Yazd is a province located in the south of Tehran. The province is more than 620 kilometers away from Tehran, about six hours away by road. It is located in the center of Iran at an oasis where the Dasht-e Kavir Desert and the Dasht-e Lut Desert converge. Because of this, Yazd is considered by many as one of the most quintessential, beautiful desert cities in the world.
Once you get your Iran tourist visa and you’re planning your itinerary, consider putting Yazd on your list. Even if it is a bit far from Tehran, a side trip to this province will be worth your time, effort, and money since there are many exquisite and fascinating places you can see and visit here.
These include:
1. The Kharanaq
The Old Town of Yazd or Kharanaq is one of the oldest human settlements in the world. Because of this, the town was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list and it is the best place to learn more about the region’s rich and intriguing history.
The Kharanaq is the perfect example of a place where the new meets the old. Cars and bikes regularly traverse the area covered by narrow alleys and mud-brick walls which showcase the incredible combination of Persian and Islamic architecture style.
Other must-visit places in this ancient town include a Qajar-era mosque and the ancient aqueduct. The area is also home to picturesque ancient domes and minarets which you need to see as well.
2. The Amir Chakhmaq Complex
The Amir Chakhmaq complex is the architectural centerpiece of Yazd, literally. It is located in the heart of the city, in a square of the same name.
The three-story building is one of the biggest hosseiniehs or buildings used in the commemorative ceremonies for Imam Hossein’s death. The structure was said to be built some time during the 15th century and showcases exquisitely symmetrical iwans (vaulted hall or space) which are lighted and give off an amazing glow at night.
You will also find in the complex the Yazd Water Museum where you can learn about the different techniques of irrigation and water transport used for the past 4,000 years in Iran.
The complex also has a bazaar and several sweet and ice cream shops where you can get your fill of traditional Iranian beverages, cold, refreshing treats, and desserts.
3. Yazd Jameh Mosque
The Jameh Mosque of Yazd has the highest minarets in in Iran. Its mosaic tile work exemplifies the stunning Iranian-Islamic architecture of the 12th century. The grad iwan also showcases intricacies and inscriptions which are unrivaled by other mosques found in Iran.
Its façade is made up of delicate blue tiles. During sunset, prepare to be mesmerized by the wonderful play of colors. The sight is definitely a must-see and deserves to be captured in photos.
The Jameh Mosque is located near the Yazd traditional bazar. After visiting the mosque, you can go shopping in the bustling market and taste Yazdi cakes and sweets.
4. Bagh-E Dowlatabad
One of the oldest gardens in Iran, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the former home of the Persian regent Karim Khan Zand. It was built sometime in 1750.
The garden boasts a pavilion which has a splendid interior, elaborate latticework, and superb stained-glass windows. Additionally, you will also find a 33-meter central badgir or wind tower in the middle of the garden, the tallest one in Iran.
The Bagh-E Dowlatabad is also surrounded by evergreens, sour orange and pomegranate trees.
5. The Zoroastrian Ateshkadeh
About 3,500 years ago, Zoroastrianism was the main religion in Iran. Today, certain groups of locals still follow Zoroastrianism. Architectural remnants of this religion are also still alive in Yazd, the country’s center of Zoroastrianism.
The Ateshkadeh, or Fire Temple, is the most important vestige of Zoroastrianism in Iran. It contains a central fire that is said to have been burning since the 5th century A.D.
Other remnants of Zoroastrianism you can find in Yazd are the Towers of Silence which can be found on the Shahidan-e Ashraf Boulevard, and the Chak Chak, another important Zoroastrian pilgrimage site located in Ardakan.
Since Yazd is one of the Iranian cities steeped in history and culture, and it is teeming with natural scenery, make sure you book a room at one of the best Yazd hotels to truly enjoy your side trip here.
AUTHOR BIO
Raheleh Rasouli is a content creator at Snapptrip, a full-service travel booking company based in Tehran, Iran with a mission to empower customers’ choices in booking their whole travel online. Raheleh is a veteran journalist with an aptitude for precision and a passion for new media.
