Nishapur Travel Guide

Discover Nishapur, Iran – a beautiful Middle Eastern city full of culture, history and adventure with our comprehensive travel guide. We've got you covered from places to visit, hiking routes, and food and drink scene to safety and health.


Introduction to Nishapur

Nishapur is a city in Khorasan province, Iran. It’s a beautiful city full of culture, history, and adventure. It is widely known for its glorious past, and as the birthplace of great poets such as Attar and Omar Khayyam. Nishapur has a lot to offer to tourists from all over the world, making it an ideal destination for anyone interested in exploring the Middle East.

List of Places to Visit in Nishapur

When it comes to places to visit in Nishapur, there’s so much to discover. Here are the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nishapur has a rich history, which can be explored through its culturally important attractions:

  • Mausoleum of Omar Khayyam: A beautiful mausoleum complex honoring one of the greatest Persian poets, Omar Khayyam, who was born in Nishapur.
  • Mausoleum of Attar: The burial place of another great Persian poet, Sana’i, and home to a museum showcasing ancient manuscripts and calligraphy.
  • Nishapur Jame Mosque: The oldest Friday mosque in Iran, built in the 9th century AD.
  • Rab’-e-Rashidi: A complex of educational buildings built in the 14th century, and home to some of the world’s oldest educational institutions.
  • The Museum of Nishapur: A museum that displays a vast number of objects from the pre-Islamic era to the Islamic era.

Natural Attractions of Nishapur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, there are plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views to indulge in Nishapur:

  • Mount Aladaq: A popular hiking spot with stunning views of Nishapur from the top.
  • Naghsh-e-Rostam Park: A beautiful park with scenic paths, a tranquil lake, and lovely picnic areas.
  • Mineral hot springs of Garmab: A popular spot for relaxing in the natural hot springs surrounded by stunning views.
  • Tomb of Kamal al-Molk: A magnificent monument that is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts, located on the top of the mountain offering breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nishapur

Nishapur is an excellent place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Mount Aladaq: A 4-5 hour trek offers an opportunity for hikers to witness panoramic views of the city from the top.
  • Tang-e-Golestan: A scenic trail that invites hikers to walk for hours while admiring the natural beauty of the Tang-e-Golestan gorge.
  • Darb-e-Tabatabaei: Its a mountain biking trail that follows the historical path of Tabatabaei, who was one of the ministers of Nader Shah.

Best Things to Do in Nishapur: Activities and Tours

Beyond just the sites and natural beauty, Nishapur offers plenty of activities and tours that are must-do’s for your itinerary:

  • Attend an Iranian ceremony: In Nishapur, various Iranian traditional ceremonies are celebrated throughout the year. These events are the best way to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions.
  • Visit Traditional Bazaar of Nishapur: The bazaar provides an opportunity to shop for Iranian souvenirs such as handwoven carpets, saffron, and traditional spices.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Enjoy breathtaking views of Nishapur’s stunning landscapes from a hot air balloon ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nishapur

Here is our suggested week-long itinerary for Nishapur:

  • Day 1 - Visit Mausoleum of Omar Khayyam and Museum of Nishapur.
  • Day 2 - Explore Nishapur Jame Mosque and Rab’-e-Rashidi.
  • Day 3 - Hiking and Trekking at Mount Aladaq.
  • Day 4 - Relax at the hot mineral springs of Garmab.
  • Day 5 - Visit tangent Golestan and Tomb of Kamal al-Molk.
  • Day 6 - Attend an Iranian ceremony.
  • Day 7 - Visit the traditional bazaar.

Food and Drink Scene of Nishapur

The food and drink scene in Nishapur is exciting and flavorsome, highlighting the traditional Persian cuisine. Don’t miss trying out these distinctive dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ghormeh Sabzi: A traditional Persian stew made from sautéed herbs, vegetables, and meat.
  • Kebab: A popular Iranian dish made by grilling sizable cuts of meat.
  • Baghale Ghatogh: A traditional Persian dish made with broad beans, eggs, and dill, a perfect breakfast dish.

Local Beverages

  • Chai: A hot Iranian tea flavored with cardamom and saffron.
  • Doogh: A salty yogurt drink flavored with mint and served with ice.

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

Nishapur has various accommodation options suitable for diverse budgets, preferences, and travel styles.

  • Ketab Safari Hostel: An affordable hostel, perfect for backpackers with comfortable and clean rooms.
  • Nayab Guesthouse: An excellent choice for travelers seeking traditional Iranian hospitality at affordable prices.
  • Pardisan Hotel Nishapur: A luxury hotel with modern facilities such as swimming pool, spa and restaurant with scenic views of Nishapur.

What to Buy in Nishapur: Souvenirs, and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Nishapur can find a range of souvenirs, arts, and crafts to purchase, reflecting the culture and history of the city.

  • Handwoven carpets: Traditional carpets woven by locals with natural colors and high quality.
  • Saffron: Nishapur is one of the biggest producers of saffron in Iran, making it the perfect place to buy the best quality saffron.
  • Local Spices: Nishapur is known for its unique blend of spices, which can be purchased at affordable prices from its traditional bazaars.

Local Culture and Customs of Nishapur

It is important to respect the local customs and traditions while visiting Nishapur. Islamic culture predominates in Iran, and visitors should dress modestly, particularly when visiting mosques or religious sites. Also, a traveler should beware of local customs and rules regarding behavior.

Best Time to Visit Nishapur

The weather in Nishapur is pleasant year-round, making it accessible for tourists to visit the city any time. However, the ideal time to visit Nishapur is during Spring (March-April), Autumn (September-November), and winter (December-January) when the weather is mild and temperature range from 0°C-20°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nishapur

Do:

  • Dress modestly while visiting mosques or religious sites.
  • Explore the local culture and traditions of Iran.
  • Tasting the traditional Persian cuisine.
  • Use public transportation.

Don’t:

  • Do not consume alcoholic beverages while in public places.
  • Avoid taking photos in certain areas like military regions.
  • Do not disrespect religious or cultural beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nishapur

Nishapur is a relatively safe travel destination; however, visitors are urged to exercise normal safety precautions such as keeping a watchful eye on personal luggage and valuables. Do not leave your belongings at an unattended location.

Health in Nishapur

Visitors traveling to Nishapur should make sure that they get all the necessary vaccinations and take the necessary precautions to avoid getting sick. It is advisable to carry medication for common ailments, including diarrhea and flu.

Getting to Nishapur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nishapur

The nearest airport to Nishapur is Mashhad international airport, which is approximately 60 km from the city. Visitors can take a taxi or bus to Nishapur from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Nishapur

Nishapur is accessible by Bus from other Iranian cities like Mashhad and Tehran. Buses run daily, and the fares are affordable.

Other Options

People who love a road trip can rent a car or a motorcycle to travel across Iran.

How to Get Around in Nishapur

Visitors can get around in Nishapur in several ways, including:

  • Taxi: You can take taxis to move around the city. It’s affordable and reliable.
  • Public Transportation: Visitors can use public transportation such as buses.
  • Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is also an excellent option for tourists who want to explore the city at their leisure.

Where to Go Next from Nishapur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nishapur is located in a central position; visitors can travel by bus or car to other nearby Iranian cities, including Mashhad and Tehran.

Conclusion

Nishapur is a must-visit tourist destination in Iran, offering an excellent experience for tourists interested in nature, culture, and history. From stunning natural landscapes to culturally significant monuments, Nishapur is an excellent destination for an unforgettable travel experience.