Persian Food Iran has a great variety of food. If we want to write a list of Persian food, we would probably need several books. Of course, this food does not include sweets, bread, jams, pickles, and salads. Delicious traditional food throughout Iran has its own unique flavor in each region. If you ask foreign tourists about the features of Iran, most of them are totally satisfied with Persian cuisine, paying compliments to the exquisite Iranian dishes. Basically, Iranians have good taste. Each city has its own delicious specialty which they are proud of. Iranians are accomplished connoisseurs. When traveling, it is recommended to try that city's ‘special’ not only for it is a traditional meal but also because it represents the geographical, economic, and social conditions of that specific city. Iranian food is an interesting part of cultural life. The table is highly regarded as a symbol of respect as it is widely believed that food is God's blessing. Disrespect for food is equivalent to disrespecting God. In addition, the table is a valuable place where family members interact with each other during the day. Eating alone is somehow disrespectful to family members and signifies a broken family relationship. Iranians are capable cooks too. Their food diversity is countless where they use the most nutritious and healthiest ingredients available to prepare traditional food. In Iranian traditional medicine, which is part of the Iranian food culture, all edibles are divided into 4 categories in terms of human nature: dry, moist, cold, and hot. On the basis of this, Iranians believe they have to strike a balance between the consumption of a varied diet. Otherwise, their body and soul will become sick. Iranians eat with spoons and forks, rarely using knives. Some food is first wrapped in bread, the so-called “loghmeh”
Persian Food Iran has a great variety of food. If we want to write a list of Persian food, we would probably need several books. Of course, this food does not include sweets, bread, jams, pickles, and salads. Delicious traditional food throughout Iran has its own unique flavor in each region. If you ask foreign
Highlands of Talesh in Iran Talesh also spelled Talysh and Talish, is a region in northwest Iran, west of the Alborz Mountain range along the southwest of the Caspian Sea. The Talesh area is believed to be the place where the Aryan People first settled (They are Indo-European people who moved down from, what are today, the Russian steppes to Europe, Iran, Central Asia, and northern India in the second millennium BC). It is also said to be the birthplace of Zoroaster, the prophet of the ancient Persian religion, Zoroastrianism. Talesh has a sub-tropical climate with a lush green landscape. The region can be divided into two parts, the lowlands, and the highlands. The lowlands lie along the fertile coastal plain of the Caspian Sea and are abundant with rice paddies and orchards. The highlands constitute almost three-quarters of the area of Talesh and are covered by dense deciduous forests and meadows. The Talesh massif forms a 300 km long natural barrier against the drier climate to the south and west. Its highest peak, Bagharo Dagh, is at an altitude of 3,200 meters. The people of Talesh have their own distinct language and culture which have been preserved over the centuries by the remoteness of their land. A great number of them are pastoralists and semi-nomadic. They migrate to the highlands with their herds of sheep and goats every spring to pasture. They live in wooden houses or a kind of fixed tent, called Kapar, in their summer encampments. During this undiscovered superb trek, we will experience their genuine hospitality firsthand by staying and eating with them or camping next to them. Talesh has wonderful mountainous areas and its virgin and intact nature is a charming place for those eager to immerse themselves in it. Talesh is situated 140
Highlands of Talesh in Iran Talesh also spelled Talysh and Talish, is a region in northwest Iran, west of the Alborz Mountain range along the southwest of the Caspian Sea. The Talesh area is believed to be the place where the Aryan People first settled (They are Indo-European people who moved down from, what are
