohn Ecological Residence
• Father’s house ecotourism residence
• Chenaristan Ecological Residence
• Khalou Isa ecotourism residence
• Majan eco-residence
• Green house eco-residence
• Golestan Adib ecotourism residence
• Verjavand Ecotourism Residence
• Zak Khoro ecotourism residence

The price of staying in these accommodations usually depends on the facilities, geographical location and travel season.

 Tourist attractions of Mashhad

Mashhad, as one of the tourist destinations in Iran, has many tourist attractions that are visited by millions of tourists and pilgrims in that city every year.

These attractions are very different in terms of history, architecture, religion and nature.

We have collected some tourist attractions in and around Mashhad for you.

Some of these attractions, such as the aqueduct of ghasabeh Shahr Gonabad and Balade Aqueduct of Ferdous Shahr, also exist as registered world heritage in Khorasan province.

Sightseeing places in Mashhad

 Handicrafts of Mashhad

Mashhad, as one of the important cities of Iran, has different and rich handicrafts that represent the culture and art of the people of this region.

Some of these industries are: carpet weaving, turquoise carving, leather embroidery, felting, stone carving.

The best shopping centers in Mashhad

Mashhad, as one of the big cities of Iran, has many shopping centers that offer a variety of goods and products to customers. Some of these centers have a long history and texture, but others are luxury and large centers .

Below we mention some of them

• Reza market in Mashhad
• Zistkhavar, Mashhad
• Goharshad Bazaar, Mashhad
• Proma Mashhad
• Wasal complex
• East diamand

Let’s get to know Mashhad shopping centers more

Souvenirs of Mashhad

Mashhad souvenirs include a collection of local and original products, which are considered as souvenirs of this holy and beautiful city. Some of these souvenirs are handmade by artists and some are edible.

  The best souvenirs of Mashhad

The best restaurants in Mashhad

Selecting good and healthy restaurants and providing food during the trip to Mashhad is one of the most essential points of the trip.

Mashhad is a city that hosts many pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. This city is known as a religious pilgrimage center, but at the same time, it has very good restaurants that meet all the tastes and food needs of the people.

You can access all Iranian dishes and even restaurants that serve Lebanese, Afghani, Italian, etc. dishes.

List of Mashhad restaurants with address

 Mashhad’s famous dishes

Mashhad cuisine is very diffrent, most of these dishes are made with mutton. We suggest that you definitely try the traditional dishes of this city during your trip to Mashhad.

• Ash Lakhshak
• Sholle Mashhad
• Halim Adas Khorasani
• sateri polu

Mashhad cinemas

If you are interested in watching movies and animations, there are many cinemas in Mashhad where you can have good and fun moments with your friends and families.

• Mashhad Africa Cinema
• Mashhad Hoizeh Cinema pardis
• Mashhad peyrozi Cinema
• Quds cinema of Mashhad
• Mashhad Simorgh cinema

They are one of the most famous cinemas in Mashhad.

Mashhad hospitals

Hospitals and medical centers in Mashhad are one of the main and most vital parts of this city for residents and pilgrims who travel to Mashhad metropolis, and some of them are also considered important reasons for travelers to visit this city. Because of having professional specialists and advanced medical equipment, they are known as famous and prominent hospitals in all of Iran for performing surgical and therapeutic services.

• Razavi Hospital of Mashhad
• Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad
• Mehr Mashhad Hospital
• Ghaem Mashhad Hospital
• Taleghani Hospital, Mashhad
• Akbar Children’s Specialized Hospital

They are one of the most famous hospitals in Mashhad.

List of Mashhad hospitals with address

Transportation in Mashhad

One of the most important issues that you should pay attention to before your trip is the transportation methods at your destination. Transportation methods in Mashhad city are of special importance for the easy movement of tourists and city residents.

• Intra-city and inter-city buses
• Linear and internet public taxis

Mashhad metro

• Car rental centers

They are one of the most important methods of transportation in Mashhad.

Mashhad metro is one of the fastest and cheapest methods of transportation in Mashhad, by using the metro you can save your time and reach your destination without wasting time.

Everything about Mashhad Metro

Consulates in Mashhad

The consulates of each country are diplomatic offices of that country in Mashhad, which are used by citizens and travelers to respond to administrative, immigration, and educational requests. In these centers, matters related to issuing and validating documents, issuing visas, passports and other immigration services, legal advice and judicial affairs, business and commercial advice and other services are provided.

• Consulate of Afghanistan in Mashhad
• Consulate of the Republic of Pakistan in Mashhad
• Consulate of the Republic of Iraq in Mashhad
• Consulate of Turkmenistan in Mashhad

The complete list of consulates in Mashhad with addresses and contact numbers

Mashhad Hasheminejad Airport

Mashhad Hasheminejad Airport is one of the most important airports in Iran and is located in the holy city of Mashhad. This airport is known by the international name of Mashhad and provides flight and travel services to domestic and international destinations. In this airport, domestic and international flights are carried out and connect to the inner cities of Iran, Persian Gulf countries, the Middle East and some European countries. A number of reputable domestic and international airlines operate in this airport. Mashhad Hasheminejad Airport has facilities such as a well-equipped passenger terminal, restaurants, shops, currency exchange offices, security services and parking. Also, facilities such as wireless internet, rest areas and medical facilities are also provided at the airport.

Learn more about Mashhad Airport

List of essential telephone numbers in Mashhad

The most important contact numbers you may need when traveling to Mashhad are as follows:

In this article, we tried to provide you with complete information about the trip to Mashhad, so that if you travel to this city, you can plan your trip with more and easier information and the pleasure of the trip will double for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should we go on a trip to Mashhad?

You can use Mashhad’s holiday areas such as Targbeh and Shandiz and other sightseeing and pilgrimage places for recreation and pilgrimage.

What should we eat on a trip to Mashhad?

You can enjoy Mashhad’s traditional dishes such as Shale Mashhad, Halim Ades Khorasani, etc. or visit the restaurants mentioned above.

Where should we stay when traveling to Mashhad?

Darvishi Rose Hotel and Dervish Luxury Hotel are ready to welcome pilgrims

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Mashhad Travel Guide in 2023: All you need to know

Mashhad is a city of profound religious significance that draws visitors from all over the world to honor Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam. Keep reading to learn more about the Mashhad Travel Guide in 2023.

Beyond its religious significance, Mashhad is a city of warmth and hospitality, welcoming travelers with open hearts and minds. You will be welcomed by the genuine kindness and generosity of its people whether you are savoring the city’s delectable cuisine, negotiating for traditional and modern goods in its crowded bazaars, or simply wandering through its green parks.

Iran’s second-largest city, Mashhad, is situated in the nation’s northeast. In addition, it is one of Iran’s holiest cities because it is the location of the Imam Reza shrine, the most important pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims.

Thus, Mashhad draws countless numbers of tourists each year—religious and non-religious—who come to enjoy the city’s rich heritage, culture, and friendliness. In this travel guide, we’ll examine the top attractions in Mashhad and offer helpful advice for tourists.

You will undoubtedly be fascinated by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of its mosques, mausoleums, and bazaars. The bustling environment that surrounds the city adds to its allure in addition to its natural beauty.

Mashhad Travel Guide in 2023:

In this Mashhad travel guide in 2023, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to this captivating city.

Travel to Mashhad

The Mashhad International Airport (MHD) is a sizable international airport that serves both domestic and international aircraft. There are several ways to get to and from the airport, including taxis, buses, and private transportation, and it is around 20 kilometers from the city center.

It is simple to travel to Mashhad from practically anywhere in the world thanks to the airport’s good connections to important Iranian cities as well as those in other Middle Eastern, Asian, and European countries.

Top tourist attractions in Mashhad

Most of the city’s prominent tourist attractions provide visitors with a look into the intriguing history and traditions of Mashhad. In this part of the Mashhad travel guide in 2023, we talk about some of the top tourist attractions of the city:

• Imam Reza Shrine: The Imam Reza Shrine is the most important destination in Mashhad that attracts millions of visitors each year. The shrine complex is a huge collection of structures, courtyards, and gardens located around the tomb of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam. Visitors can visit the complex’s mosque, library, museums, and other structures and take part in religious ceremonies held in the shrine complex.
• Nader Shah Museum: The famous Persian king, Nader Shah’s life and legacy is honored in a museum named after him. Weapons, armor, clothing, and other items from his life are on display in the museum together with other artifacts.
• Kooh Sangi Park: Kooh Sangi Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Mashhad. It is a commonly visited attraction for both locals and tourists who come to enjoy the green scenery, fresh air, and breathtaking views of the city. The park includes hiking paths, picnic areas, and a small lake, along with an array of different trees and plants.
• Vakil Abad Zoo: Vakil Abad Zoo is a large and properly maintained zoo located in the marginal areas of Mashhad. The animal park is home to an extensive species of animals, including tigers, lions, bears, and monkeys, as well as a variety of birds and reptiles. Visitors can explore the zoo and observe the animals in their natural surroundings.
• Ferdowsi’s Tomb: The legendary Persian poet, Ferdowsi rests in peace in his Tomb, which has become a popular tourist destination for many years. His most renowned work is the Shahnameh, an epic poem that is regarded as one of the most outstanding pieces of Persian literature. The tomb is located in the city of Tus, which is about 20 kilometers from Mashhad.

