2026 Iran Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

The World’s Passport Power Ranking 2026 Sometimes we all dream of exploring the world… Walking through Europe’s historic streets, experiencing Japan’s beautiful seasons, or discovering the hidden islands of Asia. But starting a journey is not only about flight tickets and travel budgets. The passport in your hand can also decide how freely you can explore the world. 🌍 A passport is more than just a travel document. It is a key that opens the doors to new countries, cultures, and unforgettable experiences. According to Passport Index, based on Visa-Free, Visa on Arrival (VOA), and eVisa access, here is the Passport Power Ranking: 🌟 The World’s Most Powerful Passports 🥇 No.1 🇦🇪 UAE Passport 🥈 No.2 🇸🇬 Singapore Passport 🥉 No.3 🇪🇸 Spain / 🇲🇾 Malaysia Passport ⭐ No.4 🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇱🇺 Luxembourg, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇫🇮 Finland, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇦🇹 Austria, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇯🇵 Japan ⭐ No.5 🇲🇹 Malta, 🇭🇺 Hungary, 🇵🇱 Poland, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇱🇻 Latvia, 🇰🇷 South Korea ⭐ No.6 🇷🇴 Romania, 🇸🇮 Slovenia, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇧🇬 Bulgaria, 🇪🇪 Estonia ⭐ No.7 🇨🇾 Cyprus, 🇱🇹 Lithuania, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom ⭐ No.8 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein, 🇳🇿 New Zealand ⭐ No.9 🇮🇸 Iceland, 🇦🇺 Australia ⭐ No.10 🇺🇸 USA, 🇲🇨 Monaco 🌍 The Most Restricted Passports Some passports face more travel barriers due to visa restrictions and limited global mobility. 🥇 🇦🇫 Afghanistan 🥈 🇸🇾 Syria 🥉 🇮🇶 Iraq 4️⃣ 🇵🇰 Pakistan 5️⃣ 🇸🇴 Somalia 6️⃣ 🇾🇪 Yemen 7️⃣ 🇵🇸 Palestine 8️⃣ 🇰🇵 North Korea 9️⃣ 🇸🇸 South Sudan / 🇧🇩 Bangladesh / 🇪🇷 Eritrea 🔟 🇸🇩 Sudan / 🇮🇷 Iran / 🇱🇾 Libya 11️⃣ 🇳🇬 Nigeria / 🇪🇹 Ethiopia At the end of the day… A passport is not just a document. It carries our dreams, our destinations, and the places we hope to discover someday. ✈️ If you could choose any passport in the world… Which passport would you choose? 🌍 #PassportPower #PassportIndex #TravelFreedom #VisaFreeTravel #WorldTravel #TravelInspiration #TravelFacts #ExploreTheWorld #DreamToTravel #BucketList #TripcomCreator #Wanderlust

Everyone has heard about places like Japan, Italy, or Switzerland. But sometimes the countries that leave the strongest memories are the ones that rarely make it onto people's bucket lists. These are five destinations that completely exceeded my expectations and deserve far more attention. 🇯🇴 Jordan Most people know Jordan because of Petra, but the country offers so much more. Sleeping under the stars in Wadi Rum, floating in the Dead Sea, exploring ancient castles, and experiencing incredible hospitality make Jordan one of the most diverse destinations in the Middle East. 🇴🇲 Oman A country that surprised me from the very first day. Dramatic mountains, turquoise wadis, endless deserts, and beautiful traditional towns create an incredible mix of landscapes. Oman feels authentic, peaceful, and refreshingly untouched by mass tourism . 🇲🇾 Malaysia Malaysia is often overshadowed by Thailand and Singapore, which is a shame. You can explore modern cities, tropical islands, tea plantations, ancient rainforests, and some of the best food in Asia – all in one trip. It's also one of the easiest and most comfortable countries to travel around. 🇮🇷 Iran Few places have changed my expectations as much as Iran. Stunning architecture, historic cities, colorful mosques, and some of the warmest people I've ever met make it an unforgettable destination. Every city feels different, and every conversation becomes part of the journey. 🇹🇯 Tajikistan If you love mountains, Tajikistan is pure magic. The Pamir Highway is one of the world's great road trips, with dramatic landscapes, remote villages, high-altitude lakes, and scenery that seems almost unreal. It still feels like a true adventure destination. These countries may not always appear on the usual travel lists, but each one gave me experiences I still think about long after returning home. Sometimes the most memorable journeys begin with choosing the places that everyone else overlooks.

Golestan Palace is one of the most beautiful and historically significant architectural complexes in Iran, located in the heart of Tehran. Built in the 16th century, it served as the residence for Persian shahs. This palace is a stunning example of Persian architecture and art, blending elements of European and Eastern styles. Main attractions: · Architecture: Golestan Palace is renowned for its magnificent halls, elegant mosaics, and colorful stained glass windows. Pay special attention to the Hall of the Sun (Shams-ol-Emareh), which stands out for its unique architecture and luxurious interior. · Gardens: The complex is surrounded by beautiful gardens where you can enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty. Various trees and flowers grow here, creating an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. · Museums: Inside the palace, there are several museums showcasing rich collections of art, including antique paintings, ceramics, and jewelry. Visitor tips: · Best time to visit: It is recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds of tourists. · Guided tours: Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and culture associated with the palace. · Photography: Don’t forget to bring your camera! The palace and its surroundings offer plenty of picturesque spots for photos. How to get there: Golestan Palace is located in central Tehran and is easily accessible by taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is "Panzdah-e Khordad." Golestan Palace is not only an architectural marvel but also an important part of Iranian history. Visiting this site will immerse you in Iran’s rich culture and allow you to appreciate the beauty of Persian art. Don’t miss the chance to see this magnificent palace during your stay in Tehran!

