Nazarabad Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Nazarabad with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and where to stay in this beautiful city.


Introduction to Nazarabad

Nazarabad is a hidden gem in Alborz Province, Western Iran, waiting to be explored. The city lies on the foothills of the Alborz Mountains, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque scenery. Nazarabad’s rich history, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a serene and authentic Iranian experience.

List of Places to Visit in Nazarabad

Nazarabad has something to offer for every type of traveler. Here are some highlights of what to see and do in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The historical village of Abyaneh
  • The impressive Kashan bazaar, which is not far from the city
  • The ancient Kharaghan twin towers
  • The majestic Narin castle
  • The stunning Baghestan palace
  • The Azar Castle, which dates back to over 500 years ago

Natural Attractions of Nazarabad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The beautiful Abnik Canyon, which is perfect for hiking
  • The refreshing Nazarabad Waterfall
  • The serene Lake Howz-e Soltan
  • The magnificent Damavand mountain
  • The charming Safa Lake

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nazarabad

Nazarabad is blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in the city include:

  • The Seraj valley trail, with its scenic views of the valleys and mountains
  • The stunning Deh-e Ghezel route, which offers a mix of wildflowers and rocky terrain
  • The Peak of Alam-Kuh route, which is Iran’s second-highest peak, with a breathtaking view of the Alborz Mountains

Best Things to Do in Nazarabad: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the city’s cultural landmarks and historic sites with a guided tour
  • Experience the thrill of rock climbing on the Alborz mountainside
  • Take a relaxing horse ride in the lush greenery of Nazarabad
  • Visit the Nazarabad Waterfall and picnic in the surrounding area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nazarabad

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran, transfer to Nazarabad and check-in your hotel.

Day 2: Visit Kharaghan Twin Towers and Narin castle, then head to the Safa Lake for a nice boat ride.

Day 3: Visit the stunning Abnik Canyon and explore the Baghestan palace.

Day 4: Visit the enchanting village of Abyaneh and witness the old architecture and culture of the village.

Day 5: Go hiking on the Peak of Alam-Kuh route, which is the second highest mountain in Iran.

Day 6: Visit the lake Howz-e Soltan and relax in the sun by the lake.

Day 7: Departure day.

Food and Drink Scene of Nazarabad

No trip to Nazarabad is complete without indulging in the city’s mouth-watering local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fesenjan: a stew made of ground walnut and pomegranate paste
  • Dizi: a hearty lamb stew served with bread
  • Gheymeh: a flavorful stew made with yellow split peas and chunks of lamb

Local Beverages

  • Doogh: a refreshing and savory yogurt-based drink
  • Sharbat-e Sekanjebin: a sweetened vinegar-based drink that cleanses the palate

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

Nazarabad has several accommodation options to meet every traveler’s budget and preferences. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Gol-e Sorkh Guesthouse: a charming guesthouse with a beautiful garden
  • Alborz Hotel: a comfortable mid-range hotel in the center of the city
  • Silver House: a budget-friendly hostel with clean and cozy rooms

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

  • Clay pots: artisan-made clay pots and vessels are a Nazarabad specialty
  • Traditional Clothing: Abyaneh Village produces some of Iran’s most beautiful handmade clothing
  • Rosewater: Abyaneh’s Rosewater is some of the best in Iran

Local Culture and Customs of Nazarabad

Iranians are known for their warm hospitality and customs, which have been passed down through generations. Visitors should respect these traditions by dressing modestly and removing their shoes when entering homes or religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Nazarabad

The best time to visit Nazarabad is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be too hot, and winter months are often too cold and snowy for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nazarabad

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine
  • Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Do be respectful of local customs
  • Do bring comfortable walking shoes for hiking

Don’t:

  • Don’t take pictures of people without asking permission
  • Don’t drink alcohol in public
  • Don’t make physical contact with strangers of the opposite sex
  • Don’t point your feet at people, as this is considered offensive in Iran

Safety and Health

Safety in Nazarabad

Nazarabad is a generally safe city, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and trust your instincts if you feel unsafe.

Health in Nazarabad

Tap water in Nazarabad is not safe to drink, so it’s best to stick to bottled water. Visitors should also be aware of the high altitude when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Nazarabad: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • By plane: The closest major airport is the Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport, which is approximately a 2-hour drive from Nazarabad
  • By bus: There are several bus companies that offer daily trips from Tehran to Nazarabad.

Getting Around in Nazarabad

The best way to get around Nazarabad is by taxi or private car. Shared taxi services are also available for those traveling on a budget.

Where to Go Next from Nazarabad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tehran: the bustling capital city of Iran
  • Kashan: the city of historical treasures and beautiful gardens
  • Qazvin: the ancient and historic city with numerous tourist attractions
  • Abyaneh: one of the most well-preserved examples of Iranian architecture

Conclusion

Nazarabad is a beautiful, authentic, and underrated city that deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list. Its rich cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and welcoming locals make it an unforgettable destination. Plan your trip today and explore the charm of Nazarabad for yourself.