Kermanshah Travel Guide

Are you planning your next travel adventure in Kermanshah? This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the attractions, culture, food, and more of Kermanshah, Iran.


Introduction to Kermanshah

Kermanshah is a gorgeous city located in Central Western Iran, snuggly placed in the Zagros Mountains. Inhabited by Kurds, the city boasts a rich history dating back to the Sassanid Era. The main language is Kurdish, but Farsi is also widely spoken. The city is well-known for being the birthplace of famous Persian personalities such as Imam Khomeini and Abdolhossein Teymourtash. With a population of around 1.4 million, the city owns a unique culture, vibrant cuisine, and architectural splendor.

Kermanshah is also an important hub connecting Iran with neighboring Iraq and Turkey, making it a popular destination among tourists. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will give you an excellent insight into the best places to visit, things to do, places to eat and drink, local culture and customs, essential travel information, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Kermanshah

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Taq-e Bostan

Taq-e Bostan is a historical site located about 5 km from central Kermanshah in the valley of the Sasanian Kings. The site features a series of designs and reliefs carved into the rocks that date back to the Sassanid dynasty’s rule in 226-651 AD. The most famous ones depict the three arches, a hunting scene featuring the Sassanid king, Shapur II, and Ahura Mazda, and a large relief of Shapur being crowned by Ahura Mazda.

Bisotun Inscription

Bisotun Inscription lies in the Zagros Mountains’ foothills and is a towering statue carved into the mountain. It dates back to 521 BC and was ordered by King Darius I to commemorate his victories against the tribes who rebelled against Persian rule. The statuary is known for its detailed carvings of King Darius, understood in three languages, Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian.

Anahita Temple

Anahita Temple is the remains of an ancient temple constructed to worship Anahita, the goddess of water and fertility. It is presumed to have been functional sometime during the Arsacid Dynasty’s rule in the first century AD. There are also several pools, fountains, and streams that are thought to have held ritualistic significance.

Natural Attractions of Kermanshah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Bisotun

Mount Bisotun is a popular location for hiking enthusiasts. The mountain is almost 1000 meters high and has an astounding view of the surrounding countryside. The trail is mildly strenuous, so it is suitable for all age groups.

Ghoori Ghaleh Waterfall

Ghoori Ghaleh Waterfall, situated in the Zagros Mountains, is a 30-meter high waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning scenic views that are sure to take your breath away.

Sarpol-e Zahab

Sarpol-e Zahab is a small town in Kermanshah province where the mountains meet the desert. A town known for its natural resources, such as precious stones, beautiful geodes, salt, and copper mines. You can explore the rocky terrain of the town and gaze upon some of the most beautiful geological formations in the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kermanshah

We have already listed Mount Bisotun as one of the best hiking spots in Kermanshah, but it is not the only one. The city also has several other routes that are suitable for hiking and cycling. These trails include the Parau Cave walking Trail, the Path of Gorges, and the Zagros Mountains Trail.

Best Things to Do in Kermanshah: Activities and Tours

Kermanshah has numerous activities and tours that tourists can enjoy during their stay. Here are a few examples of the best things you can do in Kermanshah:

  • Visit the Bazaar: The Bazaar of Kermanshah is one of the biggest Bazaars in Iran. You can enjoy the buzzing atmosphere, explore the various shops, purchase souvenirs or try some of the local tea or snacks.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: When in Kermanshah, you should not miss the authentic and flavorsome cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Ash-e Doogh, Qeytariyeh, and Ghormeh-Kashk-e-Bademjan.
  • Take a Day Tour: There are many day tours available to various attractions, such as the Bisotun Inscription or the Taq-e Bostan reliefs. The tours usually include a guide, a car or bus, entrance fees, and sometimes meals.
  • Visit the Mosques: Kermanshah has several beautiful and grand mosques, including the Jameh Mosque, Emad Al-Dowleh Mosque, and Sheikh Al-Islam Mosque.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kermanshah

If you plan to spend a week in Kermanshah, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Plan
Day 1 Visit Bisotun Inscription and Anahita Temple
Day 2 Take a day tour of Taq-e Bostan and the natural springs near the site.
Day 3 Go to Ghoori Ghaleh Waterfall and have a picnic there
Day 4 Explore the city’s highlights, including the Bazaar, t
he Mosques, the Moaven Al-Molk Tekyeh  
Day 5 Visit Sarpol-e Zahab and discover the town’s geological regions and resources.
Day 6 Relax and enjoy a day-nature walk in Mount Bisotun
Day 7 Shop for some souvenirs before departing for your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Kermanshah

Must-Try Dishes

One of the unique features of Kermanshah is its cuisine. The food here is rich in flavors, fragrant spices, and herbs. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Kermanshah:

Ash-e Doogh

Ash-e Doogh is a yogurt soup made from a mixture of lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs. It is thickened with chickpea flour and flavored with garlic, mint, and onions. It is a delicious and nutritious soup that is popular across Iran.