It’s no exaggeration to say this is one of the reasons that attracted me to travel to Iran! The perfect combination of light and shadow is so beautiful! 🇮🇷 Pink Mosque: officially called the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque Built during the Qajar dynasty from 1876 to 1888. Its exterior walls are decorated with a large amount of exquisite glazed tiles, with pink being the most striking color, hence the name Pink Mosque. 🌟 Architectural features: Inside the prayer hall, there are more than ten slanted columns with snake patterns, carved and adorned with intricate tile designs. The floor is covered with exquisite Persian carpets. When sunlight passes through the colorful stained glass windows and shines onto the crimson carpet and white carved stone columns, the entire space looks like a dreamy kaleidoscope, colorful and magnificent. ⏰ Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, it’s recommended to visit before 9 AM because after the sun changes direction, you won’t see this view anymore. ⚠️ Only phones are allowed inside, and you need to wear a long robe which is provided at the entrance. 🎫 Ticket price: 2,500,000 rials, approximately 16 RMB. The mosque is not very large; it’s a prayer room, and there are really a lot of people!

Last month, a friend mysteriously told me, "In Iran, I touched the moonlight from two thousand years ago." In the photo she sent, her fingertips lightly touched the light pillars of the Pink Mosque in Shiraz, with colorful light and shadows spreading over the Persian carpet, as if touching the magic of One Thousand and One Nights. It turns out she followed an archaeology professor to secretly enter the "backstage of Persepolis, where ordinary people can't go," making rubbings of cuneiform inscriptions in an unopened area; under the Thirty-Three-Arch Bridge, she brewed tea with locals and listened to an elder recite Hafez's poetry in Persian; on the night spent in a desert tent, with the Milky Way hanging over Yazd’s old city, she suddenly sent a voice message: "The sacred site of the Ming Cult from The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber hides a light older than the starry sky." This 8-day, 7-night Persian journey moved me not only because of the kaleidoscopic light dome of the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque and the secret relief passage in the cliff tombs of Naqsh-e Rostam, but also because of the scroll map quietly unfolded by the accompanying experts. Friends who have traveled with Honghu know: true luxury is turning world civilization sites into your private classroom. 【👉Click the link below🔗 to unlock your own One Thousand and One Nights】

#hellohalloween Traveling in Iran is like stepping into a living museum. You’ll wander through Persepolis, the magnificent ruins of the Persian Empire, and explore mosques whose tiles shimmer like jewels. Each corner reveals thousands of years of civilization — Zoroastrian fire temples, caravanserais on the Silk Road, and royal palaces from the Safavid era. Yet, Iran is also modern, vibrant, and alive. It’s a country where past and present coexist beautifully, inviting travelers to witness both history and humanity.

Iran—A Land of Unexpected Charm 🌟 “Iran isn’t as scary as you think, but it’s surprisingly warm.” The Persian people are so hospitable that many return! 🏛️ 1. Persepolis – Capital of the Persian Empire This 2,500-year-old ancient city was once the center of the Achaemenid Empire. · Highlights: Colossal carved columns, ancient deity motifs, and a desert atmosphere. · Best for: History lovers and ancient and mystical photography. 🕌 2. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque – The Pink Mosque of Shiraz A mosque renowned for its stained glass windows and morning sunlight. · Highlights: Intricate tile patterns, Persian carpets, and rainbow lighting. · Best for: Fantasy, artistic, and cute scenes. 🏰 3. Golestan Palace – The Rose Palace in Tehran An ancient palace decorated with mirrors and glazed tiles. · Highlights: Ornate halls, chandeliers, and beveled mirror walls. · Ideal for: Persian luxury and royal scenes. 🌉 4. Khaju Bridge – Isfahan An ancient bridge with both architectural and artistic functions. · Highlights: Arches, reflections on water, and locals lounging. · Ideal for: Old town shots, romantic riverside scenes. 🏞️ 5. Dasht-e Lut Desert – Lut Desert The world's hottest desert with an unusual landscape. · Highlights: Tall sand dunes, unusual rock formations, and dramatic shadows. · Ideal for: Adventure, sci-fi, and desert fashion. 🏘️ 6. Abyaneh Village – A red-brick village. An ancient village that still retains its traditional culture. · Highlights: Red houses, traditional costumes, simple lifestyle · Best for: Rustic, warm, or bohemian scenes 🏔️ 7. Mount Damavand – The highest volcano in the Middle East Iran's iconic snow-capped peak · Highlights: Panoramic views, snow-capped mountains, mountain climbers · Best for: Nature, adventure, or minimal scenes 🛍️ 8. Tehran Grand Bazaar – Tehran's grand bazaar A historic market filled with local goods and vibrant life · Highlights: Persian carpets, spices, bustling crowds · Best for: Street life, lifestyle, or cute, chaotic scenes 🕌 9. Imam Square (Naqsh-e Jahan) – Imam Square in Isfahan One of the largest squares in the world Surrounded by mosques and palaces · Highlights: Islamic architecture, fountains, tourists · Best for: Grand scenes, daytime, or documentary 🏛️ 10. Sa'ad Abad Palace – Summer Palace of the Qajar Dynasty Located in a lush garden in northern Tehran · Highlights: Luxurious buildings, museums, lush trees · Best for: Calm scenes, spring scenes, or contemporary royal scenes #PersianHeritage · #IranianArchitecture · #MosqueMagic · #TileArtLover · #PinkMosqueVibes · #AzadiTowerMoments · #IsfahanElegance · #TehranTales · #ColorsofIran · #StainedGlassWonder · #PersianPalette · #IranInBloom · #MosaicMood · #ArtInEveryArch #TravelIran