Where to stay in Mashhad

Mashhad has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, there is something for everyone.

The most popular areas to stay in Mashhad are around the Imam Reza shrine, which is the city’s main attraction, and in the city center, which is home to many of the city’s restaurants, cafes, and shops. In this part of the Mashhad travel guide in 2023, we introduce some of the best hotels.

Some of the top hotels in Mashhad include:

• The five-star Homa Hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers luxurious accommodations, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and several dining options.
• The five-star Ghasr Talaee International Hotel is famous for its elegant architecture, stunning views, and exceptional services. It offers luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.
• The four-star Darvishi Hotel is known for its unique design, which features a central courtyard and a beautiful rooftop garden. It offers comfortable rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.
• The three-star Parsian Kowsar Hotel is located just steps away from the Imam Reza Shrine and offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, and a coffee shop.
• The two-star Mashhad Hotel is an affordable choice located in the city center, offering simple but comfortable rooms as well as a restaurant.

Where to eat in Mashhad

Mashhad’s cuisine is a harmonious blend of Persian, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern traditions, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and fragrant spices. Some famous dishes include Kebab Torsh and Abgoosht while the city’s sweets and desserts, such as Sholeh Zard and Baklava, are also popular.

Travelers have the opportunity to try the local cuisine at restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls, or shop for fresh ingredients and spices at the bazaars. In this part of the Mashhad travel guide in 2023, we introduce some of the best restaurants.

Some of the top restaurants to eat in Mashhad include:

• Shandiz Restaurant: This is one of the most famous restaurants in Mashhad, known for its delicious kebabs made from high-quality meat. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is decorated with traditional Persian carpets and artwork.
• Almas Shargh Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the Goharshad Bazaar and offers a unique dining experience in a historical setting. The menu features traditional Persian dishes. including stews, kebabs, and rice dishes.
• Torsh-o Shirin Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in traditional Persian cuisine, with a focus on stews and rice dishes. The menu features a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and it has a relaxed and casual atmosphere.
• Bahar Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes, which are prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The menu also includes a variety of traditional Persian dishes and international cuisine.
• Sabzeh Restaurant: This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of healthy and delicious meals made from fresh and organic ingredients. The menu includes a variety of salads, soups, and vegetarian dishes.

Mashhad Climate

Mashhad’s climate is semi-arid, featuring hot summers and cold winters. Despite the low rainfall and aridity, the city is surrounded by abundant greenery and stunning landscapes.

The summer months are the perfect time to explore parks and go for a swim, while beautiful yellow colors are on display during the autumn. In winter, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, and spring brings blooming flowers and fresh greenery, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and unwinding.

Mashhad Souvenirs

Those who travel to Mashhad should know that the city is known for its unique and diverse souvenirs that reflect its rich cultural heritage and traditions. In this part of the Mashhad travel guide in 2023, we introduce some of the city’s best souvenirs:

• Saffron: Mashhad is famous for its high-quality saffron, which is considered to be one of the best in the world. It is highly valued for its strong aroma, distinct flavor, and vibrant color. Visitors can purchase saffron in various packaging sizes, from small packets to larger quantities at an affordable price.
• Turquoise: Turquoise is a precious stone commonly used in Mashhad with a long history of use in traditional Persian jewelry. Visitors can find a variety of turquoise jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and bracelets, as well as other decorative items such as vases and sculptures.
• Ceramic dishes: Mashhad is known for its vibrant and colorful ceramic dishes, which are often decorated with intricate designs and patterns. Visitors can purchase ceramic dishes in a range of sizes and styles, from small bowls to larger serving dishes.
• Hand-woven carpets: Mashhad is home to some of the finest Persian carpets, which are known for their intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Visitors can purchase hand-woven carpets in a range of sizes and styles, from small prayer rugs to larger room-sized carpets.
• Sweets and confections: Mashhad is famous for its delicious sweets and confections, including saffron brittle, nougat, and traditional Persian pastries such as Baklava. Visitors can purchase these treats at local sweet shops and bakeries.

Things to Do in Mashhad

• Visit the Imam Reza Shrine: As mentioned earlier, the Imam Reza Shrine is Mashhad’s primary attraction and a must-visit destination for all tourists. They can explore the mosque, library, museums, and other buildings within the complex, as well as participate in religious rituals and ceremonies to further enhance their experience.
• Explore the Bazaar: Mashhad’s bazaar is a vibrant and extremely crowded marketplace, where visitors can find a wide range of goods, including spices, fabrics, jewelry, and souvenirs. It is a great place to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly shopkeepers.
• Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Mashhad is well-known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Persian and Central Asian flavors. Visitors should try local food such as kebab, ash-e reshteh (a type of noodle soup), and sholeh zard (a sweet rice pudding).
• Take a Day Trip to Tus: The city of Tus, located approximately 20 kilometers from Mashhad, is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including Ferdowsi’s Tomb, the ancient city of Tus, and the Tus citadel. A day trip to Tus is a great way to gain insight into the whole city’s historical and cultural significance.
• Relax in a Traditional Bathhouse: Mashhad is home to several traditional bathhouses (Hammams), where visitors can relax and unwind in a traditional setting. The bathhouses typically offer a range of services, including massages, steam baths, and body scrubs.

Some useful travel tips to Mashhad:

• Dress Code: Female visitors to the Imam Reza shrine are required to dress modestly, covering their heads, arms, and legs. Women must cover their hair with a scarf, while men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts.
• Currency Exchange: It is recommended to exchange currency at official exchange offices or banks, as street money changers may offer unfavorable rates.
• Language: Persian is the official language of Iran, but many locals in Mashhad speak some English, especially those working in the tourism industry.
• Transportation: Mashhad has a good public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation for tourists, but it is recommended to negotiate the fare before getting in a taxi.
• Safety: Mashhad is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions at any place. The local authorities take measures to ensure the safety and security of the visitors.

In summary, Mashhad is a fascinating city with a rich history, culture, and religious significance. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Iran, whether for religious or cultural reasons.

With its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, Mashhad is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. We hope that this Mashhad travel guide in 2023 has equipped you with all the necessary information you need to visit this incredible city. By following the tips and recommendations in this travel guide, visitors can make the most of their time in Mashhad and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer.

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Mashhad Tourist Attractions

The spiritual serenity at imam reza holy complex.

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Mashhad Travel Guide | Top Tourist Attractions

The capital of Khorasan Razavi province in northeast Iran and the second-largest city in the country, Mashhad is best known for its beautiful pilgrimage shrine of Imam Reza. 

#eavartravel

 mashhad tourist attractions, top 17 mashhad attractions , 1. imam ali reza holy shrine (a.k.a. haram-e imam reza in farsi), 2. nader shah afshar tomb and museum, 3. astan quds razavi central museum, 4. koohsangi recreation place, 5. goharshad mosque, 6. reza bazaar in mashhad, 7. daroogheh historical house, top attractions near mashhad, 8. tomb of ferdowsi in tous, 9. chaldareh tourist complex, 10.torghabeh and shandiz county, 11. kalat-e-naderi, khorshid palace of kalat (sun palace), 12. tomb of arsalan jazeb, 13. kashafrud valley, 14. qadamgah mausoleum, 15. khajeh rabi's tomb, 16. akhenjan tower.

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Mashhad Travel Guide

Mashhad, the capital of the Razavi Khorasan Province, is known as one of Iran’s holiest cities. Mashhad is home to one of the country’s holiest sites, which is visited by millions of pilgrims each year. It is said to be the ultimate resting place of Islam’s eighth Imam, who was poisoned in 817 CE. During your visit to Mashhad, you may take use of a relatively modern bus system that provides safe and dependable transportation.

A relatively recent bus system provides dependable transportation while exploring in Mashhad; it can take you from mausoleums, mosques, and shrine complexes to bustling bazaars and lively eateries. The city’s stringent clothing requirement applies to both male and female tourists. Here we listed all the necessary information you need to plan your itinerary for Mashhad holiday.

How to get to Mashhad?

