Iran Discovery Tour :Tehran, Lahijan, Masuleh, Mt. Sabalan, Takht-e Soleyman, Sanandaj, Kermanshah, Khoramabad, Koohrang, Isfahan

Day 1 Arrival Tehran

You arrive in the capital of Iran and will be met on the airport by our representative, who will escort you to the hotel

Day 2 Tehran

Your second day in Iran is devoted to exploring Tehran, the vibrant capital and the largest metropolitan city in the Middle East. Known as a city that never sleeps, Tehran has played a major role in Iran’s recent history and offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Although one day is not enough to uncover all its layers, it will certainly give you an inspiring first impression of the city and its many attractions, making it a memorable start to your journey.

Day 3 Tehran - Lahijan

After breakfast, you leave the busy city behind and travel through the lush valleys of the Alborz mountain range on your way to the Caspian Sea. The scenic Chalus Road, often considered one of the most beautiful routes in the country, winds through dramatic landscapes and offers breathtaking views at every turn. As you descend toward the northern coast, the scenery shifts noticeably: the region along the Caspian Sea is one of the greenest stretches in Iran, cherished by many Iranians who come from the drier, desert regions further south.

Your journey continues to the picturesque town of Lahijan, a place renowned for its tea plantations and gentle hillsides. Here you can stroll among the vibrant green fields on the slopes of “Sheitan Kuh,” taking in the fresh air and the sweeping views that characterize this peaceful corner of the country. It is a serene moment in your travels, offering a perfect contrast to the energy of the capital and a memorable introduction to northern Iran’s lush landscapes.

Day 4 Lahijan - Masuleh 

The route along the Caspian Sea leads you first to the port city of Bandar-e Anzali and then onward to Masuleh, a remarkably picturesque mountain village. Thanks to its location high in the misty hills, Masuleh is almost always wrapped in a soft fog, giving it a magical atmosphere. One of the village’s most striking features is its terraced architecture: the rooftops of the houses serve as pedestrian pathways, creating the feeling of walking along an elevated street suspended above the valley. With a history spanning at least a thousand years, Masuleh is considered one of the most beautiful and unique villages in Iran.

In the afternoon, you are free to explore the surroundings at your own pace. A gentle walk through the village offers wonderful views of the mountains and the traditional homes clinging to the slopes. If you have more time and energy, you may choose to hike to the impressive Rudkan Fortress, hidden deep within lush forest. Although reaching it requires a longer excursion, the journey through greenery and the historic ruins at the top make it a memorable highlight of this region.

Day 5 Masuleh - Meshkin Shehr

A long but exceptionally beautiful journey brings you into the province of Azerbaijan. As you travel, you pass through the green mountains of Talesh, a region known for its traditional nomadic communities and its small, scattered mountain villages. The landscape gradually opens toward Ardabil, the main city of the Azerbaijani region and historically an important Sufi center. Its most notable landmark is the Mausoleum of Sheikh Safi-od-Din Ishaq, the revered ancestor of the Safavid dynasty, which still stands as a masterpiece of spiritual and architectural heritage.

Day 6 Meshkin Shehr

Today offers several different possibilities, each showcasing a unique aspect of the Sabalan region.

Mt. Sabalan is home to the Shah Savan nomads, a Turkic-speaking tribe who pitch their tents on the mountain’s foothills from spring to autumn. A hike through the surrounding valleys allows you to meet some of these nomads and gain a glimpse into their way of life, shaped by centuries of pastoral traditions and seasonal migration.

Another option is to visit the Ghotorsoei hot springs, a relaxing alternative if you prefer a slower pace for the day. The steaming mineral waters are a welcome contrast to the fresh mountain air and make for a pleasant break in your journey.

For those drawn to adventure, Mt. Sabalan also offers the opportunity to climb. From this area, you can rent a jeep that brings you to the base camp, located near a small mosque where many tents of aspiring climbers are usually set up. Although not technically difficult, the ascent is one of the most popular climbs in Iran. You can choose to hike part of the route for the experience, or—if you plan to reach the summit—you will need to start very early in the morning to make the full climb in daylight.