Finally, the long-awaited Persepolis in the Middle East! The scenery from the world history textbooks was there! The best season is the cool winter, but I visited in midsummer. It was still cool, so I was prepared for the scorching heat of over 40 degrees Celsius, but I was able to sightsee safely. It was smaller than I expected...

🚶🚶😎😎 Bay

1. Tajrish Bazaar Address - Tehran, Iran Highlights - Full of delicious food on Shahdari Street. Inside, there is a local market atmosphere, lined with shops selling everything from daily necessities to colorful fruits. But what you can't miss is the melon juice (I don't know the name). The deliciousness is doubled from the hot weather and having a delicious fruit juice. It's so awesome. Score - 9

#tattoo

For Chinese ordinary passports, I have carefully selected 6 popular destinations that truly offer “no-threshold, ready-to-go” visa-free access with moderate flight times. This guide is categorized into “island relaxation,” “cultural exploration,” and “city strolls,” packed with practical tips. --- Category 1: Ultimate islands (complete relaxation) 1. Seychelles (one of the three gems of the Indian Ocean, top luxury) · Visa policy: unconditional visa-free, 30-day stay allowed. · Flights: no direct flights currently, transfer in Dubai or Abu Dhabi (total about 15 hours). · Must-do: see sea coconuts in May Valley; bike on La Digue Island and take photos at Anse Source d'Argent beach; snorkel with sharks at Sainte Anne Marine Park. · Cost: expensive. Guesthouses about €100/night, five-star hotels 10,000+ CNY/night. Dinner costs 300–500 CNY per person. · Suitable for: honeymooners, those with a generous budget, and nature lovers seeking the ultimate experience. 2. Fiji (best time difference, capital of soft coral) · Visa policy: unconditional visa-free, 30-day stay allowed. · Flights: direct flight from Hong Kong about 10 hours, or transfer via South Korea. · Must-do: experience the “firewalking” ceremony on the main island; snorkel on outer islands like Tokoriki; try the world’s only “Fiji Water” and local cocktails. · Cost: mid to high range. Outer island resorts with meals about 3,000–5,000 CNY/night, hostels on the main island about 200 CNY/bed. · Feature: one of the first countries to see the sunrise globally, with only a +4 hour time difference. · -- Category 2: cultural secrets (rich history) 3. Iran (ancient Persian civilization, safe and welcoming) · Visa policy: unconditional visa-free, 21-day stay allowed (no stamp, no impact on travel to Europe or the US). · Flights: direct flights to Tehran from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, about 8 hours. · Must-do: Pink Mosque in Shiraz (go at 8 AM); Imam Square in Isfahan; see wind towers in Yazd old town. · Cost: very low. Five-star hotels only 400–600 CNY/night, taxi rides cost just a few yuan. · Strict rules: women must wear a headscarf (put on upon entry), alcohol is prohibited, UnionPay/VISA cards not accepted, bring US dollars in cash to exchange for rials locally. · Suitable for: history enthusiasts and backpackers. 4. Armenia (Noah’s Ark legend in the Caucasus) · Visa policy: unconditional visa-free, 90-day stay allowed. · Flights: transfer in Urumqi or Moscow, no direct flights. · Must-do: Echmiadzin Cathedral (World Heritage); Lake Sevan (largest freshwater lake in the Caucasus); view Mount Ararat (the biblical holy mountain). · Cost: low. Cafes everywhere in the capital Yerevan, Western meals about 50 CNY per person. · Note: territorial conflict with neighboring Azerbaijan; if your passport has Azerbaijan entry stamps, you may be questioned upon entry. · -- Category 3: city strolls (easy and convenient) 5. United Arab Emirates (Dubai/Abu Dhabi, luxury and modern) · Visa policy: unconditional visa-free, 30-day stay allowed. · Flights: direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, about 7–8 hours. · Must-do: Burj Khalifa at sunset, skydiving on Palm Jumeirah; Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (wear a robe for photos). · Cost: flexible. Duty-free shopping at malls; buffet meals about 300 CNY, but taxis are expensive. · Avoid: you can’t enter Burj Al Arab without a stay; don’t buy gold at the airport, it’s more expensive than in the city. 6. Serbia (Europe’s first visa-free country, vibrant nightlife) · Visa policy: unconditional visa-free, 30-day stay allowed. · Flights: Hainan Airlines offers direct flights from Beijing to Belgrade, about 11 hours. · Must-do: see the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers in Belgrade, feed swans in Zemun town; attend the EXIT music festival in Novi Sad (July). · Cost: among the cheapest in Europe. Coffee costs 15 CNY, century-old restaurants serve steak with red wine about 200 CNY per person. · Feature: extremely friendly to Chinese travelers, road signs include Chinese. · -- Minimal pre-trip checklist 1. Documents: passport must be valid for more than 6 months, bring 2 spare white-background photos. 2. Flights and accommodation: visa-free countries require printed round-trip flight bookings and full hotel reservations (in English), border control will check. 3. Payment: except for Iran, all support Visa/Mastercard. Carry a small amount of US dollars in cash. 4. Data: buy a local SIM card in advance on Taobao or purchase an overseas data package on Alipay. · -- Final decision guide (match your situation) · Traveling with parents/kids: first choice UAE (well-equipped, moderate flight) or Serbia (affordable, Chinese signage). · Couples/honeymoon: Seychelles if budget allows, Fiji (outer island resorts) if budget is limited. · Solo budget traveler/artsy type: head straight to Iran (best value) or Armenia (niche and safe). · Limited English: go to Dubai or Serbia, where Chinese services are common; for Iran, download translation apps in advance. If any of these countries catch your eye and you want detailed daily itineraries or tips to avoid scams, just let me know and I’ll provide a tailored plan. Have a great trip! 🌍