Iran Silk Road Iran was known as Persia during the Silk Road period. It was the main ring of the chain from East to West. It was strategically placed for the Silk Road trade with several routes passing through Iran’s ancient and beautiful country. Nowadays, Iran is no longer considered so famous for the Silk Road route compared to other central Asian countries. The Iranian tourism industry did not invest much time in marketing this interesting piece of history due to Iran being at the center of several difficult issues during the last 40 years. Despite this unfortunate drawback, Iran is firmly back on the map. Thanks to its attractiveness, and numerous ‘little-explored’ parts of this amazingly diverse country, there is so much to offer experienced travelers wishing to journey through Iran’s part of the Silk Road route which runs from China to Turkey. One of the main highlights of the Iran Silk Road is seeing the many historical sites alongside this route. In Iran’s Silk Road, there are plenty of ancient castles, caravanserais, citadels, and mosques that date back over a thousand years. There are a huge number of caravanserais, a lot of which have been renovated as boutique hotels. In addition, there are numerous oases in use in the Deserts of Iran on the original path of the Silk Road. These areas are still inhabited. The names of a couple of them are mentioned in the books of Alfons Gabriel and Sven Hedin who crossed the Iran desert about 100 years ago. In the Iran Deserts article, we also recommended adventurous individuals should visit Iran’s deserts to enjoy the countless attractions on offer. Iran has many caravanserais, many of which have been destroyed, and some of them still remain in their original form. Some of them have
Iran Silk Road Iran was known as Persia during the Silk Road period. It was the main ring of the chain from East to West. It was strategically placed for the Silk Road trade with several routes passing through Iran’s ancient and beautiful country. Nowadays, Iran is no longer considered so famous for the Silk
Train Traveling in Iran Iran Train Journeys is one of the special interest tours that attract many visitors. As you may know, there are numerous railroads in Iran in each corner of the country. The train traveling in Iran will allow you to enjoy both exciting adventures as well as amazing attractions across the country. The trains can take you everywhere you may wish to go. There are a lot of stations along the railway line, where you can either get on or off the train to visit the area. In addition, Iran has very high-quality daytime and night trains that cover most of the popular routes. There are seven main railroad tracks going in different directions, starting from Tehran. Other major cities also connect with each other via these railroad lines. The first Iran train track was from Tehran to Gorgan city going to the north and southeast of the Caspian Sea. This route is one of the most beautiful of Iran’s railroads, which passes through spectacular landscapes, canyons, the stunning Alborz Mountains, and the Hyrcanian Forests. The second route is from Tehran to Mashhad city in the northeast. As Mashhad is one of the principal cities of Iran, as well as a religious destination, many pilgrims and locals use this train track throughout the year. The third railroad track is to the northwest of Iran, between Tehran and Tabriz city, which conveniently connects to the Turkish railroad. The fourth route to the southwest runs from Tehran to Khorramshahr city. This train passes Ahvaz city, the capital of Khuzestan province, and is one of the earliest rail routes in Iran. This city was also home to one of the oldest and major oil reserves. To make this train journey even more interesting and appealing, it passes through
Train Traveling in Iran Iran Train Journeys is one of the special interest tours that attract many visitors. As you may know, there are numerous railroads in Iran in each corner of the country. The train traveling in Iran will allow you to enjoy both exciting adventures as well as amazing attractions across the country.
Tehran Mountain Biking Numerous mountains surround the area North of Tehran City with heights over 3,000 to 4,000 meters making perfect centers for selected adventure activities such as mountain biking. There are protected areas and national parks situated in the central part of the Alborz Mountain range. Varjin, Alborz-e Markazi protected areas, and Lar National Park are located northeast of Tehran and are just perfect for mountain biking. So far, the majority of Iran’s visitors have not received sufficient information about these regions. They travel to Iran believing they must go far afield for mountain biking, while near Tehran, in the heart of central Alborz, there are many areas for all types of mountain biking. There are various options for both moderate riders and advanced downhill bikers. There are also a number of districts for cycling in the northeast of Tehran. The biking terrains also vary depending on the region. They are a combination of asphalt, dirt, single-track, and age-old mule routes. In spring, the villages in Central Alborz are particularly picturesque, not only are they surrounded by different species of plants and flowers, but it is also interesting to observe the water level rising in the rivers from the melting snow. Cycling in Lavasanat countryside - Northern Tehran is one of the moderate mountain biking tours we offer in the spring as well as the Single-Track MTB in northern Tehran in the Alborz Mountains. During the summer, when most of the regions have hot temperatures, we can recommend a few trails in high altitudes to avail of the best weather for mountain biking. As mentioned, there are some mountains above 3,000 m in northern Tehran, which are ideal for this sport. Mountain Biking alongside Shemshak ski resort, a moderate short mountain biking tour in the high altitude of central