Mashhad Hashemi Nejad International Airport is Iran’s second-busiest airport behind Tehran-Mehrabad. In 2016. It is connected to 57 destinations and has frequent flights to 30 cities within Iran like Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, etc and 27 destinations in Central Asia, the Middle East, East Asia and Europe like Turkey, Dubai, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iraq, Lebanon, Kuwait, Afghanistan, India, Russia, Tajikistan, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia.

For a road trip, it is 900 km from Tehran to Mashhad for a nonstop drive. It takes about ten hours. So you can have itineraries like some beautiful Caravanserai in Semnan, Abr forest in Shahrood and Khar Turan National Park on your way to Mashhad as well.

Sightseeings in Mashhad

Shrine of imam reza (s) complex.

First of all, the city is renowned for the shrine of Imam Reza (S). In fact, the shrine is in the center of Mashhad. It is 600,000 square meters and has seven courtyards.

Actually, the magnificent tile works, calligraphy ornament, porches, and minarets adorn the shrine.

Although only Muslims can visit the inner sanctuary, everybody can enjoy its architecture. The shrine with its golden dome in the center attracts everybody who visits Mashhad.

Every year lots of Muslims travel to Mashhad to pilgrimage the Imam Reza Holy Shrine.

Astan-e Qods Museum

The museum is in the shrine complex. It houses stamps, medals dedicated by Iranian athletes, and carpets. You can also visit the previous zarih (an ornate, lattice structure that encloses the grave in the shrine) at the museum. It was replaced in 2001.

Nader Shah Afshar Mausoleum

You can pay a visit to the mausoleum of Nader Shah (1688-1747) while traveling Mashhad. It is in the downtown of the city. There is also a museum, which features documents, artifacts, and military assets. The Iranian architect Houshang Seyhoun built the mausoleum during the Persian calendar year 1342 (1963-1964).

Nader Shah Afshar was one of the most powerful Iranian rulers in Iranian history, ruling as Shah of Iran (Persia) from 1736 to 1747 when he was assassinated during a rebellion.

The Tombs of Renowned Poets

A modern monument in the city of Nishapur, the Mausoleum of Omar Khayyam is a must-see place. The fantastic mausoleum was reconstructed in 1934 by prominent architect Houshang Seyhoun. The inspiring mausoleum surrounded by a garden is a great place to spend time and tranquil. Omar Khayyam (1048 –1131) was a great Persian poem, philosopher, mathematician, and philosopher. He is widely known in English by a translation by Edward FitzGerald (Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam). The Mausoleum of Attar Nishaburi also known as Attar of Nishapur (1145 – 1221) near Khayyam tomb is located in Nishapur. The octagonal dome has four entrances.

Things to do in Mashhad

Shopping in mashhad bazaar.

The 800m-long Reza covered bazaar is designed to look semitraditional but is a 20th-century creation. Shops within sell a wide variety of products and upstairs you’ll find many jewellery stalls proffering turquoise mined at nearby Neishabur. However, their sales pitch is often more impressive than their gems.

Mashhad is the world’s saffron capital, and you won’t find a better price anywhere else than the bazaars surrounding Fakaleh Ab plaza. The spice, which is more costly than gold gram for gram, is a great keepsake or gift.

Mashhadi carpets are likewise highly sought for, so expect to bargain your way to a decent deal.

Exploring in Kang Village

Many off-the-beaten-path joys may be found in rural Khorasan, which are frequently difficult to reach by public transportation but well worth the effort of renting a private cab or taking a taxi to get there. One especially attractive example is Kang, a small hamlet approximately an hour’s drive from Mashhad.

The village is filled with mud-brick buildings that are built along the slopes of the mountains, providing a unique opportunity to learn about one of the few groups that still practice such a traditional way of life.

Read also: Unmissable Things to Do in Mashhad

Lodging in Mashhad

Ghasr talaee international hotel.

The hotel is a five-star luxury accommodation in the city of Mashhad. It boasts 358 rooms on 20 floors. In fact, it has double rooms with some towards the shrine, atrium rooms, president, royal, imperial, and Qajar suites.

In addition, rooms and suites are well-equipped and some of the amenities including a minibar, hairdryer, safe box, LCD TV, electric kettle, and air conditioning. Princess suites and rooms are specially designed for new couples.

Ghasr Talaeee Hotel features six restaurants with Iranian and international dishes and fast foods. Besides, it also has two coffee shops, plus a café lounge in the lobby.

The hotel is on Imam Reza blvd., the main street leading to Imam Reza Shrine. Other attractions nearby include the Tomb of Nader Shah, Gonbad Kheshti, Bazaar Reza, and Goharshad Jameh Mosque.

Madinah Al-Reza Hotel

The hotel is the closest five-star hotel in Mashhad to the shrine of Imam Reza. Madinah Al-Reza Hotel with Iranian-Islamic design, makes you feel a spiritual atmosphere. In fact, it has 320 rooms in a nine-story building.

Multiple room types are available: regular single, double, and triple rooms, plus suites and apartments with two or more bedrooms. Besides, the hotel features specific rooms for disabled guests. It is a kid-friendly hotel and providing activities for them in the kid’s room.

As mentioned before, the top feature of Madinal Al-Reza Hotel is near the shrine of Imam Reza. It takes only 15 minutes to get to the shrine. Historical attractions such as the Tomb of Nader Shah, Gonbad Kheshti, and the Anthropology Museum of Mashhad are also within a walking distance.

Darvishi Royal Hotel

The hotel is a five-star luxurious accommodation on Imam Reza Boulevard, Mashhad. In fact, it has 223 rooms and a glass atrium design.

There are various types of rooms for everyone, from economy rooms and suites to high-end accommodation with eastern designs. Besides, all rooms have a TV, fridge, minibar, air conditioning, electric kettle, safe box, and free internet access.

Darvishi Royal Hotel is a seven-minute drive to Imam Reza Shrine. Other nearby attractions are Goharshad Mosque, Kooh Sangi Park, and Tomb of Nader Shah Afshar. Mashhad Hasheminejad International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.

Read also: Best Hotels in Mashhad 2021

Best Time to Visit Mashhad

Located in the North East of Iran, In Mashhad, the summers are hot, arid, and clear and the winters are very cold, dry, and partly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from -2C (28°F) to 34C (94°F) and is rarely below -7C (18°F) or above 37C (100°F).

April, May, September, and October may be the best time that you can visit this legendary city.

Mashhad Local foods and desserts

Shishlik (Shashlik)

If you’re visiting Mashhad and want to try traditional food, you must try the most renowned traditional dish, which is a type of KEBAB known as 6Kebab or Shesh Kebab, or “Shishlik” in our language.

It’s a really excellent type of kebab that originated in the little town of “Shandiz,” which is around 16 kilometers from Mashhad and where the majority of these types of restaurants are situated.

Iranian Rock Candy or Nabat (also called rock sugar) is a type of confectionery mineral composed of relatively large sugar crystals.

A sweet is made out of Sugar, Optional Ingredients (Saffron, Cumin, Lemon, Cinnamon, Thyme, Mint, Ginger) and mostly will be served by tea. Familiar dessert in whole Iran and especially in Mashhad.

Among different types of Nabat, the Saffron Nabat is the most favored one.

Mashhad Souvenirs and handicrafts

Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, commonly known as the “saffron crocus”. The vivid crimson stigma and styles, called threads, are collected and dried for use mainly as a seasoning and colouring agent in food.

The best Iran saffron can be found in Mashhad. The most famous saffron companies in Iran are located in Mashhad. Bahraman, Zaran, Sahar Khiz are well-known Persian saffron brands.

Barberries is also known as Zereshk in Iran, is another popular Souvenir in Mashhad. The city of Ghaen, 100 km from Khorasan, is the main center for the production of this delicious red seed.

Barberry is found all over Mashhad and most pilgrims buy barberry along with saffron as souvenirs. On the other hand, the anti-inflammatory healing properties of this red seed should not be overlooked. it can be used as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of disorders, such as diabetes, liver disease, etc.

Restaurants and cafes in Mashhad

Hezardastan traditional teahouse.

Hezardestan is one of Iran’s most beautiful teahouse-restaurants, with a museum-like basement full of carpets, samovars, antique metalwork and countless knickknacks around a small fountain. The menu is limited to Ghormeh, chicken kabab, dizi or mashed Halim Bademjan (lamb and mashed aubergine). Beware when ordering tea: while a cup costs IR23,000 the tea ‘set’ costs ten times that (IR230,000).

Baba Ghodrat

Part of an impressive cultural complex, this memorable restaurant serves kababs, trout and huge bowls of mirza ghasemi (IR160,000) within the spacious brick vaults of a Qajar-era caravanserai. It’s around 10 minutes’ walk from the southeast end of the Reza-covered bazaar.

