Birjand Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Birjand with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring recommendations on top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, food and drink scene and much more.


Introduction to Birjand

Birjand, the capital of South Khorasan Province in Iran, is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It was an important stop on the Silk Road and still boasts a treasure trove of architectural and cultural marvels.

Visitors to Birjand will appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of its locals. It is a city known for its hospitality, great food, and scenic views, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience something new while enjoying a rich cultural experience.

With its vibrant bazaars, majestic mountains, and bustling streets, Birjand offers something for everyone, from history buffs and shopping enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers and culture vultures. Here is our comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to Birjand.

List of Places to Visit in Birjand

Birjand has a wealth of tourist attractions to explore, ranging from ancient monuments to natural wonders. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Birjand Castle
  • Taftan Caravanserai
  • Shokatiyeh Mansion
  • Jameh Mosque
  • Sharafkhaneh Garden

Natural Attractions of Birjand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Akbariyeh Garden
  • Goutbar Waterfall
  • Jahan Nama Garden
  • Buzhan Mountain
  • Darmangan Castle

Hiking/Biking Routes of Birjand

Birjand offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature, whether by hiking or biking. Here are some of the best routes around Birjand:

  • Birjand to Darwazeh Joghan Trail
  • Birjand to Nachijan Trail
  • Birjand to Band-e-Narges Trail
  • Ghaleh Gohar Dam Trail
  • Qaleh Genni Trail

Best Things to Do in Birjand: Activities and Tours

  • Shop at Birjand Bazaar
  • Visit Museum of Hezarjarib
  • Explore Darvish House
  • Attend Jashn-e Taftan Festival
  • Take a Day trip to Nehbandan City

Week-Long Itinerary for Birjand

Here is a week-long itinerary to help you make the most out of your trip to Birjand:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Birjand and explore the city center, visit Jameh mosque, and shop at local bazaars.
2 Take a day trip to Nehbandan city, visit the historic Ganjali Khan Complex and dine at local restaurants.
3 Visit museums and art galleries in Birjand, including Hezarjarib Museum and Darvish House.
4 Go hiking or mountain biking in Buzhan Mountain.
5 Attend Jashn-e Taftan festival and experience local culture and customs.
6 Explore the natural wonders of Birjand, including Akbariyeh Garden and Goutbar Waterfall.
7 Shop for local souvenirs, enjoy Birjand’s food and beverage scene and depart for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Birjand

Birjand’s food and drink scene is a vibrant mix of traditional Persian cuisine with local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khoresh Gheymeh: A traditional Persian stew made with beef, split peas, and dried limes.
  • Ash Reshteh: A hearty soup made with noodles, beans, and herbs.
  • Koofteh Berenji: Meatballs made with rice flour and herbs.
  • Shami Kebab: Flattened minced meat patties seasoned with spices and herbs.
  • Ghormeh Sabzi: A herb and vegetable stew, often served with rice.

Local Beverages

  • Doogh: A refreshing yogurt-based drink flavored with mint and cucumber.
  • Traditional Persian Tea: A strong, black tea infused with cardamom and served with or without sugar.
  • Sharbat: A sweet and fruity syrup or cordial often diluted with water or soda.

Where to Stay in Birjand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Birjand offers several accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, with options to suit all kinds of travelers.

  • Birjand Tourist Hotel
  • Siyah Mashgh Hotel
  • Khorshid Hotel
  • Darvishi Hotel
  • Ehsan Traditional Guesthouse

What to Buy in Birjand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take home a piece of Birjand’s culture, there are plenty of options. The city is renowned for its excellent handicrafts, including:

  • Carpet, rugs, and Kilims
  • Khatam handicrafts
  • Copper and brass objects
  • Beautifully painted potteries
  • Traditional wooden games

Local Culture and Customs of Birjand

Birjand’s locals are hospitable and welcoming to guests. However, certain customs and practices should be observed to ensure mutual respect and avoid misunderstandings. For instance:

  • Dress modestly and limit public display of affection.
  • Avoid visiting religious sites and mosques during prayer times.
  • When eating or passing objects, use your right hand only, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Do not take photos or videos of strangers without their permission.

Best Time to Visit Birjand

The best time to visit Birjand is in spring from March to May when the weather is mild and comfortable, and the nature is blooming with vibrant colors. In autumn, the city becomes even more beautiful as the trees and forests change colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Birjand

Do:

  • Try the local specialties and immerse yourself in the food scene.
  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
  • Bargain with vendors in the bazaar but do so politely.
  • Take your time and explore the city’s hidden gems.

Don’t:

  • Use or carry drugs or alcohol, as they are prohibited in Iran.
  • Dress in revealing or provocative clothing.
  • Engage in public displays of affection.
  • Disrespect the local culture or religious beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Birjand

Birjand is a safe city to visit. However, it’s always advisable to take necessary precautions such as:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Be wary of pickpockets and keep your valuables safe.
  • Respect the local laws and customs.

Health in Birjand

As with any international travel, it’s important to have travel insurance and take necessary precautions. Make sure to:

  • Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.
  • Avoid street food and drink only from reputable restaurants.
  • Wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water, especially during summer months.

Getting to Birjand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Birjand is well-connected to the rest of Iran via airlines, buses, and taxis.

Airports Near Birjand

  • Birjand International Airport
  • Mashhad International Airport
  • Zahedan International Airport

Bus Stations Near Birjand

  • Birjand Bus Terminal
  • Tehran’s South Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxis and shared taxis are available for both short and long-distance travel.

How to Get Around in Birjand

Birjand is a relatively small city, and visitors can either walk or use taxis to get around. Taxis are available throughout the city and are the most common means of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Birjand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Birjand is a fantastic base for exploring nearby destinations like:

  • Mashhad: The holy city of Iran and home to the shrine of Imam Reza.
  • Kerman: A desert city with historic architecture and scenic views
  • Zahedan: The capital of Sistan and Balochistan Province, a city with an intriguing culture and architecture.

Conclusion

Birjand is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find plenty to do in this charming city. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to make the most out of your trip to Birjand.

قلعه تاریخی بیرجند قلعه تاریخی بیرجند