#worthitornot Maranjab is the accessible soul of the Great Salt Desert. From Tehran I took the bus to Garmsar (IRR 120,000, 1.5 h), then a shared taxi to the desert gate (IRR 300,000 split by 3), and pre-arranged a 4×4 from the ranger post to Maranjab Caravanserai—a 16 km ride across sabkha that would eat a sedan in minutes. The caravanserai is a restored Safavid brick fort (free entry, ranger sleeps there, you can camp in the courtyard for IRR 500,000/group), and 3 km west is the salt lake with “salt castles”: wind- and brine-built turrets of crystalline halite that grow a centimeter a year. Walk them at sunset when the crust glows blue-white. The nearby “Sand Dunes of Maranjab” rise 80 m on the eastern shore—crescent barchans you can climb in 20 minutes. Best Oct–Apr; July salt reflects heat at 55°C surface. Water: carry 4 L/person, Garmsar is the last refill. I wore sandals on the salt and cut a heel on a hidden brine shard—closed shoes. Discussion: does Maranjab’s caravanserai-and-salt-castle combo beat the Lut Kalouts for a first-time Iran desert traveler, or does it feel like a theme park next to Rig-e Yalan?

#worthitornot The Kalouts of Shahdad are what happens when wind owns the landscape for 20,000 years. I drove from Kerman to Shahdad (90 km, paved), then hired a local 4×4 (IRR ~4,000,000/day, cash rial only—cards useless in desert towns) to run the 40 km track to Rig-e Yalan, the deepest dune field in Iran. The Kalout yardangs are ridged clay towers up to 80 m, striped like layer cake; Rig-e Yalan adds star dunes and a salt pan you can drive across at dawn. Best Nov–Feb; Lut holds the planet’s hottest recorded ground temp (70.7°C in 2005), so summer is a hard no. Camp at the Kalout edge (free, no facilities, carry out trash) and shoot the towers at blue hour—zero light pollution, Orion lands on the ridge. Shahdad itself has a date garden and the hot spring Hamam-e Pirzal; eat the local “jazeb” date, not the tourist box. Mistake: I trusted Google Maps on the Rig-e Yalan track—it routed me into a salt crust that nearly swallowed the Land Cruiser; the Shahdad guide’s waypoints are the only map. Permit: no formal permit but the Shahdad eco-guard post logs your plate—register there. Question: are the Kalouts more surreal than the Dasht-e Kavir salt castles, or is Lut simply the harsher half of one Iranian desert story?

#arrivalguide Kandovan (East Azerbaijan) is the troglodyte village 60 km from Tabriz; I took a bus to Osku then a savari taxi to the village (200,000 RIAL, cash rial only—no international cards in Iran). Kandovan's cone houses are the warm-up; the real objective is Sahand (3,707 m), a dormant andesitic volcano 25 km south. From Kandovan a dirt road goes to the Bouzoun Boolaghi summer pasture (4WD, 1h, ~1,500,000 RIAL chartered), then the cone climb is 8 km, 1,400 m gain, 5–7 h. July meadow is full of wild tulip remnants and Kurdish herders; the upper cone is loose scoria—poles help. No permit needed but tell the village headman you're going; GPS track essential, fog rolls in 10 min. Water at pasture only. I slept in Kandovan guesthouse (€10 equiv, cash), started at 4 am, summitted at 10, down by 3. Wind chill on the crater rim in July was real. Mistake: I under-ate—carry dates, bread, cheese, 4 L water. Sahand is Iran's "sleeping giant"; most skip it for Damavand. My question: is Sahand the better first Iranian volcano because it's quieter, or is Damavand unavoidable?