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Welcome to what could be the friendliest country on earth. Iran is the jewel in Islam's crown, combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome.

Attractions

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Iran and beyond

Tips and how to travel to Iran in 2024

By Joan Torres 99 Comments Last updated on April 11, 2024

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What used to be a country that everybody believed was filled with danger and nuclear weapon lovers is, today, becoming the destination with the most exponential tourism growth in the world.

From the most hospitable people to the oldest history, stunning architecture, the most desolate deserts, green mountains, islands, and many other things, slowly, travelers are realizing that Iran is the ultimate destination.

However, since it has opened to tourism very recently, traveling in Iran is not that easy, as it presents several difficulties and peculiarities, ranging from strict Islamic rules to credit card issues and even the need to get special travel insurance.

But don’t worry.

After visiting this country twice for more than 2 months, on this blog, I have compiled loads of travel tips for traveling to Iran  which will help you to plan your trip easily.

In this travel guide to Iran you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit
• Accommodation
• Access blocked site s
• Travel Insurance
• Useful books
• Money costs & budget
• Solo female travel
• The people and culture
• Religion and Islamic Law
• Transportation
• Internet & SIM Card
• Food and alcohol
• Other curiosities
• More information

How to book hotels, flights and tours in Iran

Because of the sanctions, foreign cards or popular sites such as booking.com can’t be used in Iran, but now you can thanks to 1stQuest .

1stQuest is a local company that offers services such as visa LOI, hotel booking, tours, domestic flights, and travel insurance for Iran.

5% discount on ALL bookings with voucher code:

🪪 Visa for traveling to Iran

Visa on arrival (voa) for iran.

Everybody, except for citizens of Canada, UK, US, Afghanistan , Bangladesh, Colombia, Iraq , Jordan, Nepal, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka, can get a visa on arrival at any of Iran’s international airports.

The only real requirement is to have a valid host contact

During the process of getting your VOA, the authorities may contact your host, whether they are a hotel or a friend. If they can’t contact them, they may make you wait at the airport for a very long time.

Waiting time ranges from 2 to 6 hours

At the very least, you will have to wait for 2 hours at the airport.

On my second visit, I had to wait for more than 5 hours, as I had a brand-new passport and didn’t have a return flight ticket.

How much does the tourist visa for Iran costs?

Prices range from 40€ to 150€, depending on nationality.

I hold a Spanish passport and paid 75€ and I believe that that is the price for the other European nationalities.

You can’t get a VOA if you enter Iran overland

If you travel to Iran by land, you will need to arrange your visa in advance.

How to get your visa in advance

If you don’t want to wait at the airport, want to secure your visa or enter overland, you should get the visa in advance.

For this, you need to get an authorization code from an authorized company, which you will use to easily collect your visa at the airport or embassy (if you enter by land).

I strongly recommend the guys from 1st Quest , a very reliable company that offers plenty of different services for traveling in Iran.

The visa authorization code only costs 29€ but remember that with my voucher code, you can get an additional 5% discount. 

My voucher code: ATC-QST

Typically, they give you up to 30 days

A one-month visa is the standard number of days they give for traveling in Iran.

But you can easily extend your visa

You can extend it twice for 30 days. This means that you can be in Iran for up to 90 days. Extensions can be arranged in all provincial capitals.

Iran and Israel

For more details regarding the Israeli stamp, read: Avoid the Israeli stamp – FAQ

Iran doesn’t stamp passports anymore – An Iranian stamp on your passport can be an issue, especially if you are traveling to the USA. That’s why they are now giving your visa on a separate piece of paper.

⛅ Best time to travel to Iran

Iran is a massive country with many climatic zones, which range from the dry regions of the Persian Gulf to the wetlands of the north-western provinces.

Ideally, the northern mountains should be visited during late spring, summer and early autumn. On the other hand, the classic Persian cities of Esfahan, Yazd, Kashan, and Shiraz can get utterly hot in summer, so winter, spring, and autumn are the optimum months for visiting them.

Moreover, the southern provinces, which include Qeshm Island , Bandar Abbas, etc. should be avoided during the summer months, as temperatures may reach up to 50ºC and the air is extremely humid.

Last, Tehran has extremely cold winters and overwhelmingly hot summers. Therefore, spring and autumn are the ideal months for traveling to Iran.

You can also visit the Persian cities during the summer months, no problem, but just be prepared for the heavy heat!

What to actually do in Iran From following the classic Persian historical trail to contemplating the magnificent Islamic architecture, trekking, visiting the Persian Gulf Islands, meeting Iranian nomads , making local friends or even making a pilgrimage trip to the city of Mashhad, Iran can be a destination for all types of travelers, both history and adventure lovers.

🏨 Travel tips for accommodation in Iran

Because of the sanctions, websites like Booking.com don’t have hotels listed in Iran.

How to book a hotel in Iran?

• Via a phone call
• You just show up at the hotel and try your luck
• Via a travel agency (if you go on a tour)
• Via 1stQuest  

Yes, a good alternative would be booking your hotels via 1stQuest because, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels, they have hotels listed in all the main cities in Iran. 

You can get a 5% discount in ALL your hotels bookings.

Use my promotional code: ATC-QST

By the way, keep in mind that the Government of Iran tends to block this kind of travel sites, so 1stQuest may not work when you try to connect from Iran. If this is the case, there are 2 possible solutions:

• Book all your hotels in advance, before traveling to Iran.
• Get a VPN to access all blocked sites. For more information, read how to find the right VPN for Iran . 

For more options, check: Best areas to stay in Tehran .

Couchsurfing in Iran

If you are on a budget, you should know that Couchsurfing is very popular in Iran and a great way to get immersed in the local culture, as Iranians are particularly hospitable and you are likely to be treated like a royal guest.

However, bear in mind that some hosts may be extremely intense and may want to be with you at all times.

🔓 How to access blocked sites in Iran

Fact: in Iran, many websites are censored, and that includes:

• Some Google services
• Pornography sites
• Against the Compass  (Yes, my website)

If you wanna post Facebook updates or just check the international news, you must get a VPN and the one I recommend is ExpressVPN

If you have no clue about VPNs, you should read my tutorial: How to find the right VPN for Iran .

🚑 Travel insurance for Iran

Because of the sanctions, few insurance providers cover travel in Iran. The one which does, however, is IATI Insurance .

Moreover, travel insurance is a must requirement for anyone trying to get a visa on arrival at the airport.

I strongly recommend IATI Insurance for these reasons:

• They have loads of different plans for all travelers: from families to budget backpackers
• Covers for up to 1 year trips
• Readers of this blog can get an exclusive 5% discount .

For more options, read How to find the right travel insurance for Iran

📚 Useful books to plan your trip to Iran

This is just a selection of a few books but since Iran is such a complex country with so much going on, I have compiled this list containing the best books on Iran , classified into history, novels, and politics.

Iran travel guide by Bradt

Bradt has always the most comprehensive guides to the most off-beat countries. I love Bradt because they give plenty of tips for the independent traveler, as well as loads of cultural insights.

Iran travel guide by Lonely Planet

I personally prefer Bradt but, if you are a Lonely Planet fan, they have just released their latest edition for Iran.

Best political novel – The Cypress Tree

The story of a writer and his family (currently a BBC journalist) who had to live in exile in the UK after the 1979 Revolution. The book is not only a critique of the dictatorial regime but also, he explains, in a very nostalgic way, all the things he misses from Iran.

🛫 How to get in Iran

It’s mandatory to have a travel insurance to get your visa on arrival in Iran. Because of the sanctions, most insurance companies don’t provide coverage for Iran, but IATI Insurance does Get your exclusive 5% discount if purchasing via this link.

How to travel to Iran by air

If you come by flight, Tehran would be the most obvious destination, as it has a large number of connections from Europe, especially Germany and Turkey. 

Read: Things to do in Tehran in 2 days

Shiraz has also an international airport and there are daily, very cheap flights from Dubai. 

Read: Things to do in Shiraz

How to travel to Iran by land

Iran shares a border with many countries but remember that, if overlanding, a visa is not available on arrival, so you will have to get it in advance.

Iraq – Surprisingly easy (the one I used). See here the full report .

Turkey – Another surprisingly easy border to cross.

Armenia – An easy, friendly border.  See here the full report .

Azerbaijan – Also pretty easy. Check Caravanistan for more information . 

Pakistan – A real adventure. See here the full report .

Afghanistan – Apparently, coming from Herat is relatively easy. Warning! In 2021, this border was taken over by the Taliban. For more information, read my Afghanistan safety guide

Turkmenistan – I am really jealous because you managed to get a Turkmen visa.

