Iran beyond the usual routes: a trip to 10 lesser-seen cities

With its natural, historical and cultural diversity, Iran has many tourist destinations to visit; But many people only go to famous cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz and Mashhad and ignore the pristine and less known destinations. In this article, we introduce 10 lesser-seen cities of Iran that can bring you a different and special travel experience.

Baneh Green nature and thriving markets

Baneh is located in Kurdistan province and is one of the popular destinations for buying cheap goods due to its popular markets. But this city is more than a shopping destination. Baneh, with its green mountains and oak forests, is an ideal place for nature tourism and hiking. Dekanan Mountain Park, with its beautiful scenery and pleasant weather, provides a great opportunity for a memorable day with family members or friends. Also, visiting Bane Lake and watching the pristine scenery around it will bring you unforgettable moments.

_{Photo source: Google Map, photographer: Aso Namo (Kurdi)}

they want A village in the heart of the rocks of Kerman

Maimand, one of the historical villages of Kerman province, is famous for its houses carved into the rocks. This historic village, registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List, gives you a chance to travel back in time and see the simple and authentic life of the native people. Meimand houses are dug directly in the heart of the mountains without using mortar and have a different and unique atmosphere. Visiting the Meimand Anthropology Museum will also give you more information about the history and culture of this region.

rare chelate; A historical treasure in the heart of the mountain

Kalat Naderi, in northeastern Iran, is a suitable destination for those interested in history and architecture. Naderi inscription, one of the most famous attractions of this city, was engraved during the period of Nader Shah Afshar and has been registered in the national register. Among the other attractions of this city, we can mention the Qarasu waterfall, which with its beautiful nature, provides a great opportunity for photography and recreation.

Nain; A trip to the heart of the desert

Nayin, one of the oldest cities of Iran in Isfahan province, has unique attractions with its spectacular architecture. Jame Nayin Mosque, one of the most important historical buildings of this city, with an age of more than 1000 years, is an example of Iranian-Islamic architecture. Nayin’s water reservoirs and tall windmills have also created a traditional and beautiful atmosphere for the city that takes you to the heart of history.

_{Photo source: Wikimedia, photographer: NAEINSUN}

roast The land of gardens and mountains

Taft, near the city of Yazd, with pomegranate gardens and high mountains, displays a beautiful contrast of desert and mountain nature. Sadri Garden, one of the beautiful gardens of this city, has a relaxing atmosphere with a historical mansion and tall trees. Dargahan waterfall and Tazarjan village are also other natural attractions of this area where you can go hiking and nature tourism.

mood The city of sunflowers

Khoi, one of the scenic cities of West Azarbaijan province, is famous for its sunflower fields and beautiful nature. Khoi stone gate (Qala Qapisi) is one of the historical attractions of this city and a relic of the Qajar period, which is in the list of national monuments of Iran. Shams Tabrizi Mausoleum, Surap Sarkis Church, and Khoi Bazaar are other places to visit in Khoi.

_{Photo source: Google Map, photographer: Kaveh Rahimi}

Sareen Hot springs and cool mountain air

Sarein, in Ardabil province, is famous for its hot springs and beautiful nature. This city is a great destination for those looking for relaxation and relief from muscle pain. Sareen hot springs, with therapeutic properties, provide you with a different travel experience. Also, in the winter season, Alvares ski resort is a great place for skiing and winter fun.

Tabas; The desert paradise of Iran

Tabas is a desert city in the west of South Khorasan province of Iran, which can be a great travel destination with its amazing nature and many historical attractions. Gulshan Garden, one of the most beautiful Iranian gardens, is a great place to relax and have fun, with lush groves and water fountains. Kal Jeni Valley, with high cliffs and natural holes and tunnels in the heart of the rocks, is an exciting place for climbing and photography.

_{Photo source: Google Map, photographer: Soraya Hafezi Motlagh}

Ramsar; Combination of mountain and sea

Ramsar is one of the beautiful cities in the north of Iran, which includes both dense forests and the coast of the Caspian Sea. Visiting the Dalkhani forest and walking in its green paths will give you a unique experience of nature. Siasert waterfall and Javaherdeh village are also other attractions of this area that you should not miss.

Bam The city of historical citadels

Bam, with its historical citadel, is one of the most important tourist destinations in Iran. Bam Citadel, as the largest adobe structure in the world, is considered an example of Iranian architecture, which was rebuilt after the earthquake of 2002 and is still standing. Qasim Abad Bam Qanat is one of the other sights of Bam city, which has been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

_{Photo source: Google Map, photographer: Mehdiar Bazaz}

These 10 cities, with all their lesser-seen and different attractions, are a great opportunity to escape from the touristy and crowded destinations of Iran. If you are looking for a new experience and discovering unknown places, be sure to include these cities in your itinerary and enjoy their beauty and originality. Have you ever visited any of these cities? Be sure to share your experience and memories with your companions.

_{Cover photo source: Google Map, photographer: Reza Abd (Meimand village)}