News Archives

Ash Festival of Zanjan

August 23, 2026 August 23, 2026
Mohammad
Festivals & Events, Foods & Drinks, News
Ash Festival, culinary tourism Iran, food tourism, Gavazang Complex, Iranian Cuisine, Iranian ethnic groups, Iranian food festival, Iranian handicrafts, Persian Ash, Persian soup, traditional cooking, Zanjan

The National Ash Festival of Zanjan A Celebration of Iran’s Culinary and Cultural Heritage Introduction: A Feast of Flavors and Unity In the heart of northwestern Iran, the city of Zanjan plays host to one of the country’s most vibrant and culturally significant events: the National Ash Festival. This is not just a food

Alamut Castle Inscribed on the UNESCO

July 26, 2026 July 27, 2026
Mehrdad
News, UNESCO Creative Cities
Alamut Castle, Alamut Valley, Iran cultural heritage, IRAN UNESCO sites, UNESCO IRAN, UNESCO World Heritage Iran

Iran Celebrates Its 30th World Heritage Site Alamut Castle and Its Historic Fortresses Inscribed on the UNESCO Iran has officially welcomed its 30th UNESCO World Heritage Site as the Alamut Castle and its Associated Fortifications. These were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea. The newly inscribed building is not limited just to the famous Alamut Castle. UNESCO recognized a defensive network consisting of seven historic fortresses spread across the alleys of Eastern and Western Alamut in the Alborz Mountains. The property includes: Alamut Castle Lambsar Fortress Navizar Shah Fortress Shams Kalayeh Fortress Qostin Lar Fortress Shirkuh Fortress Ilan Fortress Together, these castles formed one of medieval Iran's most sophisticated mountain defense systems. Perched dramatically on a towering rocky cliff about 105 kilometers north of Qazvin, Alamut Castle overlooks deep valleys and rugged mountain landscapes. For nearly two centuries, from the late 11th century until the Mongol invasion in 1256, it served as the political, military, and intellectual center of the Nizari Ismaili state under Hasan-i Sabbah’s leadership. Apart from its reputation, Alamut was an extraordinary example of medieval engineering where archaeological studies highlighted its advanced water collection and storage systems. Its carefully designed fortifications, and strategic mountain architecture enabled the fortress to withstand long sieges. Historical records also describe Alamut as a center of scholarship, home to an important library and scientific activities. Rising above the cliffs, Alamut is far more than an ancient fortress. It is a symbol of resilience, strategic ingenuity, and one of Iran's most fascinating episodes of medieval history. For centuries, Alamut Castle has watched over the valleys of the Alborz, preserving stories that continue to inspire historians, archaeologists, and travelers from around the world. This new inscription

Iran Celebrates Its 30th World Heritage Site Alamut Castle and Its Historic Fortresses Inscribed on the UNESCO Iran has officially welcomed its 30th UNESCO World Heritage Site as the Alamut Castle and its Associated Fortifications. These were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held

Iran’s Khorramabad Valley in UNESCO Map

UNESCO’s New 2025–2026 World Heritage Map Now Features Iran’s Khorramabad Valley UNESCO’s Latest World Heritage Map Includes Iran’s Newest Treasure UNESCO has unveiled its 2025–2026 World Heritage Map, showcasing every property currently inscribed on the World Heritage List. For the first time, the Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley appear on UNESCO’s official global map, marking another important milestone for one of the world’s most significant archaeological landscapes. Although the Khorramabad Valley was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025, its inclusion on the newly published map gives the site even greater international visibility. Used by travelers, researchers, educators, and heritage enthusiasts worldwide, the UNESCO World Heritage Map is far more than a simple geographic reference—it is a visual guide to humanity’s most exceptional cultural and natural treasures. For Iran, the addition of the Khorramabad Valley represents another proud moment. The country now boasts 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting its extraordinary contribution to the story of human civilization. What Is the UNESCO World Heritage Map? Every few years, UNESCO publishes an updated World Heritage Map reflecting the current list of recognized cultural and natural properties across the globe. The map is designed to help travelers, students, historians, and governments explore the distribution of World Heritage Sites while raising awareness about their protection. Every new inscription is eventually added to this official map, making it one of the most authoritative visual references for global heritage. The publication of the 2025–2026 edition is particularly significant for Iran because it introduces the Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley to millions of people who use UNESCO’s educational materials and travel resources. Where Is the Khorramabad Valley? The Khorramabad Valley lies in Lorestan Province in western Iran, surrounded by the spectacular Zagros Mountains. For thousands of years, these mountains

UNESCO’s New 2025–2026 World Heritage Map Now Features Iran’s Khorramabad Valley UNESCO’s Latest World Heritage Map Includes Iran’s Newest Treasure UNESCO has unveiled its 2025–2026 World Heritage Map, showcasing every property currently inscribed on the World Heritage List. For the first time, the Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley appear on UNESCO’s official global

Iran Reopens Airspace

April 27, 2026 May 23, 2026
Mohammad
News
IKA, IKA airport, IKA Airport reopen, Imam Khomeini Airport, Tehran Airport

