Kandovan Travel Guide
Discover the mystique and natural beauty of Kandovan, Iran with our comprehensive travel guide. Find the best places to visit, things to do, places to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Kandovan
- List of Places to Visit in Kandovan
- Best Things to Do in Kandovan: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Kandovan
- Food and Drink Scene of Kandovan
- Where to Stay in Kandovan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Kandovan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Kandovan
- Best Time to Visit Kandovan
- Do’s and Don’ts of Kandovan
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Kandovan: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Kandovan
- Where to Go Next from Kandovan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Kandovan
Nestled in Iranian Azerbaijan, Kandovan is one of Iran’s most exceptional destinations. Known for its timeless architecture, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, Kandovan is often referred to as the “city of stone.” The town’s unique rock-cut houses and beautiful views have inspired travelers for centuries. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your visit to this hidden gem.
List of Places to Visit in Kandovan
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Kandovan Ethnographic Museum: Learn about the region’s history, architecture, and unique culture.
- Kandovan Mosque: Visit this beautiful mosque, which showcases the traditional Iranian architectural style.
Natural Attractions of Kandovan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Ghara Kelisa Cave: Discover one of Kandovan’s most beautiful natural wonders with a visit to the Ghara Kelisa Cave.
- Sahand Mountain: Hike to the top of this mountain and enjoy the spectacular views of Kandovan valley.
- Kandovan Waterfall: Take a peaceful walk within the valley of Kandovan and experience the beautiful Kandovan waterfall.
Best Things to Do in Kandovan: Activities and Tours
- Horseback Riding: Take a ride through the mountains and valleys of Kandovan on horseback.
- Rock-Cut House Tours: Take a guided tour of the rock-cut houses and learn about the region’s rich culture and history.
- Traditional Cooking Classes: Learn how to cook traditional Iranian dishes from the locals.
Week-Long Itinerary for Kandovan
Below is a sample itinerary that you can use as a guide for your week-long visit to Kandovan. However, this guide is just for reference, and visitors can make changes according to their preferences and time frame.
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kandovan, check-in at hotel or guesthouse, explore the town, visit the Ethnographic Museum |
| Day 2 | Take a guided Rock-Cut house tour and visit the Kandovan Mosque |
| Day 3 | Hike to the top of the Sahand Mountain, picnic lunch |
| Day 4 | Excursion to Tabriz, visit the House of Constitution and Blue Mosque |
| Day 5 | Relax and enjoy the beauty of Kandovan, traditional cooking class |
| Day 6 | Visit the Ghara Kelisa Cave, horseback riding tour |
| Day 7 | Departure from Kandovan |
Food and Drink Scene of Kandovan
Must-Try Dishes
- Ash Reshteh: A delicious soup made with beans, noodles, herbs, and spices.
- Kebabs: A variety of grilled meat dishes, a must-try in Kandovan.
Local Beverages
- Doogh: A traditional Iranian yogurt drink with mint and salt.
- Persian Tea: A delicious and strong tea served in small glass cups.
Where to Stay in Kandovan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are many accommodation options in Kandovan, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include the Laleh Kandovan Rocky Hotel or Kandovan Intl Rocky Hotel.
What to Buy in Kandovan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Pottery: Handmade And handmade pottery made by the locals, a unique souvenir.
- Persian Carpets: The Persian carpets crafted in the region have delicate designs and make for a memorable souvenir.
Local Culture and Customs of Kandovan
- Clothing: Women should dress modestly and avoid short skirts or revealing clothing. Men should dress more conservatively.
Best Time to Visit Kandovan
The best time to visit Kandovan is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild.
Do’s and Don’ts of Kandovan
Do:
- Respect the locals and their culture.
- Carry local currency.
Don’t:
- Do not take pictures of locals without permission.
- Do not engage in public displays of affection.
Safety and Health
Safety in Kandovan
Kandovan is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but it’s always essential to take precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not walking alone at night.
Health in Kandovan
The tap water is not safe to drink, so it’s better to stick to bottled water. Visitors should also bring a basic medical kit with them.
Getting to Kandovan: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Kandovan
The nearest airport to Kandovan is the Tabriz International Airport.
Bus Stations Near Kandovan
Visitors can take a bus from Tabriz or Tehran to Kandovan.
Other Options
Visitors can rent a car and drive to Kandovan from Tabriz, which is approximately an hour away.
How to Get Around in Kandovan
The small town of Kandovan is easy to explore on foot. Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to explore the surrounding areas.
Where to Go Next from Kandovan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Tabriz: Visit this fascinating city with its ancient bazaars, historic mosques, and beautiful gardens.
- Ardabil: Explore this beautiful city with its stunning architecture, including the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble.
- Urmia: Discover this city with its rich history and beautiful landmarks.
Conclusion
Kandovan is a stunning destination with plenty to offer travelers. Whether you want to explore the town’s unique architecture, enjoy the natural beauty, or experience the local culture and customs, Kandovan has it all. This travel guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this unforgettable destination.