United Arab Emirates – You can take a ferry from Sharjah to Bandar Abbas.

💰 Iran Travel Guide – What you need to know about money

In Iran, they use the Iranian Rial (IRR) and approximately:

1 USD = 42,350 IRR

The Iranian Rial fluctuation is massive

Make sure to check the current rate just before leaving for Iran because the value is so unstable.

Exchanging money in Iran

Exchange offices are available everywhere and €, USD and GBP are always accepted.

Moreover, there is also the black market, which means that, in all cities, you will always find random people willing to buy your currency.

It is fine to exchange with them but just make sure to count your money twice, as some of them may try to trick you.

Wait, Rials or Tomans?

Since their currency is extremely low, in order to simplify things, most places will tell you the prices in Tomans, which is the same value divided by 10.

In the beginning, it is a bit confusing but you will quickly get used to it.

Foreign credit cards don’t work

Because of the sanctions, you can’t use your international credit card when you travel in Iran, so bring cash.

However, you can buy a local credit card

For people who don’t want to be carrying lots the cash, you can buy a local credit card and top it up. There are quite a few companies, for example, Mah Card Iran Travel .

(Note that I have never tried it but was recommended by a friend). 

The way it works is that you sign up on their website, give your passport details and they will bring your credit card once you arrive at your hotel in Tehran .

You will give them your cash and pay the 20€ service after receiving your card. I didn’t use it but I’ve been told it is a reliable company.

And you can pay by credit card absolutely everywhere

You will be surprised to know that local credit cards are accepted all across the country, including at street food stalls and grocery shops from rural areas.

Entrance fees

Most touristic sites, including mosques, gardens, and archaeological sites, charge between 100,000 and 150,000IR, which is 5 to 10 more times than what the locals pay.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Iran?

Iran is it safe to visit iran.

That’s it. It is a safe destination with no terrorism and a very low crime rate.

The UK Foreign advice says that you should avoid traveling to Balochistan and the area bordering Iraq. However, I think that this information is totally biased. You should be fine.

In Iran there is no Islamic State

On many occasions, my friends from back home told me: Be careful with ISIS in Iran!  I love my friends but this is a very naive comment because, first of all, Iranians are Shia, hence there are no Iranian linked to ISIS. And second of all, ISIS never made it to Iran.

If you aren’t convinced yet, I urge you to read this comprehensive analysis about safety in Iran .

Iran travel tip – Consider getting off the beaten track I traveled to Iran in 2015 and 2018 and, in only 3 years, things had changed significantly. The classic Persian cities of Yazd, Esfahan, Shiraz, and Kashan are filled with tour groups, overpriced restaurants, and souvenir shops. Local interactions, which usually involve house invitations, are less frequent and rip-offs are common. However, if you just step slightly out of your comfort zone, experiences with the locals can be totally different. Therefore, I strongly recommend visiting other places near the cities, as well as discovering other provinces, such as Golestan, Kurdistan , or the cities of Tabriz and Mashhad.

💃 Solo female travel in Iran

Iran is an Islamic dictatorship and, at the same time a day-by-day growing tourism destination, so it is not surprising at all that, every day, this Middle Eastern country is attracting more and more travelers, including many solo females. 

Many women have come to me asking for my opinion towards traveling to Iran as a solo female. Well, despite the fact that I am a man and tend to get a very different experience than most women, I don’t know a single lady who hasn’t had a wonderful experience in Iran so, based on their opinions, I can certainly tell that Iran is, definitely, a safe destination for women. 

If you want to know more details about it, I recently interviewed Eveline from Earth Wanderess , who shares her travel expertise about solo female travel in Iran . 

🕌 The people and culture

Remember that, in Iran, the internet is censored – including Facebook or WhatsApp. If you want to access them and navigate safely, you must get a VPN (Virtual Private Network) and I strongly recommend ExpressVPN , the one I personally use. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ExpressVPN

Iran is a highly educated society

Iran is the developing country with the largest number of highly educated people I’ve ever traveled to. Even in very rural, remote areas, such as Golestan, I met people who had Ph.D. degrees from Barcelona and Cambridge.

Iranians are not Arabs

People in Iran are not Arabs but Persians, which is a completely different ethnicity.

Nevertheless, it is ethnically diverse

From the Kurds in Iranian Kurdistan to the Turkmens of Golestan and the Arabs from the Persian Gulf shores, in Iran, there are several ethnic minorities.

Hospitality in Iran

Iranians are famous for their hospitality.

Don’t be surprised if someone who you just met 5 minutes ago invites you to his house, a random dude who you never talked to pays for your meal and, basically, everybody treats you like a king.

They love foreigners and are striving for the world to realize that they are a very peaceful society.

Do accept house invitations

You can’t say you have entirely traveled to Iran if you didn’t have a meal or stay at someone’s home.

Just say yes. If you get slightly off the beaten track and having a meal at a stranger’s house is 100% guaranteed.

Wait, what is tarof ?

If you are traveling in Iran for long enough and have experienced strong local interactions, the locals will tell you about something called tarof .

Basically, tarof is when a local tries to pay for your meal (or anything else) just because it is in their cultural code but they don’t really want to.

Say no and, if they insist more than 3 times, it means that it was a real invitation.

However, if they back off, it means that it was a bluff, so this is called tarof .

Farsi is the official language

Farsi (or Persian), which has nothing to do with Arabic, is the country’s language.

They also use the Arab alphabet.

Educated people speak English

In major cities, most educated people speak impeccable English and, in rural areas, they will speak the basic stuff.

Officially, the weekend is on Thursday and Friday

Iran follows the official Muslim calendar, so Friday is the official day off and, for most companies and the public sector, Thursday and Friday is the weekend.

Read: Things you need to know before traveling to Kyrgyzstan

🕌 Religion and Islamic law in Iran

Most iranians are shia.

Iran is the country with the largest Shia population.

However, there are Sunni minorities

In Balochistan, Golestan and the Persian Gulf, there are significant Sunni communities.

Iran is an Islamic Republic

Prior to 1979, Iran was ruled by a Shah who was a puppet of the USA and was leading the country to poverty. This led to a massive revolution, the Shah was overthrown and the clerics came to power, founding the Islamic Republic of Iran.

It’s also a religious dictatorship

In Iran, freedom of speech, demonstration, and protest is extremely limited and several rules based on Sharia law apply to everybody, including tourists.

Dressing code for men

You can’t dress in short pants, even when it is 40ºC. Other than that, you will be fine.

Dressing code for women

Women need to wear a headscarf and can’t show either their shoulders nor their curves. This means that you must wear a long, loose dress or skirt over your pants.

And of course, alcohol is illegal

In Iran, alcohol is forbidden and only available on the black market.

For more details, check the Food & Alcohol section.

Even in this situation, many Iranians are not religious at all

Across your journey, you will meet many Iranians from all ages who don’t care about religion at all, more than in any other Middle Eastern country.

This is because, before the 1979 Revolution, Iran was quite secular.

🛺 Travel tips for transportation in Iran

Traveling around iran by public transportation.

They go absolutely everywhere and are the preferred choice for locals.

There are two kinds of buses, the budget one and the VIP, which is around 70% more expensive.

Trust me, get the VIP bus

Seriously, the difference between VIP and non-VIP is so huge. VIP buses are extremely more comfortable, have AC and don’t smell. The cheap buses are horrible and, since they only cost a few USD, paying a 70% extra is not a big deal.

Where to buy your bus tickets

It was kind of a pain in the ass to buy them, as local sites don’t accept foreign cards, so you had to ask your hotel (who charges a high commission) or go to the bus station, which is always far away from downtown.

Because of the sanctions, in Iran, most booking sites don’t accept international foreign cards. Before you could book them via 1stQuest but they are not offering this particular service anymore. However, you may still use 1stQuest for visa services, hotels, flights, travel insurance and tours. 

Traveling around Iran by domestic flight

For those who are short on time, there are a lot of domestic flights, connecting most cities in the country.

You can check flight schedules and book your tickets through 1stQuest, and you can get a 5% discount on ALL flights:

With voucher code: ATC-QST

Train is also an option

Some cities have train stations. I personally took a train from Tehran to Gorgan and a 23-hour train from Mashhad to Bandar Abbas. It was pretty cool but not all cities have train stations plus they run less frequently than buses.

Get Snapp for taxis

Snapp is like the Iranian Uber and, as far as I know, it works in Tehran, Esfahan and, perhaps, in other big cities, as well. By default, it is cheaper than regular taxis plus you save all the negotiation hassle.

Tehran, Esfahan, Shiraz, and Mashhad have metro lines. They are cheap, fast and reliable!

Driving in Iran

You can self-drive in Iran, no problem, but just be aware that, like in all the Middle East , people drive like crazy.