Iran Reopens Airspace for Domestic and International Flights Tehran’s primary air gateway has reopened. After a nearly two‑month suspension, Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) restarted international passenger flights on Saturday, April 25, 2026 – ending a pause of more than 50 days . The airport’s infrastructure and navigation systems are fully operational, and officials have

Temporary Internet Disruption in Iran – Important Notice

January 9, 2026 January 9, 2026
Mehrdad
News
Adventure Iran, Iran Intenet, Iran Internet cut off, Iran internet disruption, Iran Internet Shut down, Iran news

Dear Friends and Travelers, We would like to inform you that Iran is currently facing serious internet disruptions, and in many parts of the country the internet is very slow, unstable, or completely shut down. Due to this situation, we may temporarily have no access or very limited access to email, WhatsApp, and other online

Internet, SIM Card and Connectivity Guide for Travelers in Iran

January 8, 2026 January 27, 2026
Morteza
News, Travel Guide, Travel Tips
Adventure Iran, Adventure Travel, Iran tours, Iran Travel

Travelers visiting Iran often want to know how reliable connectivity and internet access are during their trip, especially given recent disruptions. After a significant nationwide outage in early January 2026, Iranian authorities have been gradually restoring internet services. Although full access to global connectivity is still variable in some regions, the network is increasingly stable and improving day by day an important consideration for planning your travel and staying connected abroad. Current Internet Situation in Iran In early January 2026, authorities imposed a near-total internet shutdown, reducing international connectivity to extremely low levels and affecting mobile data, voice calls, and messaging services. According to internet monitoring groups, connectivity dropped to around 1% of normal levels in many areas, and domestic networks continued to function at limited capacity. Recent statements from officials indicate that internet connectivity is being progressively restored, with partial access to international websites returning and mobile services improving. Plans are in place to return most services to normal levels over coming days, although clear timelines for complete global web access have not been confirmed. How to Stay Connected in Iran Buy a Local SIM Card Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is the most reliable way to stay connected in Iran. Major telecom providers such as MCI (Hamrahe Aval), Irancell, and Rightel offer prepaid SIMs that support voice, SMS, and mobile data. You can buy these SIM cards at airports, official stores, or dedicated kiosks after showing your passport. Mobile Data Plans Once you have a local SIM, you can choose from various data packages based on your travel duration. Plans range from daily to monthly internet packages with increasing data volumes. For travelers, a mid-range data bundle is usually sufficient for maps, messaging, ride-hailing apps, and social media. Internet Restrictions and Access Tools Iran has a

Travelers visiting Iran often want to know how reliable connectivity and internet access are during their trip, especially given recent disruptions. After a significant nationwide outage in early January 2026, Iranian authorities have been gradually restoring internet services. Although full access to global connectivity is still variable in some regions, the network is increasingly stable

Fajr International Festivals in Iran 2026: Film, Theater and Music Celebration Guide for Travelers

December 31, 2025 December 31, 2025
Morteza
Activities, Arts, News, Travel Guide, Travel Tips
Fajr Festival Iran, Fajr Film Festival, Fajr Music Festival, Fajr Theater Festival, Iran Cultural Festivals, Iran Culture and Art, Travel Iran 2026

Fajr International Festival Iran 2026; The Fajr International Festivals are among the most important cultural events in Iran, held every year around February to celebrate art, creativity and cultural identity. For travelers visiting Iran, these festivals offer a rare opportunity to experience authentic modern Iranian culture beyond history and heritage. This guide explains everything international visitors need to know about the Film, Theater and Music Fajr Festivals in 2026. What Are the Fajr Festivals in Iran? The Fajr International Festivals were established after the Islamic Revolution to celebrate cultural excellence in cinema, performing arts and music. Today, they are recognized as Iran’s biggest artistic celebrations, bringing together Iranian and international artists, critics, industry professionals and cultural travelers. Fajr International Film Festival The Fajr International Film Festival is the most famous cultural event in Iran. It features national and international film screenings, premieres, award competitions and special cinematic programs. It is a key event for filmmakers, cinema lovers and cultural travelers who want to understand Iran’s modern storytelling, social perspectives and artistic language. Screening of Iranian and international films Industry meetings and cinematic discussions Opportunities to experience Iranian cinema culture For travelers interested in culture and heritage experiences in Iran, you can explore our cultural journeys here: Iran Cultural and Adventure Tours. Fajr International Theater Festival The Fajr Theater Festival showcases diverse theatrical performances from across Iran and around the world. From contemporary plays to traditional Iranian theatrical styles, this festival reflects social narratives, historical storytelling and artistic creativity. It is an ideal experience for travelers interested in performing arts and cultural interpretation. Performances in major theaters across Tehran Traditional and modern productions Strong cultural and emotional expression Fajr International Music Festival The Fajr Music Festival is a powerful celebration of sound, rhythm and artistic diversity. It includes traditional Persian music,