Tehran Mountain Biking Numerous mountains surround the area North of Tehran City with heights over 3,000 to 4,000 meters making perfect centers for selected adventure activities such as mountain biking. There are protected areas and national parks situated in the central part of the Alborz Mountain range. Varjin, Alborz-e Markazi protected areas, and Lar National
Damavand Acclimatisation Programme Due to its altitude of 5,610m, one needs to acclimatize before ascending Damavand. One’s experience and fitness are alas not enough and at Adventure Iran we have designed the Damavand Acclimatisation Programme to allow for an enjoyable ascent. Thus, in order to avoid any difficulties or headaches due to altitude sickness, we recommend that before hiking directly up to the altitude of 4,000m and then ascending the peak (5,610m): 1. on the first day, you sleep at an altitude of around 2,000-3,000m; and 2. on the second day, ascend to the altitude of approx. 3,000-4,000m and then descend and again sleep at the altitude of 2,000-3,000m to physically and mentally prepare yourself. https://www.adventureiran.com/mount-damavand/
Damavand Acclimatisation Programme Due to its altitude of 5,610m, one needs to acclimatize before ascending Damavand. One’s experience and fitness are alas not enough and at Adventure Iran we have designed the Damavand Acclimatisation Programme to allow for an enjoyable ascent. Thus, in order to avoid any difficulties or headaches due to altitude sickness, we
Persian Gulf Islands Iran is not a destination for beach holidays, instead, it is a perfect destination for those who would like to experience something quite unrivaled. In the past, nobody thought the Iranian Islands, such as the Persian Gulf islands, perhaps unheard of by many people, would be popular for international travelers. This was due to the lack of proper marketing and insufficient information in the international press and media. Travelers who had already visited our islands managed to spread the news by word of mouth to friends about the untravelled and unspoiled routes in Iran creating quite an interest. These islands are special destinations during late autumn, winter, and early spring. Nowadays the Persian Gulf Islands are far better known than previously, where most of the local houses and guest houses are full during the winter. It is worth noting that a number of travelers visiting these islands are foreigners. There are numerous islands throughout the Persian Gulf. Three of these, Qeshm, Hormuz, and Hengam- located south of Bandar Abbas city- are the most popular and fairly close to each other. The main and the biggest one is Qeshm which resembles the shape of a dolphin. It is famous for its mango forests, an amazing salt cave, a spectacular canyon, and diving centers. There is also a Portuguese castle in the town. Hormuz Island is renowned for its glorious beaches. There are strikingly rugged rocks along the coastline which make this island so unique and distinctive. It is also called Colorful Island, due to the various colors of the soil. This exquisite island is ideal for those who enjoy countless types of adventure activities, although trekking, boating, and mountain biking are the most popular activities pursued. https://www.adventureiran.com/hormuz-island/ Hormuz Islan Hengam Island is another interesting and picturesque island
Persian Gulf Islands Iran is not a destination for beach holidays, instead, it is a perfect destination for those who would like to experience something quite unrivaled. In the past, nobody thought the Iranian Islands, such as the Persian Gulf islands, perhaps unheard of by many people, would be popular for international travelers. This was
Iran Ski Touring Iran, with its numerous high peaks in the Alborz and Zagros mountains, is absolutely the loneliest destination for skiing and Ski touring in the Middle East. Having a high snowfall starting from November till June in the towering mountains on the one hand, and having 150 mountains above 4,000 m on the other, makes Iran an ideal destination for Ski Touring. There are many pistes above 2,500 m level and the amount of snow is also perfect for winter activities. Adventure Iran operates many ski touring trips in Alborz and Zagros mountains in Iran. Depending on your ski level and time of travel, we advise different locations and paths for professional and amateur skiers. One of the most popular ski touring adventures which has attracted many ski enthusiasts is Mount Damavand (5,610m), the highest mountain in Iran and the Middle East. The Mount Damavand Ski Touring in Asia’s highest volcano mountain tour is a one-week trip that Adventure Iran conducts in the