#arrivalguide Kopet Dag west of Ashgabat: I took a marshrutka to Firyuza (40 min, 5 manat, cash only—foreign cards don't work, bring US dollars exchanged in the city). From Firyuza the pistachio (Pistacia vera, wild form) forest trail toward Kara-Kala is 22 km if you go all the way, but I did the first 10 km out-and-back to the Shapalak gap, 5 h, 700 m gain. The lower slope is fig and walnut, mid-slope is the pistachio woodland (autumn nuts, July is green), upper is sage scrub with Iran border fences visible—do not cross the border line, Turkmen border guards are unamused. Kara-Kala itself is a further shared taxi from the Firyuza roadhead, 2 h, not walkable same-day unless you camp. Carry all water (3 L); springs exist but livestock-contaminated. Permit: Kopet Dag is a controlled recreation zone, not closed, but carry passport always—checkpoints at Firyuza ask. Homestays in Firyuza take manat cash only. Mistake: I wore trail runners in 38°C and the limestone scree ate my ankles; gaiters + mid boots next time. The pistachio scent after rain is the memory. Discussion: is Kopet Dag worth the Ashgabat bureaucracy versus just doing Yangykala Canyon instead?

📍Van Castle | The time monument of eastern Turkey Basalt cliffs at 1,750 m elevation🏔️ A fortress witnessing the rise and fall of nine great empires Controlling Iran to the east🔥pressing Armenia to the west A millennium-old strategic battleground! 🌟Must-see highlights: 1️⃣ Cuneiform inscription of Persian Xerxes I The most complete Achaemenid Empire stone carving in Asia!👑 2️⃣ Weathered bullet holes coexist with exquisite Quranic carvings Ulu Mosque tells stories of war and faith🕌 ✨Past and present: ✅ Ancient capital of the Urartu Kingdom ✅ Ruled by the first Persian Empire ✅ Spanning Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman eras... ✅ Survived the artillery fire of World War I! 📸 Photographer’s secret spots: 1️⃣ Stone tablet at the west entrance of the castle 2️⃣ Cliff platform overlooking Lake Van 3️⃣ Light and shadow corridor of the mosque Here, every stone tells a story Stroll through 3,000 years of history Experience the symphony of civilization and war...

#arrivalguide The Hyrcanian belt is 40 million years old and UNESCO-listed; Golestan NP's Almeh gate to Tangeh Savashi is the walk that shows why. I came from Gorgan by bus to Minudasht (120,000 rial, 2h), then a savari taxi to Almeh entrance (200,000 rial/share, cash tomans only—no cards, bring enough IRR). Park entry 50,000 rial. From Almeh (700 m) the old forest road runs 8 km to Tangeh Savashi canyon, 3.5h one way, gentle 300 m gain through hornbeam, ironwood, and liana jungle that smells of wet earth even in July. Tangeh Savashi is a narrow limestone slot where the Savashi river disappears underground—you wade ankle-deep, no swimming (protected spawn). Along the way: a 19th-century Qajar hunting lodge (locked, ask the ranger), and a spring at Cheshmeh Morad where locals fill bottles. Carry 2 L—the spring is unreliable in drought years. Women: hejab enforced at the gate, relaxed on the trail but keep a scarf handy for ranger posts. Rules: no camping outside designated clearings, no open fire in July (fire risk), no drone without ministry permit. Mistake: I wore shorts—leeches in the leaf litter got me; long trousers + socks tucked. The canyon at 3 pm echoes with birdsong you don't hear in Europe. Question: does the Hyrcanian forest beat the Zagros or Alborz for a first-time Iran hiker, or is it too humid and buggy for summer?

#itinerarycheck The Alamut Valley, east of Qazvin, is where Hassan-i Sabbah ran the Order of Assassins in the 11th century. The castle ruins perch on a 2,000 m cliff above the Alamut River, near the village of Gazor Khan. Getting there is a lesson in Iranian rural logistics. Transport: From Tehran, bus to Qazvin (IRR 500,000, 2.5h, card OK at the terminal). Then a savari (shared taxi) to Mo’allem Kalayeh (IRR 1.2M, 1.5h). Last leg: a 4WD pickup from Mo’allem to Gazor Khan (IRR 800,000 per vehicle, fits 6, cash rials only). No buses beyond Mo’allem. The hike: Start at Gazor Khan mosque courtyard, 08:00. A mule track climbs 400 m over 2.3 km to the castle saddle. The path is stone-pitched in places, washed out in others. At the saddle, the castle spreads over 200 m of ridge — walls, cisterns, a 40 m drop to the river. Entry IRR 300,000 (foreigner rate), guide mandatory (IRR 1M for 1.5h, negotiated at the village teahouse). Rules: Women must wear scarf at the village and on trail (I kept a light scarf, fine). No alcohol obviously. Photography of the nearby military post (west ridge) forbidden — ranger will shout. Gear: The cliff edge has no rails. I wore Vibram soles; still slipped on the dusty limestone. Bring 2 L water; the spring at Gazor Khan is unreliable. Costs: Bus IRR 500k + savari 1.2M + 4WD 800k/6 + entry 300k + guide 1M/3 = ≈ IRR 2.3M ≈ USD 55 with food. Observation: The castle is 80% rubble, 20% imagination — but standing where Sabbah allegedly said “Nothing is true, everything is permitted” (probably misquoted) while eagles circle the gorge is a better history lesson than any museum. Question: When a site’s fame rests on a legend (Assassins = hashish-users, likely false), does the ruin owe you accuracy or atmosphere? I’ll take atmosphere with a footnote. Would you?

