Masjed Solayman Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat and stay in Masjed Solayman, Iran. Get tips on culture, safety, transportation, hiking, food and more.


Introduction to Masjed Solayman

Located in the southwestern region of Iran, Masjed Solayman is a beautiful city that is steeped in rich culture and history. The city is home to beautiful historic structures and natural wonders that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this guide, we will explore the best things to do in Masjed Solayman, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Masjed Solayman

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Masjed Solayman is known for its rich history and numerous culturally important attractions. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • The Masjed Solayman Jameh Mosque: This beautiful mosque is considered to be one of the oldest mosques in Iran, dating back to the Sassanid era.

  • The Soltani Mosque: This mosque is an architectural wonder that dates back to the Qajar era. It has beautiful designs and decorations that showcase Persian art at its finest.

  • The Masjed Solayman Fire Temple: This ancient fire temple is considered to be one of the most important religious sites in Iran. It is believed that Zoroastrianism was founded in this temple.

  • The Masjed Solayman Petroglyphs: These ancient rock carvings date back to the prehistoric era and depict animals, hunting scenes, and daily life activities.

Natural Attractions of Masjed Solayman: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Masjed Solayman is home to numerous natural attractions that offer breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Shadegan Wetland: This wetland is a natural habitat for various species of birds and animals. It offers scenic views and is a great place for bird watching.

  • Gahar Lake: This beautiful lake is located in the heart of the Zagros Mountains and offers stunning views, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails.

  • Tang-e-Chowgan Canyon: This canyon is a natural wonder that offers scenic views, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is a great place for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Masjed Solayman

Masjed Solayman is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The city offers numerous scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes include:

  • Gahar Lake Hike: This 7-kilometer hike takes you through the beautiful Zagros Mountains and ends at the stunning Gahar Lake.

  • Tang-e-Chowgan Canyon Hike: This 9-kilometer hike takes you through the stunning Tang-e-Chowgan Canyon and offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, rock formations, and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Masjed Solayman: Activities and Tours

Masjed Solayman offers numerous activities and tours that cater to the needs of every traveler. Some of the best things to do in the city include:

  • City Tour: Take a guided tour of the city and explore its historic structures, cultural attractions, and natural wonders.

  • Camping: Masjed Solayman offers numerous camping spots that offer scenic views and outdoor adventures. Most campsites offer tents, food, and equipment rental services.

  • Bird Watching: Visit the Shadegan Wetland and observe numerous species of birds in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Masjed Solayman

If you are planning to visit Masjed Solayman, here is a week-long itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Arrival and Hotel Check-In

Day 2: City Tour

Day 3: Gahar Lake Hike

Day 4: Visit Shadegan Wetland for Bird Watching

Day 5: Tang-e-Chowgan Canyon Hike

Day 6: Camping

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Masjed Solayman

Must-Try Dishes

Masjed Solayman offers some of the best Persian cuisine that you must try. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Abgoosht: A traditional Persian stew made with lamb or beef, chickpeas, potato, and tomato.

  • Baghala Ghatogh: A vegetarian dish made with fava beans, garlic, dill, and turmeric.

  • Ghormeh Sabzi: A stew made with lamb, kidney beans, and a variety of herbs.

Local Beverages

Masjed Solayman offers a variety of local beverages that you must try. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Doogh: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and salt.

  • Sharbat: A sweet drink made with fruit syrup, sugar, and water.

  • Persian Tea: A strong black tea that is brewed with cardamom and sugar.

Where to Stay in Masjed Solayman: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Masjed Solayman offers numerous accommodation options that cater to the needs of every traveler. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Parsian Hotel Masjed Solayman: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city.

  • Hostel Masjed Solayman: A budget-friendly hostel that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  • Ekbatan Guesthouse: A traditional guesthouse that offers a unique Persian experience.

What to Buy in Masjed Solayman: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Masjed Solayman offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that you can bring home. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Handmade Carpets: Masjed Solayman is known for its handmade carpets that feature intricate Persian designs and craftsmanship.

  • Pistachios: Iran is known for its high-quality pistachios and Masjed Solayman is no exception. You can buy pistachios in bulk or in small packages.

  • Local Handicrafts: Masjed Solayman is home to numerous local artisans who create beautiful handicrafts, such as pottery, wood carvings, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Masjed Solayman

Iran is a conservative country that values its cultural traditions and customs. It is important to respect the local culture and dress modestly. Women are required to wear a headscarf and loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs.

Best Time to Visit Masjed Solayman

The best time to visit Masjed Solayman is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Masjed Solayman

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs.

  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

  • Learn some Persian phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t consume alcohol or drugs, as it is illegal in Iran.

  • Don’t take photographs of military installations or government buildings.

  • Don’t engage in public displays of affection.

Safety and Health

Safety in Masjed Solayman

Masjed Solayman is a safe city for travelers. However, it is important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping your belongings safe and avoiding deserted areas at night.

Health in Masjed Solayman

Iran has a good healthcare system that offers basic medical services to visitors. However, it is important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Masjed Solayman: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Masjed Solayman

The nearest airport to Masjed Solayman is Ahvaz International Airport, which is located approximately 120 kilometers from the city.

Bus Stations Near Masjed Solayman

Masjed Solayman has a bus station that offers regular bus services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

You can also hire a private car or taxi to travel to Masjed Solayman from nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Masjed Solayman

Masjed Solayman is a small city that can easily be explored on foot. You can also hire taxis, mopeds, or bicycles to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Masjed Solayman: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you are planning to explore nearby destinations from Masjed Solayman, here are some options:

  • Shushtar: This historic city is home to numerous water structures, such as bridges and dams, that date back to the Sassanid era.

  • Andimeshk: This city is home to numerous historic structures and cultural attractions, including the Andimeshk Castle and the Holy Shrine of Imam Mohammad Baqir.

Conclusion

Masjed Solayman is a beautiful city that offers a unique Persian experience to travelers. With its rich history, natural wonders, and cultural attractions, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler who wants to explore the beauty of Iran.