Fajr International Festival Iran 2026; The Fajr International Festivals are among the most important cultural events in Iran, held every year around February to celebrate art, creativity and cultural identity. For travelers visiting Iran, these festivals offer a rare opportunity to experience authentic modern Iranian culture beyond history and heritage. This guide explains everything international

Tehran International Tourism Exhibition 2026: Everything You Need to Know

The 19th Tehran International Tourism Exhibition (TITE 2026) will be held from 23 to 26 Bahman 1404 (February 12–15, 2026) at the Tehran International Permanent Fairground. This annual event is known as the most influential and comprehensive showcase of Iran’s tourism industry, bringing together domestic and international stakeholders in travel, hospitality, culture, and adventure tourism. As one of the key platforms for introducing new travel trends, tourism technologies, regional attractions, and investment opportunities, TITE 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for travelers, agencies, and global operators to explore Iran’s rapidly growing tourism landscape. For visitors planning an immersive adventure experience in Iran, you can also explore our curated trips on Adventure Iran. What to Expect at TITE 2026 Comprehensive overview of Iran’s tourism ecosystem including eco-tourism, adventure tourism, cultural heritage, and local crafts. Showcase of regional travel authorities, tour operators, hotels, airlines, and innovative travel-tech companies. Networking opportunities with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and international tourism organizations. Workshops and panels focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and modern travel experiences. Updates on Iran’s tourism regulations, visa rules, and new destination developments. Venue and Date Information Date: 23–26 Bahman 1404 (February 12–15, 2026) Location: Tehran International Permanent Fairground City: Tehran, Iran For detailed visitor instructions, access maps, and facility information of the venue, refer to the official fairground website: Iran International Fairground. Why TITE Matters for Iran’s Tourism Industry The Tehran International Tourism Exhibition is regarded as the most strategic annual gathering in Iran’s tourism market. It brings visibility to new attractions, strengthens collaboration between international and Iranian operators, and presents Iran’s cultural and natural diversity to the global travel community. For adventure travelers seeking authentic experiences in Iran’s mountains, deserts, and remote villages, exhibitions like TITE help expand awareness and create stronger connections between local providers and global audiences. Adventure Tourism and New

The 19th Tehran International Tourism Exhibition (TITE 2026) will be held from 23 to 26 Bahman 1404 (February 12–15, 2026) at the Tehran International Permanent Fairground. This annual event is known as the most influential and comprehensive showcase of Iran’s tourism industry, bringing together domestic and international stakeholders in travel, hospitality, culture, and adventure tourism.

TasteAtlas Recognizes Four Iranian Rice Dishes Among the World’s Best

Iran’s culinary heritage has received international praise as four beloved Persian rice dishes have been ranked among the world’s top forty by the global food guide TasteAtlas. Kateh, Chelo, Chelow Kebab and Tahchin all earned places in the TasteAtlas list of the one hundred best rice dishes worldwide, reaffirming Iran’s reputation as a destination where

Kashan Joins UNESCO’s Creative Cities

November 1, 2025 August 26, 2026
Mehrdad
News, UNESCO Creative Cities
Creative cities of UNESCO, Kashan, kashan creative city, Kashan UNESCO, Kashan UNESCO City of Architecture, New UNESCO

Kashan Joins UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network in Architecture On World Cities Day 2025, during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Kashan was officially recognized as a Creative City of Architecture by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. This milestone marks one of the first times UNESCO has added architectures a distinct creative field in its network, placing Kashan alongside cities like Bistrita (Romania) and Lusail (Qatar) as pioneering “Creative Cities of Architecture.” This recognition adds to Kashan’s historic and evolving cultural legacy, affirming its significance not just as a city of the past, but as a living center for architectural creativity, heritage conservation, and sustainable cultural development. Why This Title Matters • New Creative Field Recognition Until now, UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network recognized seven fields (such as crafts, gastronomy, literature, music). The 2025 additions introduced architecture as a new creative dimension, broadening the mission and reach of the network. Kashan being among the first cities in this category underscores Iran’s contribution to architectural heritage. • Elevated Cultural Diplomacy With this status, Kashan can engage more actively in international cooperation, exchange programs, and joint architectural initiatives. It opens doors for funding, exhibitions, and partnerships that will help preserve and reinterpret its traditional architecture in contemporary contexts. • Revival & Innovation Combined Recognizing Kashan as a Creative City of Architecture encourages the blending of tradition and innovation: supporting the restoration of historic houses, promoting climate-sensitive design (e.g. windcatchers, courtyards), and inspiring new architecture that respects local identity. • Boost for Cultural & Heritage Tourism This title can draw attention to Kashan beyond the usual pilgrimage to its gardens and houses. It may inspire new architectural tours, workshops, and residencies centered on learning traditional building techniques. Kashan: A Living Architectural Heritage Kashan’s architecture has long been celebrated, but this UNESCO designation

Kashan Joins UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network in Architecture On World Cities Day 2025, during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Kashan was officially recognized as a Creative City of Architecture by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. This milestone marks one of the first times UNESCO has added architectures a distinct creative field in its network,