#itinerarycheck Tehran hides a 3,964 m peak an hour from Imam Khomeini terminal. The Tochal Telecabin (world’s fourth longest) lifts you to Station 7 (3,100 m); from there, the walk to Tochal summit is 2.5 hrs along a service road turning into a scree ridge. Buy tickets at Tochal Complex, Velenjak (cash rial only; 500,000 rial one-way mid-2024). Women must wear hijab on the cable car and in the base area—scarf and manteau; on the summit ridge enforcement relaxes but keep a scarf handy. Friday is packed; Wednesday dawn is empty. From Station 7, the road climbs past ski huts (Shirpala 3,200 m) to Tochal shelter, then a painted ridge line to the antenna dome. No technical climb, but altitude bite is sharp—Tehranis underestimate it. I saw a guy in dress shoes turn cyan by Shirpala. Carry 2 L water, wind layer, and Iranian SIM offline map (Hamrahe Avalworks; Google Maps stalls). Rule: don’t photograph military installations near the ridge—two signs warn in Farsi/English. Itinerary check note: Do this as a half-day before midday haze. Descend by cable car (last car 5 pm). Pair with Darband stream walk lower down for tea. Is a city that delivers a subarctic ridge in 90 minutes cable-ride worth the hassle of Tehran traffic?

Looking for a different kind of exhibition this summer? We recommend this hidden gem full of exotic charm. The exhibition opens on 7/26. Let’s turn our attention to our "western neighbors" and immerse ourselves in the unique allure of Silk Road culture~ 🌟 Highlights: ✅ Art from 12 countries: Featuring over 50 masterpieces from more than a dozen Central and West Asian countries including Uzbekistan, Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan. ✅ Diverse exhibits: Includes paintings, calligraphy, photography, sculpture, handicrafts, and jewelry. 🌟 Selected works: ✅ Iranian miniature painting "Phoenix" ✅ Syrian "Damascus dagger" ✅ Pakistani Urdu calligraphy "Shanghai" ✅ Turkmenistan "Oriental lullaby" ✅ Pakistani multimedia painting "Silence" 💞 Friendly reminder: The exhibition runs for a short time. Plan your visit accordingly. The exhibition is small but worth visiting if you’re interested in Central and West Asian culture. Guided tours are available on weekends with prior official reservation. ⏰ Guided tour times: Saturdays and Sundays during the exhibition, 2:00 PM–3:00 PM. 🌸 Follow me for more exhibition updates and let’s visit together. —— Exhibition info —— 🖼️ Exhibition: Western Neighbors Art Shadow – Central and West Asia Art Joint Exhibition Pudong Tour ⏰ Dates: Jul 26, 2026 – Aug 16, 2026 🏛️ Location: Pudong New Area Cultural and Art Guidance Center · GM Art Museum (2769 Jinxiu Road) 🎫 Admission: Free

#kindnessontheroad The Caspian Sea, despite its name, is the world's largest inland body of water, and its coastal wetlands in Iran (near Ramsar) and Azerbaijan are critical stopover points for migratory birds on the African-Eurasian flyway. While hiking through the Gizil-Agach State Reserve in Azerbaijan, I stumbled upon a heartbreaking scene. A local conservation officer, a young woman named Leyla, was carefully washing a grebe she had found struggling in the reeds. The bird was coated in a thick, black, viscous substance—crude oil. Leyla explained that despite efforts to prevent spills, illegal dumping and natural seeps still plague the Caspian. She was using a gentle, biodegradable detergent and lukewarm water to clean the bird’s feathers, a painstaking process that took hours. She told me that if the oil isn't removed, the bird loses its waterproofing and buoyancy, leading to hypothermia and death. Worse, when they preen, they ingest the toxins. I knelt beside her, offering to hold the bird's towel-wrapped body steady while she worked on its wings. The bird was exhausted but surprisingly docile. During the two hours we worked, she shared the grim reality of conservation in the region: lack of funding, the sheer scale of the problem, and the political complexities of a sea shared by five countries. Yet, her dedication was unwavering. She spoke of "citizen science" projects where locals report oil sightings via a mobile app. If you visit the Caspian wetlands, please stick to designated boardwalks to avoid disturbing nesting sites. Better yet, consider donating to or volunteering with local environmental NGOs. Seeing that grebe eventually flap its cleaned wings and dive back into the murky water was a poignant reminder that our travel footprint extends beyond carbon emissions—it includes the health of the ecosystems we visit. What small actions do you take to support conservation while traveling?

#kindnessontheroad While driving the winding roads of the Zagros Mountains between Yasuj and Semirom, I spotted a cluster of black goat-hair tents nestled in a high valley. Intrigued by the traditional Qashqai nomadic lifestyle, I parked safely and approached slowly. A woman in vibrant layered skirts welcomed me with a nod, and soon I was seated on a woven rug inside their tent. The patriarch of the family, wearing a wide-sleeved white shirt, was tending to a pot over an open fire. For lunch, they served me chellorice infused with threads of local saffron, topped with chunks of tender lamb and walnuts. They ate separately, but kept refilling my bowl until I could barely move. We communicated through smiles and Google Translate, looking at photos of their flocks and the seasonal migrations they undertake. They declined any money for the meal, but accepted a few pens and notebooks for their children. If you visit nomadic areas in Iran, always ask permission before taking photos, and bringing small gifts for kids (like school supplies) is appreciated more than money. Note that hitchhiking or wandering freely in remote border regions like this requires caution and local advice due to military presence. Have you ever experienced such genuine hospitality that transcended language barriers?

