Western Iran Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Western Iran with this travel guide featuring must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Western Iran

Western Iran is a magnificent and diverse region located in the Middle East, Asia. It is known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique local culture. The region is comprised of provinces like Kermanshah, Kurdistan, Ilam, Hamadan, and Lorestan, each with their own unique attractions and charm.

This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Western Iran by providing a comprehensive list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Western Iran

Western Iran has a lot to offer, from historical sites to natural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Western Iran has a rich and ancient history, and it is reflected in the variety of historical places and museums in the region. Here are some of the most important ones to visit:

  • Takht-e Soleyman: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Takht-e Soleyman is an ancient Zoroastrian temple complex located in the city of Takab. It dates back to the Sassanid era and features several notable ruins, including a fire temple and the Palace of Anahita.
  • Bisotun Inscription: Located in Kermanshah province, Bisotun Inscription is a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the Achaemenid era. It features a massive rock-carved relief depicting King Darius the Great and inscriptions in multiple languages, including Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian.
  • Tagh-e Bostan: An impressive collection of Sassanid rock reliefs in Kermanshah, showing scenes of royal hunting and religious events.
  • Hegmataneh: A historical site in Hamadan city, it was the capital city of the Medes before Cyrus the Great made it the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The site offers the possibility to see pieces of Persian history and culture.
  • Bazaar of Kermanshah: One of the oldest and largest bazaars in Iran, it is a vibrant and colorful place that offers a unique shopping experience.

Natural Attractions of Western Iran: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Western Iran is known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation activities. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Zagros Mountains: Considered to be one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Iran, the Zagros Mountains are great for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. The mountains offer impressive views of valleys, rivers and wildlife.
  • Shahrekord Lakes: Located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, this region is well-known for its beautiful azure colored lakes including the famous Sheykh Ali Khan lake, which provides opportunities for boating and fishing.
  • Bisheh Waterfall: Located in Lorestan province, Bisheh waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iran. It is possible to hike to the waterfall through a scenic and beautiful trail.
  • Oshtoran Kooh: A stunning mountain range located in Kermanshah province. Beautiful hiking routes in Oshtoran Kooh come with views of rugged terrain, wildlife and sometimes snow capped peaks.
  • Ali Sadr Cave: One of the world’s largest water caves located in west of Hamdan city where the visitor can paddleboat  through a unique experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Iran

Western Iran is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are a few popular routes to explore:

  • Bisheh to Chelgerd: A popular hike offering spectacular views of the Bisheh waterfall and the surrounding landscape. The entire route takes around 3 to 4 hours.
  • Oshtoran Kooh to Bistoon: This challenging and breathtaking route takes around four days to complete. It offers views of the spectacular Oshtoran Kooh mountain range and the iconic Bisotun Inscription.
  • Koohrang to Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province: Known for its thick forests of oak, maple and walnut, the Koohrang region is great for hiking and it is possible to continue to Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province too.
  • Pol-e Dokhtar to Negin Bridge: This biking route is a mix of pavement and dirt road, and it offers stunning views of the Zagros mountain range and the green valleys.

Best Things to Do in Western Iran: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Western Iran also offers plenty of other activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • City Tours: Explore the cities and all their historic sites by joining guided city tours.
  • Eco-Tours: Get up close and personal with nature in Western Iran by joining guided eco-tours that take you through forests, mountains and lakes.
  • Food Tours: Sample local delicacies and explore the culinary traditions of Western Iran by joining a guided food tour.
  • Cultural Tours: Explore the local culture and history of West Iran by joining a guided cultural tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Western Iran

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to West Iran:

Day 1-2: Kermanshah

  • Visit the Bisotun Inscription and Taq-e Bostan.
  • Explore Kermanshah city and its bazaar.
  • Head to Oshtoran Kooh mountain range for trekking and enjoying the nature.
  • Spend one night in Kermanshah.

Day 3-4: Hamadan

  • Visit Avicenna’s tomb, Ali Sadr cave and Hegmataneh.
  • Visit Nahavand fortress.
  • Spend one night in Hamadan

Day 5: Ilam

  • Explore the historic city of Ilam.
  • Visit the UNESCO-recognised Ilam Historical and Natural Museum.
  • Spend one night in Ilam.

Day 6-7: Kurdistan

  • Visit Sanandaj city.
  • Visit the Kurdish Textile Bazaar which has a wide range of high quality and colorful textiles and handicrafts and Kolbars village (mountain people who are carrying good on their shoulder).
  • Spend one night in Sanandaj city.

Food and Drink Scene of Western Iran

Western Iran is known for its rich and flavorful culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Koubideh: Grilled minced meat seasoned with spices and herbs, served with rice and vegetables.
  • Fesenjan: A stew made from ground walnuts and pomegranate juice, served with rice.
  • Dizi: A hearty meat and bean stew, served in a traditional stone bowl and consumed with a flatbread.
  • Kaleh Joosh (Kurdish Yogurt Soup): A refreshing soup made from yogurt, mint, and other herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Doogh: A refreshing drink made from yogurt mixed with salt, water, and mint.
  • Sherbet: A sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from fruit juices and flavors.
  • Tea: Iran is famous for its tea culture, with black tea being the most popular drink.