Crossing the streets in Iran

For me, the worst thing about Iran is that nobody gives a s*** about pedestrians.

You should know that, when you cross the street, even if you go over a pedestrian crossing, cars will never slow down but will just dodge you. It’s crazy. You should always cross sticking close to a local.

💻 Internet & SIM Card

Wi-fi sucks.

A lot, practically everywhere.

But internet data is good

Wi-Fi sucked so much that, sometimes, I was using my 3G to watch movies.

Get an IranCell SIM Card

In my experience, the staff of IranCell shops speak good English. For just a couple of USD, you will get plenty of GB and calls. I suggest you check their website for the latest plans.

In Tehran, there is an IranCell shop inside Imam Khomeni metro station.

🍲 Food and alcohol in Iran

What is persian cuisine like.

Seriously, I could write an entire post about food in Iran. It is quite varied and many provinces have their own local specialties. Usually, most meals will be accompanied by tonnes of rice and bread.

The most popular appetizers have an eggplant base and main courses tend to be meat with gravy. Kebab is a fancy meal they eat outside.

So far, my favorite dishes are  bademjan , an eggplant and tomato stew;  ghormeh sabzi , a meat stew with plenty of spices and herbs;  ash , a breakfast consisting of a vegetable soup with chickpeas, noodles and caramelized onions; and dizi , lamb (or chicken) smashed with tomatoes, potatoes and chickpeas in a clay pot.

Vegetarians will be OK

For breakfast, they will serve you either ash (the vegetable soup) or an omelet with tomato sauce, as well as cheese, watermelon, and nuts.

For lunch and dinner, there are many eggplant-based vegetarian options, lentils, and rice.

The tea culture is really strong and a sign of hospitality.

The coffee culture is growing!

One of the differences I noticed on my second trip to Iran is that there were coffee places, serving authentic coffee absolutely everywhere.

It was, of course, pricey compared to any other drink but having breakfast over a good cup of coffee is a real must for me.

Alcohol is only available on the black market

It usually comes smuggled from Armenia or Iraqi Kurdistan .

But you are likely to drink

Once, I was hitchhiking in Golestan when a young couple from Tehran picked me up and offered me vodka shots. Another day, the owner of a café served me a real rum mojito.

I also drank home-made liquor at someone’s house in Shiraz and was offered a beer in Qeshm Island.

As I said, many Iranians are not very religious and, if you hang out with local people, eventually, you will be able to have some drinks.

Some curiosities you will see when traveling in Iran

You will see that in most major cities, especially in Tehran and Esfahan, a lot of women wear a bandage on their nose. That is because they just came from surgery. Many Persian women have an arched nose and some of them have a bit of complex about it.

The clerics

Those Muslim priests that you see all over Iran are Shia clergy. Most of them wear a white hat, which means that they are normal people.

However, those wearing a black one are, somehow, related to the prophet Mohammed. Within a period of 2 months, I spotted two of them. 

Creepy mannequins

In all bazaars all across the country, clothing shops have extremely creepy mannequins. They tend to be dirty, miss one eye or they have no jaw. I don’t know if the shopkeepers realize how weird this is. 

Drought in Iran

In Iran, lack of rain is a real problem and, across the country, many lakes and rivers, including the river that goes through Esfahan, are completely dry. This is one of the biggest concerns for most Iranians. 

Read more interesting facts about Iran

❗ More information for your trip to Iran

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Remember to always use my code –  From booking a hotel to visa services, hotels, flights, travel insurance and tours, if it is via  1stQuest , remember that you can use my 5% discount code, as many as you want, whenever you want:  ATC-QST

All guides and articles for traveling in Iran destination

• Iran itinerary
• Best Books about Iran
• Travel insurance for Iran
• VPN for Iran
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Qeshm Island Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Shiraz
• A trip to the desert of the Kaluts
• Trekking Guide to Zagros Mountains
• Meeting the Qashqai People
• Fars Province Travel Guide
• Visa Guide for Iran
• Masouleh Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Golestan Province
• Iran-Iraq border crossing
• Is Iran Safe?
• Darband Travel Guide
• Best Hotels in Tehran

Travel guides to other countries in the Middle East

• Travel Guide to Oman
• Palestine Travel Guide
• Syria Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Iraq Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
• Yemen Travel Guide

You might also like our Pakistan Travel Guide or Azerbaijan Travel Guide .

You will also be interested in: Where in the Middle East is safe? and The most beautiful places in the Middle East .

99 comments

Hey Buddy, you wrote a great helpful article! almost covered all the tips. Btw , I would like to introduce our hostel in tehran to readers of your blog if its possible, HI Tehran Hostel offers excellent value budget accommodation in a convenient location of Tehran, stay with us and see what a difference a stay makes..

Im so happy to see that you wrote a excellent article about my country and specially my city and its beautiful valley(alamut). i would be more than happy to help any travelers in this adventure AS WE ALWAYS SAY (Taste Iran with locals)

Most welcome! Will come back there in September :p

I have just spent a goo hour reading your articles, they are very well and intelligently written! And also more informative than other sites. I am planning a trip to Iran in September too! Safe travels and keep writing awesome articles!

Thanks and hope you will enjoy it! I am traveling back to Iran in October 🙂

Informative excellent article. Though there was small mistake in foods names.

I get what you mean about the heat and humidity in the southern provinces Joan. We house sat during the cool, rainier season in Doha, Qatar last year, across the Persian Gulf from Iran. The homeowners noted temps to 50 C PLUS humidity. Meaning sometimes it feels like 140 F LOL! Insane. Rocking post bro.

In summer, the weather Gulf Area is really bad! I lived there for a few years and couldn’t handle it 😀

Did anyone invite you? Get lost to where you came from.

Thank you for all this interesting information, accurate and recent on top of it! On that subject, something that could also help although quite new it is the mobile app Fairswap. It allows to exchange cash currency in real-time by meeting with each other at a pre-agreed location.  Widely, people post their need in foreign currency and if there is someone nearby facing the reverse need, then they can get in touch each other and if both agree, they will meet and make the swap.

By chance, this could be a pleasant way to facilitate connections with locals and get unexpected additional tips.

Thank you Joan for this beautiful blog you have. very accurate and informative, hope you enjoy Iran even more next time. Cheers

Always a pleasure to go back and enjoy Iran 🙂

I’ve also been in Iran recently the people were very hospitable. It’s good to know that there’s a better way instead of carrying cash which caused lots of stress, Daricpay is a credit card for tourists that is acceptable all around the country.

HI, i’m going to Iran in mid April. I have small DJI drone, but i’m not sure if i should take it. I saw you had drone in Iran. How is the law about drones there?

It is risky. If you get caught they will definitely confiscate it, so be careful. When I travel, I check in the main body and then I put the battery in my hand luggage. This way, they never find it.

Hello from Poland, I am planning to visit Iran this summer (unfortunatelly I only have the summers off so I am bracing for the heat). My question is about the windmills of Nashtifan. I haven’t found any info on them here on the blog. (If there is though, please direct me to it). Have you been there? Do you know what’s the best way to get there? Is that area safe since it’s so close the the Afgan border? I would appreciate any info on the matter. Thanks Igor

Hey Igor, haven’t been there, unfortunately, but maybe you should first go to Mashhad? If so, stay at Vali’s and I am sure he will know all the details about getting there

Thnks a lot Joan!

Hey Igor, I’m sarah from Iran,Nashtifan is a city in the Central District, Khaf County,Razavi Khorasan Province,in my country and it’s very beautiful and totally safe and it’s famous because the ancient windmills.

Hello. dear friend,wind mills of nashtifan is in khorasan razavi province. If you want to go there, you have to go to mashhad and then get a bus to khaf. There are taxis that take you to nashtifan. But nashtifan is hot in the summer, the degree is about 50selcius. So I recommend you to go there in spring or atumn.

Also you can arrive ther from islam qaleh- dogharoon border crossing and then get a taxi to nashtifan.

Hi There, how about traveling to Iran while pandemic?is it easy or any term and condition to apply?

Thank you Joan for information and especially the beautiful pictures

Hi You are very welcome to Iran in advance  I am SHADI a licensed tourist guide in Iran. I can speak English and Turkish fluently and live in Kashan. I can show you my city, Kashan and its around and many hidden spots in this area and even all around Iran. I can arrange your whole trip in Iran like accommodations, driver guide / tourist guide to make your trip more enjoyable here in Iran. If you like to know better about me and need more information, please feel free to contact me. It will be my pleasure to meet you in Kashan or even all around Iran and be part of your enjoyable trip in Iran. Best regards Shadi

I came across your blog since we are both members of the “Nomadic Matt’s Superstarblogging Blogging Business Course.