#underratedspots When I was planning my trip to Shiraz, every itinerary looked almost identical: Persepolis, Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Eram Garden. Maharloo Lake was rarely mentioned, so I assumed it wasn't worth the detour. I couldn't have been more wrong. What I liked most wasn't even the famous pink color. It was the feeling of having such an incredible landscape almost to myself. There were no crowds rushing from one viewpoint to another, no lines, and no pressure to move on after taking a photo. I simply wandered along the salt-covered shore, watching the colors change as the sunlight shifted. The funny part is that Maharloo wasn't even the main reason I left Shiraz that morning. I expected it to be a quick stop before continuing my trip. Instead, it became the place I talked about the most afterward. Sometimes, the destinations that receive the least attention end up creating the strongest memories. Maharloo Lake reminded me that not every highlight appears on the first page of a travel guide. Have you ever visited a place that almost nobody recommended, but it ended up becoming one of your favorite stops? #UnderratedSpots #MaharlooLake #Iran #Shiraz #Travel #Nature #HiddenGem #TravelPhotography

Stepping into the Persian civilization hall at the Lushun Museum, several Minai enamel-glazed pottery pieces immediately caught my eye. These ancient ceramics, fired in the 12th to 13th centuries and originating from Kashan, Persia, represent the pinnacle of Seljuk dynasty pottery craftsmanship. Weathered by time, they are covered with natural crackle patterns, and their rustic texture deeply moves the soul. The first piece, a story-inscribed glazed pottery plate, depicts a scene from the epic "Nezami" featuring a king and his lover. The text along the rim is filled with tender confessions, preserving ancient longing on the ceramic surface. The geometric-patterned pottery bowl with figures is intricately designed, with orderly geometric patterns interspersed with four pairs of lovers, perfectly blending calligraphy, painting, and motifs. The horseback inscribed pottery bowl carries a more lively atmosphere, with a central rider image surrounded by a camel caravan, recreating the merchant scenes along the ancient Persian Silk Road. The Kufic script inscription on the rim repeatedly prays for the glory of the homeland. The complex Minai technique, involving multiple kiln firings, showcases the artisans’ exquisite craftsmanship. An ancient poem says, “Artifacts preserve stories through the ages, patterns subtly carry old emotions.” Each pottery piece is not just a daily object but a tangible carrier of Persian literature, commerce, and aesthetics. A Persian proverb states, “Time may wear down the surface of objects, but it cannot erase the brilliance of civilization.” Previously, I only knew Persian gold and silverware were luxurious and dazzling. After seeing this collection of glazed pottery, I realized Persian romance is hidden everywhere. Neither war nor time could destroy these exquisite relics, which have traveled thousands of miles to meet us here in Lushun. Standing quietly to admire them feels like following the ancient Silk Road, glimpsing the everyday life and poetry of West Asia a thousand years ago. This kind of cultural exhibition is truly eye-opening, and I highly recommend everyone to visit. Attached are three specially recommended artifacts (with text added to the images), all Minai glazed pottery from 12th–13th century Kashan, Persia. These are the peak works of Seljuk dynasty Persian pottery craftsmanship, now displayed in the Persian civilization exhibition at Lushun Museum. The original artifacts are respectively housed in the Reza Abbasi Museum and the Glass and Ceramics Museum in Iran. 1. Enamel-painted story-inscribed glazed pottery plate (13th century) The plate depicts the story of the Sasanian king and his lover from the epic "Nezami." The rim is surrounded by Persian Tariq script poetry, with deeply affectionate messages. The piece is covered with age crackle patterns, and the painting conveys a strong narrative sense. 2. Geometric-patterned enamel-glazed pottery bowl with figures (12th–13th century) The bowl’s center features orderly symmetrical geometric patterns, surrounded by four pairs of lovers, combined with floral leaves and ancient Arabic calligraphy, blending three classic Persian arts: geometric aesthetics, figure painting, and calligraphy. 3. Horseback figure pottery bowl with Kufic script inscription (12th–13th century) The bowl’s center depicts a mounted noble, with a camel caravan painted on the inner wall, recreating the commercial scenes of the ancient Persian Silk Road. The rim is encircled by Kufic Arabic script repeatedly inscribed with prayers for “glory and national prosperity.” The outer wall has large blank areas, with a rhythmic balance of dense and sparse painting. Craftsmanship insight Minai ware is a multi-layered enamel overglaze technique requiring multiple kiln firings to achieve its rich colors. It flourished for just over a century (eventually surpassed by Chinese porcelain, as pottery and porcelain have significant differences). It is a highly representative artifact of medieval Persian art, carrying Persian literature and Silk Road life, while also reflecting the fusion of Islamic calligraphy and painting arts.