Where to Stay in Western Iran: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Western Iran offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and traveler type. Here are some options to consider:

  • Hotels: There are several high-end hotels in the major cities of Western Iran, including international hotel chains like Accor Hotels and Hilton Hotels.
  • Guesthouses: A cheaper option than hotels, guesthouses offer a more authentic and local experience. Hiking and biking hotspots such as Oshtoran Kooh mountains also offer small and basic rooms in their basecamps.
  • Hostels: Hostels provide budget-friendly accommodations with a chance to socialize with other travelers.

What to Buy in Western Iran: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Western Iran is home to a range of handicrafts and local products that make for great souvenirs. Here are some to consider:

  • Kurdish Carpets: Hand-woven carpets with colorful and intricate designs, made by local Kurdish weavers.
  • Pottery: Traditional glazed clay pots and plates, crafted in Hamadan and other cities.
  • Saffron: Iranian saffron is considered to be one of the best in the world, and it is widely available in Western Iran.
  • Kurdish Dress and Textiles: The traditional dress of Kurdish people, with bold colors and patterns, is a popular souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Western Iran

Iran is a country that values its culture and traditions. When visiting Western Iran, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and etiquettes. Here are some tips:

  • Dress Modestly: In Islamic culture women are expected to cover their hair and wear modest clothing that covers their arms and legs.
  • Greetings and Politeness: The locals of Western Iran are very courteous and polite. It is customary to greet people with “Salam” (hello) or “Khosh amadid” (welcome).
  • Hospitality: Hospitality is an integral part of the Iranian culture. It is common to invite guests to dine at home and share meals.

Best Time to Visit Western Iran

The best time to visit Western Iran is during the spring and fall when the temperature is moderate, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summers can be very hot and dry, while winters tend to be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Western Iran

Do:

  • Do carry cash as credit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Do respect the Islamic culture and traditions, such as dress codes while in public.
  • Do try the local food and drinks.
  • Do bargain while shopping if visiting local markets like bazaars.

Don’t:

  • Don’t show public display of affection.
  • Don’t photograph people without their permission or taking photos of military or government buildings, installations or personnel.
  • Don’t drink any tap water or eat uncooked food outside well-known restaurants.

Safety and Health

Western Iran is generally a safe region to visit. However, it is always recommended to take necessary precautions, especially when hiking or trekking outdoors. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Western Iran

  • Follow the local customs and norms.
  • Avoid shady areas and travel in groups.
  • Do not walk or hike alone in isolated areas.
  • Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Health in Western Iran

  • Consult your doctor before traveling to get all necessary vaccinations.
  • Pack a first-aid kit and necessary medicines.
  • Drink only bottled water.
  • Avoid eating from roadside food stalls.

Getting to Western Iran: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Western Iran is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. Here are some ways to get to Western Iran:

  • Airplanes: The main international airports in Western Iran are in Kermanshah and Sanandaj. Several airlines operate from different parts of the world, with connections to major Iranian cities.
  • Buses: The region is also accessible via bus from other Iranian cities. Major bus stations are available in different parts of the region.
  • Taxis/Shared Taxis: Taxis can be found easily throughout Iran, and shared taxis are available for long-distance travel at affordable prices.

Airports Near Western Iran

  • Kermanshah Airport
  • Sanandaj Airport

Bus Stations Near Western Iran

  • Kermanshah Bus Terminal
  • Sanandaj Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Private cars/taxis: Private car/taxi services can be booked in advance or hired from airports and bus terminals directly.

How to Get Around in Western Iran

The easiest way to get around in Western Iran is by hiring a private taxi or using ride-hailing apps such as Snapp or Tap30. Buses, shared taxis and local buses are available if you want to travel on a budget.

Where to Go Next from Western Iran: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Western Iran, you might want to consider visiting some of the nearby destinations. Here are some suggestions:

  • Isfahan: This beautiful city is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Naqsh-e Jahan Square and the Shah Mosque.
  • Tabriz: A major city in the north-western part of Iran, known for its grand bazaar, historic sites and mosques.
  • Shiraz: This ancient city is known as the city of poets, literature and flowers. Main attractions include the Pink Mosque and Persepolis.

Conclusion

Western Iran is a beautiful and diverse part of Iran, offering a wealth of culture, history, and natural scenery. This travel guide provides all the necessary information you need to plan a memorable trip to the region, including must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and more. Don’t forget to fully experience the local food, hospitality and traditions of Western Iran.



    Alborz (province)
    Central Western Iran
    Lorestan
    Southwestern Iran