Khorramabad Travel Guide

Planning to visit Khorramabad in Lorestan, Iran? Check out our comprehensive travel guide for information on tourist attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scenes, hotels, transportation, safety, and culture.


Introduction to Khorramabad

Located in the province of Lorestan, Khorramabad is a picturesque city in western Iran. Known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, Khorramabad has become a popular destination for tourists.

With a population of over 300,000 people, Khorramabad is the third-largest city in Lorestan. The city is also home to several important historical sites, including the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle and the ancient ruins of Khazineh.

List of Places to Visit in Khorramabad

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Falak-ol-Aflak Castle: This 12th-century castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Khorramabad. Built during the Sassanid era, it is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Ancient Ruins of Khazineh: These ruins are believed to date back to the Parthian era and are a must-visit for history lovers. The complex includes a mosque, a bathhouse, and several other structures from this time period.

  • Ava Palace Museum: Once a royal palace, Ava Palace is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of Khorramabad. The palace is known for its unique architecture and beautiful interior decor.

Natural Attractions of Khorramabad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shapour Abshar National Park: This park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, bike, or picnic in the park while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

  • Dareh-Zereshk Waterfall: Located in a stunningly beautiful valley, this waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and swimming. The surrounding mountains add to the beauty of the site and offer great photo opportunities.

  • Khorramabad Lake: This artificial lake is a great spot for fishing and boating. It is also a popular spot for spending time with family and enjoying a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Khorramabad

  • Choghakhor: This is a great hiking spot for beginners. It offers a relatively easy trail that takes visitors through beautiful landscapes.

  • Neya: This biking route is perfect for those who want a challenging climb. The route takes visitors through the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Oshtrankouh: This hiking route offers a more challenging climb than Choghakhor. Visitors will have to navigate steep slopes, but the views from the top are worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Khorramabad: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle: This castle is one of the major landmarks in Khorramabad and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

  • Explore the Ruins of Khazineh: These ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the past and are a great destination for history lovers.

  • Hike in Shapour Abshar National Park: This park offers some of the most picturesque hiking trails in Khorramabad.

Week-Long Itinerary for Khorramabad

Day Activity
1 Visit the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle and explore the surrounding areas
2 Visit the Ava Palace Museum, then take a tour of the nearby historical sites
3 Hike in Shapour Abshar National Park
4 Visit Dareh-Zereshk waterfall
5 Go fishing or boating in Khorramabad Lake
6 Bike in Neya Route
7 Relax and shop for souvenirs in the local markets.

Food and Drink Scene of Khorramabad

Must-Try Dishes

  • Halim Bademjan: This dish is made with eggplants, lentils, and spices. It is a popular vegetarian dish in Khorramabad.

  • Gheimeh Nesar: This is a traditional meat and vegetable stew that is served with rice.

  • Kalleh-Pacheh: This is a soup made from lamb or cow’s head and feet. It is a popular breakfast food in Khorramabad.

Local Beverages

  • Doogh: This is a yogurt-based drink that is flavored with mint and other herbs.

  • Sekanjabin: This is a sweet and sour drink that is made from honey, vinegar, and mint.

  • Sahlab: This is a hot drink that is made from orchid tubers and milk. It is often served with cinnamon.

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

  • Shams Hostel: This is a popular hostel in Khorramabad that offers affordable accommodation in a central location.

  • Khosravani Traditional Hotel: This hotel is located in a 300-year-old building and offers a unique and authentic experience.

  • Laleh Hotel: This is a modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and great amenities.

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

  • Hand-woven Carpets: These are traditional carpets that are made by local weavers using traditional techniques.

  • Copper and Brass Items: Khorramabad is known for its copper and brass products, including vases, plates, and decorative items.

  • Saffron: Iran produces some of the world’s finest saffron, and Khorramabad is a great place to buy it.

Local Culture and Customs of Khorramabad

Khorramabad is a traditional city with a rich history and unique culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Khorramabad

The best time to visit Khorramabad is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Khorramabad

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Negotiate prices when shopping in local markets.

  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places.

  • Take photographs of religious sites without permission.

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Khorramabad

Khorramabad is a relatively safe city, but visitors should still take basic precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Khorramabad

Visitors should drink only bottled water and avoid street food to prevent food poisoning. It is recommended to get vaccinated before traveling to Iran.

Getting to Khorramabad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Khorramabad

The nearest airport to Khorramabad is Khorramabad International Airport, which offers domestic flights to several cities in Iran.

Bus Stations Near Khorramabad

Khorramabad has several bus stations that offer both local and long-distance buses.

Other Options

Some visitors choose to drive to Khorramabad or hire a private car for their transportation needs.

How to Get Around in Khorramabad

The best way to get around Khorramabad is by taxi or bus. Taxis are often available on the street or can be hired through hotels or hostels. Buses are an affordable and convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Khorramabad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hamadan: This city is home to several historical sites, including the tomb of Avicenna, a famous Persian philosopher and scientist.

  • Isfahan: This city is known for its stunning architecture, including the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, one of the largest public squares in the world.

  • Tehran: The capital of Iran is a must-visit destination for visitors interested in history, culture, and modern Iran.

Conclusion

Khorramabad is the perfect destination for those interested in history, culture, and outdoor adventures. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, unique culture, and delicious cuisine, Khorramabad is a destination that should not be missed. Plan your trip today to experience everything this beautiful city has to offer.