I loved reading your blog posts about Iran and found them very helpful. I will be heading to Iran on September 4 and I cannot wait to see Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd, Persepolis, Kashan, Tehran and a few other places. Before leaving on this trip, I would like to publish a collaboration post “Travel bloggers tips for Iran” and I would be very happy if you contribute and write 150 to 200 words plus send me one photo (preferably in landscape format). I would love to get your impression and what you liked most. Since I am blogging bilingually in English and in German and have so far published every blog post in both languages I would love to translate the post also into German (by myself not automatically by Google Translate).

I have published similar posts before my trips to Uzbekistan, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and before my trip to the Maldives. If you are interested I could send you the links to those posts.

My email address is [email protected] .

I would like to publish the blog post before I leave for Iran on September 4, therefore, I would be happy if you could send me your piece till August 30.

I would be happy if you contribute. Thank you so much in advance.

Cheers Vanessa

Hey joan , I’m sarah from Iran ,i would like to say thank you for your beautiful blog, you have almost mentioned everything,next time when you went to Iran go to Guilan province,Rasht city it’s my hometown I’m sure you will love it♥️♥️

Thank you for your kind message 🙂 I’d really like to go there and explore the mountains of that area

I suggest you to visit Damavand mountain which is highest volcano in Asia. And if you heard about Iranian legends and Myths you would realize that Zahak who is Villain is perisond in Damavand.

thanks so much for your tips, and I want to add that Iran has some of the best dishes in the world. The Persian cuisine consists of a delicious array of stews and different rice among many other dishes. And of course Persian bread.

Your website is not blocked in Iran. I’m using it in iran without vpn

that’s really good news to hear 🙂

Would love to visit but I just can’t bring myself to go to a country where gay men (like myself) have the death penalty.

As an Iranian and also someone who is pro-equality for the members of LGBTQ I wish the situation was different, and that you didn’t have to worry about things such as sexual orientation. It’s true that Iranian government doesn’t have a shining reputation in their treatment of members of LGBTQ community, some of what’s being reported is often exaggeration. It’s not easy to condemn anyone of “sodomy” without compelling evidence, like actual witnesses! (Not that this should be an issue to begin with) What I’m trying to get at is that officials often look the other way, unless there is a case of rape, which was reported by the western media a few months ago, but it was really misrepresented, in that case someone who happened to be gay had raped a boy, that case is not representative of members of LGBTQ community, but a criminal that was proven to be guilty of rape. In either case, I’m not defending the current Iranian government treatment of LGBTQ, and I’m entirely in favor of equal rights for them.

Finally, regarding your point about your sexual orientation, no one will know your sexual orientation unless you bring it up yourself, I for example as a heterosexual male will not demonstrate anything outside of social norms just because I’m heterosexual, for example if I’m in a county whose general female population happen to be my type, I’m not going to approach them in every single instance or be aggressive, you have to gauge the person’s interest before taking a step towards the next step in your relationship. All I’m trying to get at is that there are many, many gays in Iran whether the Iranian government likes it or not, and you may come across them.

Sorry for the long post.

Can I get some information about Tehran university through what’s app number?

It seams that entrance fees to many tourist places are highly increased from October 23. Can you tell me more? Thanks Norberto

Hi Norberto, I don’t know yet but as soon as I get the updated info, I will update the post accordingly

Hi, I live in Tehran and the increasing is not highly. for example the most expensive ticket is less than 2 dollars, visiting Azadi tower.

Hi yes the entrance Fee is increased but it is not to that value that become impossible for tourists to pay that. It is currently about less than 2.5 EUR at an average.

Hello, how are you? First I want to congratulate you on the excellent blog. My wife and I are going to Iran in March 2020. I’m sure your blog will greatly help us.

thanks Carlos, enjoy Iran!

Hello, Transasia Express has started it’s operations once again between Ankara – Tehran. 60 hours long train journey is a beautiful alternative to flights.

Hi Joan Hope You are fine. I want to introduce some more topics about Iran gradually that may be interesting for you and other followers of your fantastic blog! Now I want to talk about the nature of Fars Province and its touristic potential. In Fars Province there exists different mountain peaks that are fantastic for mountaineering. Dena is the highest one and also more, like Ghashmastaan, Delo, Ronj, Bel ans more. It is really worth having experience about that. If these exist interest, I can give more detailed information about them. 🙂

Hi I’m Aria ,as an iranian, your blog was so interesting for me but I noticed the wrong information in this topic :Iran is an Islamic Republic. You have written about shah and you said he was puppet and leading country to poverty! Sorry but you are totally wrong , everything , really everything that you see even our culture is because of shah . I wonder to know who gave you this misleading information about shah.

Lmao Joan i love that part you explain tarof Dude you know iran really well, even better than meee Come here more! -Yasi

I’ve got a big question You said almost everywhere accepts local credit card like you were really interesed… You mean thats… surprisng or something?

Yes, it was definitely surprising. Paying by credit card for a bunch of oranges from a street food stall is something I have never seen before, especially in a developing country, and when I say food stall I mean a local man sitting on the floor with a box

Thanks, Joan! This a great guide for Iran. How easy it is to get accommodation for a solo female traveler? Are there any restrictions?

Hi Joan! Amazing blog full of very useful information! Just reading about it is giving me the itch to pack my back and hop on the first plane to Tehran! 🙂 I was just wondering, how is it with wild camping around Iran? Is it legal? Is it safe? Would it be a good idea to do it in May-June-July? Also by any chance, would you know what is the covid situation at the moment? Thanks so much!! And keep safe 🙂 Aneta

Hi Aneta! About COVID, all I can tell you is that Iran is not issuing tourist visas at the moment, unfortunately. About camping, is definitely safe, not sure if it 100% legal but many travelers have done that. May to June is great time weather-wise, all across the country, The souther shores might be a bit hot though.

Thank you Joan! 🙂

Hello Joan thanks so much for this post! I wanted to ask if you’ve taken Iran Air airlines from or to Azerbaijan? I will be flying to Tehran from Baku and all I can find on Western websites are very long non-direct flights… However, if I visit websites selling Iranian airlines they have direct flights but the calendar is different and I do not understand anything. Any tips on this, please? Also, I saw your last post from January saying Iran does not issue tourist visas. Does that mean I cannot get one in the airport upon arrival? kind regards, Dre

Hi Dre, probably there aren’t any flights because the country is not open for tourism yet. No, as of today, you can’t get in Iran as a tourist. Only business and medical visas.

Hello. I’m an Iranian person. l went to Balochistan province in the southeast of iran in 2019. l didn’t have any safety problem. It’s an amazing province. In north and center of province, there are mountains and desserts, but in the south, tropical fruits are grown. The best season for north and center is spring, and for south is September or july. If you go there, visit maki mosque in zahedan, taftan volcano in khash, remin and beris and gowatr fishing ports in chabahar, kahir and tang gelfeshan in konarak(gelfeshan is a big hill that throws out muds) and tropical gardens in sarbaz and zarabad. If you be smart, you won’t have any safety problem there. Thanks.

Hello, I lived in Iran in the 70s, in Esfahan. I made several Iranian friends. If I get a visa, and a tour guide, may I see these friends when I get there? I have their address, I haven’t heard from them in almost 40+++ years. I haven’t seen them either. Will I he able to visit them? Please let me know.

Hi Katie, the question would be, why wouldn’t you? 🙂

Well I’ve heard I must have a tour guide and that I’ll be watched. I mean can I go to their house without the guide? Do I have to go on a tour. I’ve already seen everything. Thank you for responding.

Hi Katie, some nationalities like Canadians, USA or UK do need to hire a guide but this isn’t like North Korea, and the guide doesn’t need to be with you at all times.

Hello, which Iranian provinces have you traveled to, have you gone to Lorestan ??? Lorestan is one of the most famous and beautiful provinces of Iran, which is one of the best provinces of Iran for tourism. It has very tasty kebabs and food, and kind and hospitable people, I suggest you come.

I took out €400 for my Iran trip. This will create a lot of rials. Will this last enough for my time in Iran, which is 10 days?

Hi Ron, it’s impossible for me to say, since each individual has completely different needs. For me, I target at least 50-60€ a day

Hi! I bought tickets to IRAN (before checking if I can get TOURIST VISA). The flight is tomorrow :((. Do you know if country is open for tourism yet and if I can get a tourist visa at the arrival?

Thank you in advance.

Hi Denis, the country is currently closed for tourism. No visas are issued.