spring. We also combine Damavand Ski Touring with Dobarar mountain range, which makes the best combination for powder skiing, leisure trips, views of other mountains and Mount Damavand, and acclimatization at the summit. Ski Touring in MT Damavand and Dobarar Mountain chains is a ten-day trip covering both these mountains. Damavand is only 100 km away from the capital and is within easy reach of the base of Damavand where you can start your ski tour. The Alam Kuh Mountain is the second mountain in Iran in terms of altitude at 4,850 m above sea level. It is also one of the most challenging peaks in Iran. Sometimes, you can ski in Alam Kuh Mountain till June, depending on the snowfall during the year. Mount Alam Kuh Ski Touring is a one-week tour
Iran Ski Touring Iran, with its numerous high peaks in the Alborz and Zagros mountains, is absolutely the loneliest destination for skiing and Ski touring in the Middle East. Having a high snowfall starting from November till June in the towering mountains on the one hand, and having 150 mountains above 4,000 m on the
Ranginak, Iranian Dessert Recipe Ranginak is an Iranian delicious dessert originally from the southern parts of the country, mainly Fars, Khuzestan, Hormozgan, and Bushehr. Persian desserts, just like Persian food, are healthy and nutritious. Although Ranginak is easy to make, it is so nutritious that makes you feel full long after having it. The main ingredients for this luscious dessert include dates, flour, and cinnamon. Here, you will learn how to make Ranginak- this Iranainan mouthwatering dessert- recipe. Ingredients: 500g of dates 3 or 4 tablespoons of flour 2 teaspoons of cinnamon or more according to taste A little powdered coconut to decorate 3 or 4 teaspoons of vegetable oil How to make delicious Iranian dessert of Ranginak: First of all, Place the dates in a dish having cut them in half, and remove the nut. After that, very gently, brown the flour in a dry pan, stirring continually. When the flour color changes, add the oil and cinnamon. Mix well to obtain a smooth paste (a little like a pancake paste). Sprinkle with coconut powder and some cinnamon. Then, pour the mixture over the dates and leave to sit for a minimum of 2 hours. It is generally served at the end of the meal with tea or coffee. *Notes: You can use butter instead of oil for a better flavor if you wish. You can also garnish the Rangnak dessert with pistachio or walnut powder according to your taste. You can fry the walnut kernel gently on low heat until it is toasted, then use it. https://www.adventureiran.com/top-ten-persian-cookbooks/ https://www.adventureiran.com/iran-cooking-tour-persian-cuisine/
Ranginak, Iranian Dessert Recipe Ranginak is an Iranian delicious dessert originally from the southern parts of the country, mainly Fars, Khuzestan, Hormozgan, and Bushehr. Persian desserts, just like Persian food, are healthy and nutritious. Although Ranginak is easy to make, it is so nutritious that makes you feel full long after having it. The main
Desert 4x4 Safari in Iran Desert 4x4 Safari in Iran is one of the main activities that most travelers would like to experience on their journey to Iran. As you may know, Iran has two deserts; Dasht-e Kavir and Lut deserts. They are both perfect for a 4x4 safari for all adventurous travelers in search of a new and remarkable experience. Dasht-e Lut lands are quite unusual in comparison with the other deserts of Iran, having eye-catching and unique landscapes. Maranjab, Rig-e Jen, Koreh Gaaz, and Mesr desert make up the Dasht-e Kavir desert all of which are ideal for off-road 4x4 safaris. Maranjab desert is close to Kashan city, where there is a historical caravanserai which is well worth visiting. This desert is unrivaled for a multi-day desert trip for those who would like to have a short and cost-effective desert journey in Iran. Rig-e Jen, in the central desert of Iran, is one of the most adventurous. It is located in the heart of the Dasht-e Kavir desert. Rig-e Jen is perfect for those travelers who would like to have a longer and more complete 4x4 safari as it is not easily accessible. It is also more challenging compared to the other deserts in the area. There are two ways for starting the journey. Anarak is the most accessible town in the Rig-e Jen desert, 222 km from the east of Esfahan. The second way is from Khur which is a town in the heart of Dasht-e Kavir. The least popular deserts for safaris in Iran are the Koreh Gaz and Mesr deserts. Koreh Gaz is also known as Mohammad Abad Koreh Gaz; it is the last oasis in the desert where a couple of people still live. In this region, there is underground water, a few
Desert 4×4 Safari in Iran Desert 4×4 Safari in Iran is one of the main activities that most travelers would like to experience on their journey to Iran. As you may know, Iran has two deserts; Dasht-e Kavir and Lut deserts. They are both perfect for a 4×4 safari for all adventurous travelers in search