Day 7 Meshkin Shehr - Takht-e Soleyman

A long day of travel takes you across vast, barren landscapes toward one of Iran’s most significant historic sites: Takht-e Soleyman, also known as the Throne of Solomon. As you approach, the stark beauty of the surrounding plains highlights just how important and strategic this location once was. Within the complex you will find the remains of an ancient fortress that played a major role during the eras of the Parthians, Achaemenids, and Sassanids.

Takht-e Soleyman is also a sacred place for Zoroastrians, home to several ancient temples that once formed the spiritual heart of the region. Its deep historical and religious importance, combined with its striking setting around a natural spring lake, earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list—one of 24 such sites in Iran.

After your visit, you will spend the night in an eco-resort located not far from the archaeological complex. Surrounded by quiet nature and star-filled skies, it offers a peaceful end to a day rich in history and dramatic landscapes.

Day 8 Takht-e Soleyman - Sanandaj

Your next stop is Sanandaj, the capital of the Iranian part of Kurdistan. This is one of the most beautiful and mountainous regions of Iran.

The Kurdish people are easily recognizable by their traditional attire—baggy trousers for men and colorful dresses for women. Renowned for their hospitality, they warmly welcome foreign visitors. The region is dotted with picturesque mountain villages that are a delight to explore.

In Sanandaj, you will stay overnight. Highlights of the city include:

• Sanandaj Bazaar – a bustling market where Kurds and other locals sell and buy a variety of goods.

• Asef Mansion – a historical house dedicated to Kurdish culture.

• Regional Museum – showcasing the heritage and traditions of Kurdistan.

Day 9 Sanandaj - Kermanshah via Palangan

Today you will drive through the scenic landscapes of Kurdistan, heading towards Palangan, a picturesque mountain village.

Palangan is famous for its stapled houses perched on mountain slopes, nestled in a lush valley with a small river flowing through. The village offers a charming, tranquil atmosphere with shaded fish restaurants where you can savor the fresh trout. The valley is also alive with local sheep and goats, giving you a glimpse of traditional Kurdish rural life.

After exploring Palangan, you continue to Kermanshah, one of the main Kurdish cities in western Iran. To immerse yourself in the local culture, we will try to accommodate you in a restored old caravanserai, giving you a unique historical experience in the heart of the city.

Kermanshah, like Sanandaj, is a bustling and intriguing city, offering a mix of Kurdish traditions, Persian history, and vibrant urban life.

Day 10 Kermanshah - Khoramabad via Bisotun and Taq-e Bustan

Near Kermanshah, you will encounter two of Iran’s most remarkable examples of ancient rock art.

First is Taq-e Bostan, a series of Sassanid-era rock reliefs dating from the 4th century. Here you will admire intricate carvings depicting kings Ardashir II and Shapur II, offering a fascinating glimpse into the art, culture, and power of the Sassanid dynasty.

Next, you continue to Bisotun, located on the ancient trade route connecting Ecbatana (modern Hamadan) and Babylon. At this UNESCO World Heritage site, the relief of King Darius I of the Achaemenid Empire is carved high into the cliff, accompanied by inscriptions in three ancient languages, recording his achievements and asserting his rule.

After exploring these ancient masterpieces, you continue west into the province of Lorestan, home to the Lurs, one of Iran’s many nomadic tribes. In the evening, you arrive in Khoramabad, the provincial capital, where the city is dominated by an ancient fortress perched on a hill, overlooking the town—a perfect introduction to the rich history and traditions of the region.

Day 11 Khoramabad - Chelgerd

A beautiful day brings you to the Koohrang mountain range, home of the Bakhtiari nomads, one of the largest tribes in Iran. The men are easily recognizable by their traditional black-and-white striped coats and black hats, while the women wear colorful garments that reflect their rich cultural heritage.