(Note: Towers are sightseeing/communication structures, not equivalent to habitable buildings) 1 Tokyo Skytree Location: Tokyo, Japan Height: 634 meters Year built: 2012 Architect: Nikken Sekkei 2 Canton Tower Location: Guangzhou, China Height: 600 meters (tower top) Year built: 2010 Architect: Mark Hemel, Barbara Kuit (Information Based Architecture, IBA) + ARUP 3 CN Tower Location: Toronto, Canada Height: 553.3 meters Year built: 1976 Architect: WZMH Architects 4 Ostankino Tower Location: Moscow, Russia Height: 540.1 meters Year built: 1967 Architect: Nikolai Nikitin 5 Oriental Pearl Tower Location: Shanghai, China Height: 468 meters Year built: 1994 Architect: Jiang Huancheng (Shanghai Modern Architectural Design) 6 Milad Tower Location: Tehran, Iran Height: 435 meters Year built: 2008 Architect: Mohammad Reza Hafezi 7 Menara Kuala Lumpur Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Height: 421 meters Year built: 1996 Architect: Kumpulan Senireka 8 Tianjin Radio and Television Tower Location: Tianjin, China Height: 415.2 meters Year built: 1991 Architect: Tianjin Architectural Design Institute 9 Central Radio & TV Tower Location: Beijing, China Height: 405 meters Year built: 1992 Architect: Design Institute of the National Radio and Television Administration 10 Zhongyuan Tower Location: Zhengzhou, China Height: 388 meters Year built: 2009 Architect: Architectural Design and Research Institute of South China University of Technology

I’ve always wanted to explore eastern Iran—Greater Khorasan, a region rich in culture, civilization, Persian language, and Iranian music. When I learned Travel Around Iran had organized a tour to visit the major cities of Khorasan, I decided to join. I’m so glad I did! The cities were breathtaking, and the people were incredibly kind and hospitable. I fell in love with the stunning landscapes, captivating architecture, and fascinating history of this region. We visited cities like Torbate Jam, Taybad, Khaf, Nashtifan, Gonabad, and Ferdows. The experiences included watching Khorasani dance, enjoying its music, exploring handicraft workshops, sampling delicious local food, and spending meaningful time with the warm-hearted locals. We also learned about the Iranian qanat system—an engineering marvel—and the asbads (wind-powered mills), a remarkable example of sustainable energy use. Words can barely express how much I enjoyed this trip; it was truly one of the best journeys of my life. I’m already looking forward to returning to this incredible region. Thank you, Banafsheh and Travel Around Iran, for organizing such an amazing experience.

See the Persian artifacts exhibition at the Lüshun Museum. The highlight is the exquisite ceramics. Persian ceramics may not be as delicate as Chinese ones, but they have a unique exotic charm and are not to be missed. In the 16th–17th centuries, Iranian artisans imitated Chinese porcelain, especially monochrome, blue-and-white, and celadon wares. After the 18th century, Iran’s pottery industry declined in both quality and output, with the market flooded by ceramics imported from Europe, China, and Japan. However, from an artistic perspective, the ceramics in this exhibition are outstanding. These pieces left the deepest impression on me: Figures 15–18: slender-necked pottery vase with iridescent overglaze decoration and human figures Pottery. 12th–13th century AD Every detail of this vase is fascinating, especially the delicate depiction of the figures. Judging by its shape, this vessel was mainly used to pour liquid into bowls or cups and is generally classified as a vase. Its decoration combines human images with geometric patterns: the lower half features scenes of figures enclosed in multiple polygonal frames, mainly in monochrome iridescent glaze, with small touches of lapis lazuli blue in some frames. The neck is decorated with geometric patterns, and the upper rim has a band of human heads. Based on its style, this piece was very likely made in Kashan, known for its fine pottery production. Figure 3: porcelain vase imported from France Porcelain. Qajar dynasty (18th–19th century AD) Porcelain vase imported from France with Reza Abbasi Museum Portrait of a Qajar king This small French white porcelain vase has a luxurious and precious base. The body features dragon-shaped double handles, one of which is damaged. The outer wall and parts of the interior rim are decorated with intricate patterns. The belly shows a half-length portrait of Qajar king Fath-Ali Shah in an oval frame, surrounded by gold geometric patterns. A raised pearl pattern encircles part of the vase, adding to its splendor. According to the museum catalog, this piece was originally imported from France and used as a custom luxury item by Qajar nobility or the upper class. Figure 4: this water pipe vase is from the Safavid period, combining underglaze blue and overglaze iridescent decoration, most likely produced in Kerman city. The outer wall is adorned with complex floral, shrub, scroll patterns, and seated human figures. The main decoration is underglaze blue, imitating Chinese blue-and-white porcelain; parts are overglaze iridescent, an innovation by Iranian potters. The water pipe was a tool for smoking tobacco used by Iranians. Its exact origin is unclear, but there is abundant historical and physical evidence from the Safavid period, including this piece. Figure 5: Sultanabad style Flying bird motif iridescent glazed pottery bowl Pottery. Ilkhanate (13th–14th century AD) The interior depicts flying birds resembling geese, surrounded by repeated floral and plant patterns. The main colors are gray, black, and cobalt blue on a white background. The birds’ bodies are decorated with blue dot patterns, giving a light and graceful feel. This type of animal motif is typical of Sultanabad ware from the Ilkhanate period. The current exhibition "Encounter a millennium of Persia" at the Lüshun Museum is a rare opportunity you should definitely visit!