Qeytariyeh

Qeytariyeh is a traditional Kermanshah dish made from beef and sheep meatballs fried and soaked in a delicious tomato sauce. It is served with rice and is an explosion of flavors.

Ghormeh-Kashk-e-Bademjan

Ghormeh-Kashk-e-Bademjan is an eggplant stew with lamb, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce made from Kashk (a type of yogurt whey). The eggplants and lamb are slow-cooked, and the result is a rich and hearty stew that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Local Beverages

If you are a fan of local drinks, you must try these two Kermanshah drinks:

Doogh

Doogh is a refreshing yogurt drink that is popular across the Middle East. It is made from thick yogurt, water, and spices such as salt, black pepper, and mint. Some Kermanshah people like to add cucumbers and tomatoes to their Doogh for added flavor.

Sharbat

Sharbat is a non-alcoholic syrup beverage that is made from fruit juices, sugar, and herbs. Many Kermanshah people still make their Sharbat to this day, often using recipes that have been passed down through the generations.

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

There are several options for accommodation in Kermanshah, catering to different budgets and preferences:

  • Luxurious hotels: Examples include the Parsian Hotel and the Ghasr-e Bahram Hotel
  • Mid-range hotels: Examples include the Behistun Hotel and the Azadi Hotel
  • Guesthouses: Examples include the Hamshahri House and the Mihan Guest House
  • Hostels: Examples include the Fatima Hostel and the Aryak Hostel

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

If you are a shopping enthusiast, Kermanshah provides plenty of opportunities to indulge yourself. Here are some of the best places and products for shopping in Kermanshah:

  • Bazaar: The Bazaar is full of traditional items and souvenirs that are unique to Kermanshah, such as copper crafts, tribal carpets, spices, and sweets.
  • Silverware: Kermanshah is famous for its stunning silver jewelry and ornaments, which are great for gifts or to keep as a souvenir.
  • Pashmina shawls: Made from the wool of Himalayan mountain goats, Kermanshah’s pashmina shawls are exquisite and luxurious.

Local Culture and Customs of Kermanshah

Kermanshah has a unique culture that combines elements of ancient Persian culture with Kurdish traditions. The people are welcoming and hospitable and are known for their love of poetry, music, and the arts.

Best Time to Visit Kermanshah

The best time to visit Kermanshah is during the spring months of March to May and autumn months of September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the city is beautiful with its blooming flowers and rich foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kermanshah

Do:

  • Do bring a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water for your outdoor activities.
  • Do dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites.
  • Do try to learn some Farsi or Kurdish phrases, as it will help you communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wear revealing clothes, as it is deemed disrespectful to the local culture.
  • Don’t drink alcohol or smoke in public places as smoking and alcohol are generally frowned upon in Iran.
  • Don’t take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kermanshah

Kermanshah is generally a safe place to visit. Nevertheless, it is still best to be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially at markets.

Health in Kermanshah

Kermanshah had good medical facilities, both public and private. There are several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies available if you need medical attention.

Getting to Kermanshah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kermanshah

The closest airport to Kermanshah is Shahid Ashrafi Esfahani Airport, which is around 45 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Kermanshah

Kermanshah has several bus stations that serve intercity and regional routes, making it easy to access other parts of Iran. Some of the popular bus stations include Kermanshah Terminal, Qasr-e Shirin, and Sarpol-e Zahab.

Other Options

You can arrive in Kermanshah via a private vehicle, taxi, or train. The railway station is located about 20 km east of the city’s center, and train travel can be more comfortable and reliable than buses.

How to Get Around in Kermanshah

Kermanshah’s transportation is affordable, safe, and efficient, with local buses and taxis readily available. There is also a new metro system that is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in the near future.

Where to Go Next from Kermanshah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kermanshah is a perfect hub for exploring nearby destinations, such as Tehran, Ahvaz, Esfahan, and Shiraz. You can use Kermanshah as your base, take some day tours or stay a few days, and explore these nearby cities yourself.

Conclusion

Kermanshah is a vibrant, historic, and unique city that is brimming with culture, art, and natural beauty. With its stunning reliefs, incredible mountain ranges, and rich cuisine, this city has so much to offer its visitors. We hope this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip to Kermanshah and make lifetime memories.

Taq-e Bostan Taq-e Bostan Bisotun is UNESCO World Heritage Site Bisotun is UNESCO World Heritage Site