Hello Joan I’m tourist guide and thank u so much for your useful information, beside, I would like to note that WhatsApp is not blocked in Iran but Telegram, Facebook and YouTube are blocked that can be unblocked easily by VPN. best regards Hengameh from Iran

Thanks for this article– very helpful. I will be in Kurdistan Iraq and will have a couple of days to cross over to Iran, do you recommend what places to see that are relatively close to the border as I don’t have much time? Also, I’ll arrange for my visa at the embassy in Iraq since I’m crossing the border by land, but can I hire a driver from Iraq for my entire trip or will I have to change at the border? Thank you!

Mariwan and Sanandaj are nice places, both within Iranian Kurdistan Iraqis need a visa to enter Iran. It’s easy for them, but they need to apply, so I think it could be hard to find a driver who takes you across the border

Thank you for replying and good to know. Will I need a visa into Iran if I am only visiting the Kurd religion of Iran as a USA passport holder? I will only have the visa from the Kurd region of Iraq.

Hey, so Iran Kurdistan is just part of Iran and don’t have special visa requirements. For going there, you just need an Iranian visa. Unfortunately, USA passport holders can only get it through a travel agency.

Hello Joan, Short question. I am planning to travel to Iran in 2022. Does it still hold that ”Iran doesn’t stamp passports anymore”? I am planning also to travel to the USA this year as well through an ESTA visa application (they are not enthusiastic about Iran, as you know). Thank you! JC

Hello, as far as I know, they still don’t stamp passports

Hello Joan: This is an amazing post. My wife and I are planning our trip to Iran. We are really keen on visiting Tabriz, Shiraz, and Tehran. If we were to buy carpets in Iran and try to bring them back to the US – I mean are tourists harassed at the Tehran Airport? In our past trips we had them delivered home but not sure how it will work in Iran. Any guidance is appreciated. Thank you.

Hi there, I really can’t advise you on this… but in my experience, travelers ar never harassed in the airport

Hello people I’m ali and I’m from Iran Iran is safe in 2022, but if you’re a woman, you have to be careful about your hijab, because it is important in Iran. If you are a man, never take your wife or girlfriend in street. Because police will come and… So, WhatsApp is not blocked in Iran, But YouTube, Facebook, Telegram, BBC, twitter and porn sites are blocked. And when you want to use of them you have to connect to VPN I myself use of windscribe Oh I forgot…! PubG is blocked too And about internet… It is too expensive and it is never free

But with all this, Iran is a very beautiful country. You can see different cultures in this country. In different parts of Iran, you will see very good and beautiful cultures. You can also find historical monuments from thousands of years ago In Iran, you can have a lot of entertainment, such as a zoo, a game city, etc., and most importantly, its wonderful restaurants. You can eat local Iranian food that is amazing.You will be amazed at any city or province you visit. The climate in Iran is wonderful. It is humid and rainy in the north and hot in the south. Never miss agriculture in the south of the country.I want to introduce several cities that if you come to Iran, be sure to visit them Tehran Gildan Mazandran Golestan Tabriz Qazvin Zanjan Mash’had Esteban Shiraz Ahvaz Bandar abad Booshehr Yazd

تهران گیلان مازندران گلستان تبریز قزوین زنجان مشهد اصفهان شیراز بندرعباس بوشهر یزد اهواز

Thanks for your interesting post about Iran. have you any Instagram page? and have you had any post on Instagram about Iran?

Hi, yes I do: https://www.instagram.com/againstthecompass/

absolutely no problem 🙂 All touristic hotels welcome anyone

Hola Joan, In a couple of weeks we will be traveling to Iran. We have heard that it is difficult to get diesel/petrol as a foreigner in a petrol station and that a local fuel-card is required when refuelling. Do you have any information about the situation right now?

Mil gracias por el blog! es magnífico 👏 Saludos, Irati

Hello Irati, unfortunately, I am not aware of any of this you mention. Perhaps you should ask in a FB group called Overlanding Middle East

Iranian citizens’ fuel card is used for paying for “subsidized price”. But anyone who doesn’t have fuel card, still can pay for unsubsidized price. However, you need an Iranian Bank card (something like credit card) to pay the price in gas station. In fact, you need such a card to pay everywhere. I don’t know how foreigners solve this problem. Maybe other travelers’ can help you.

Hi Joan, I just love your blog! You have so many interesting and useful information. I have wanted to go to Iran since a long time but I will probably have vacation in December. Will it make sense to go during this month or the weather will be a problem? Many thanks

Hello Valentina, thanks for your message. December is great for going to Iran. While the north of the country will be cold, the south will be great. Personally, I’d prefer to travel to Iran in December than anytime between June and early september-.

Hi Joan, so sorry for my late answer and thank you so much!

Hi Joan, Two weeks ago I checked the search engine for flights and buses form 1stquest and it was pretty useful, but now the links are not working and the website seems to have changed. They don’t offer this service anymore?

Hi Riccardo, you are right, they removed those 2 services because they need to fix a few things on their end but they are currently working on it, even though they didn’t say a specific date

Thank you for your amazing and helpful blog! We would like to come to Iraq Kurdistan and Iran in October this year. Do you know if land boarders from Kurdistan to Iran are open for tourists at the moment? Thank you!! Daniela

It’s usually open but they recently closed due to the clashes in the Green Zone of Baghdad, not sure if they opened in back already but it should

Hi Riccardo, Thanks for this wonderful article! In the section : How to get in Iran – by land, you don’t mention Turkey. Is it on purpose? Be safe, H

we forgot it, thanks for pointing this out!

Hotels and hostels in Iran advice against getting your visa at the airport, because of high rejecting rates. There is an pre-authorisation code that one apply for through an official goverment website. The form is easy and clear. But apparently it can take up to a few weeks to be approved. So apply early! The information on the 1stQuest website is useful, BUT I CANNOT recommend their pre-authorisation application. The form on their website is truely the worst website I have seen in years. It is not even possible to fill in one’s home address or email normally. And it can take hours, even days, for anyone from 1stQuest to reply to questions about the form – and then some of the answers I received were wrong!

Hello and thanks for the great article. What about currently going to Iran? When were you last there? Have you heard from any travellers? My concern is the random arrests that the foreign offices of several EU countries are warning about. What’s your take on it?

Travelers are still going there all the time, everything is great and smooth

Fantastic article. This is one of the best travel blogs I have come across.

I have a specific question and I wonder if you would be able to provide any information by any chance. So, I hold an Indian passport and plan to go to Iran next (I am into travel vlogging), now while trying to get some pre-trip information, I came across some sources suggesting that if I visit Iran, it would be impossible for me to travel to the us in the future.

I did some more research and there is conflicting information with come people having a hard time getting visas to the us (post Iran trip) and some people are like they faced no issues at all. I am also aware that Iran does not stamp passports anymore and also, I will probably club my Iran trip with another border country so I can cross a land border and skip being on flight records to Iran too …, however. … Indian passport is a nightmare to have as it is due to obvious reasons but people like me suffer greatly… now I don’t want any risks because a US visa will open access for me in future to a lot of countries, especially south America…. What do you suggest?

Much appreciated.

I am not sure what is the policy for Indian citizens for Europeans, if you want to travel to the USA, you have to fill out a form and get a simple pre-authorization where they ask questions like: have you ever committed a felony, and stuff like that.

One of the questions is: Have you ever been in any of the following countries since 2011? and Iran is on that list. If you say yes, your entry will be denied, and you’ll have to get the visa via the embassy, but everyone gets it anyways, it’s just a slower process.

As an Indian citizen, you have to go to the embassy anyways, so I can’t tell whether they will be any additional requirements.

Hi Joan, thanks for the excellent, in-depth information in this article. Do you think wi-fi is completely unreliable throughout Iran, including hotels in bigger cities (e.g. Tabriz, Tehran)? I work remotely and don’t need much data for work. Am I just better off buying a SIM card and working with hotspot?

Mobile data is surprisingly fast, much better than WiFi!

Hi Joan, Thankyou for the fantastic article. I am looking at travelling from Pakistan via the land border crossing into Iran and eventually through to Turkey. As this route passes through Balochistan and near to Afghanistan, are you aware if it will be safe to undertake in 2023? Cheers,

Hi Sam, as far as I know, if using that border, you’ll be escorted right from the border to the city of Quetta (for free). Independent travel not allowed there due to security concerns but since you’ll be escorted there’s nothing to worry about

You note that the Visa On Arrival program does not work for US citiizens (like me) and others of problematic passport. Do you have special instructions for us? I understand we can only get a visa by booking a tour through a licensed operator. Last I checked, there were none organized and I cannot afford one on my own.

If an formal tour is still necessary, I’d like to join up with an already-organized one, especially with like-minded travelers (i.e., curious, frugal, ‘backpacker’ types, more interested in culture/life experience than product/service consumption, etc.)–but I’m willing to be flexible.

Know of any?

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