The small town of Chelgerd, known as one of Iran’s ski resorts, also serves as a hub for the Bakhtiari. During the summer months, the nomads gather in the surrounding valleys to herd their sheep and goats in the lush mountain pastures. In winter, they migrate to the warmer lowlands of Khuzestan. Witnessing this seasonal movement—from winter to summer pastures—is considered one of Iran’s most captivating sights. Historically, it could take many weeks, though today vehicles have shortened the journey.

In the evening, you sleep in a tented camp in a valley, surrounded by nomad tents. The serene mountain views and the rhythm of nomadic life make this an unforgettable experience.

Day 12 Chelgerd

Today is a full day to enjoy the spectacular nature of the Koohrang region. You have multiple options depending on your energy and interest:

• Hiking in the mountains, exploring lush valleys and alpine scenery.

• Horse riding, with horses available for rent, letting you cover more ground and enjoy panoramic views.

• Glacier climbing, accessible by driving a little up the valley. The climb is challenging but rewards you with breathtaking views.

• Visiting remote mountain villages, including Sar-e Agha Sayed, one of Iran’s most secluded and picturesque villages.

Throughout the day, you will see Bakhtiari nomads with their black tents, and you will have opportunities to learn about their traditional nomadic lifestyle, from herding to cooking.

In the evening, enjoy a classic Bakhtiari meal—kebab prepared in the traditional way—while soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere.

Day 13 Chelgerd - Isfahan

Today you will travel to the splendid city of Isfahan, a true jewel of Persian-Islamic architecture.

Your tour begins at the Naghsh-e Jahan Square, one of the largest city squares in the world. On its eastern side, you will visit the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, built during the Safavid dynasty under Shah Abbas I. This mosque was a private place of worship for the royal court and is renowned for its intricate tilework and stunning interior design.

On the south side of the square is the Imam Mosque (formerly Shah Mosque), also commissioned by Shah Abbas I. It is considered a masterpiece of Persian architecture, with its grand domes, intricate mosaics, and harmonious proportions.

Opposite Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque stands the Ali Qapu Palace, a magnificent example of Safavid art and architecture, originally used by the Shah for ceremonies and entertainment.

Next, explore the Qeysarie Bazaar, located on the northern side of the square. This historic bazaar is one of Isfahan’s oldest, and its high-ceilinged corridors adorned with paintings and detailed artwork are a delight to explore.

In the afternoon, a visit to Chehel Sotoun is highly recommended. Built under Shah Abbas II, this pavilion sits in the middle of a beautiful park and was used for royal entertainment. Its reflection in the water and elegant frescoes make it a highlight of Safavid architecture.

In the evening, enjoy Isfahan at your own pace. Wander through the streets, soak in the lively atmosphere, and have dinner in one of the many excellent local restaurants, all serving high-quality Persian cuisine.

Day 14 Isfahan

Wake up in Isfahan, your mind still filled with dreams of intricate eslimi patterns, miniatures, and frescoes from yesterday’s explorations. Today offers another chance to discover the city’s charm.

Isfahan is famous for the Zayandehrood, the largest river of the Iranian Plateau. Wherever the river flows, beautiful bridges span its waters. There are eleven historical bridges over the Zayandehrood, and today you will visit two of the most iconic:

• Si-o Se Pol (Allahverdikhan Bridge) – the largest and most famous bridge of Isfahan, known for its 33 arches and lively atmosphere.

• Khaju Bridge – described by Arthur Pope and Jean Chardin as “the culminating monument of Persian bridge architecture”, it combines rhythm, dignity, utility, beauty, and recreation in perfect harmony.

Next, explore the Armenian Quarter in Jolfa, a vibrant district with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Vank Cathedral, a stunning example of Armenian architecture, and its museum showcasing local history. While strolling through Jolfa’s streets and alleys, the aroma of coffee fills the air—many charming coffee bars invite you to take a break and enjoy a cup.

Jolfa is also a wonderful place to spend the evening. Locals, especially young people, gather for dinner or street food, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to experience modern life mixed with traditional culture in Isfahan.