Independent tourism and recreation in Kermanshah Historical information about the city of Kermanshah 1. Ancien...
1. Ancient roots and origins
Kermanshah is a city in western Iran, in a region that has long been a strategic crossroads between Mesopotamia and central Iran.
Archaeological finds indicate that the territory was inhabited in the III-II millennium BC.
The region was part of the Median Kingdom, later the Achaemenid Empire (VI-IV centuries BC).
The name "Kermanshah" originated much later, under the Sassanid Empire, and literally means "Kingdom of Kerman" or "Shah of Kerman".
2. The Sassanid period (224–651)
Kermanshah gained special importance during the Sassanid period:
It became an important commercial and administrative center on the way to Mesopotamia.
There were commercial caravanserai and military garrisons guarding the western borders of the empire.
The Sassanid era includes the famous bas-reliefs in Takht-e Suleiman and Bisutun, near Kermanshah - evidence of religious and cultural life.
Sassanid cultural heritage
Takht-e Bostan is a complex of bas-reliefs and palaces, which depicts hunting scenes, religious rituals and victories of the shahs.
It is one of the most important Sassanid archaeological sites in Iran.
3. Middle Ages
After the conquest of Iran by the Arabs (VII century), Kermanshah was on the path of Islamic expansion.
The city became part of the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphate, retaining important trade and craft importance.
During this period, weaving and carpetmaking, the production of ceramics and textiles developed.
In the XII-XIV centuries, the region was often raided by Turkic and Mongolian tribes, but the city retained its cultural significance.
4. The Safavid Age (1501–1736)
Kermanshah became part of the Safavid Empire, becoming an important military and administrative base in the west.
Mosques, madrassas and caravanserai were built here.
Safavid rulers fortified the city to control the routes to Mesopotamia and resist the Ottomans.
5. The Ottoman Wars and the Strategic Role
From the XVI century to the XIX century, the city repeatedly changed control between the Ottoman Empire and Iran.
Kermanshah was a key point in the wars for Western territories.
The city maintained its status as a cultural center despite constant military conflicts.
6. Modernity and modernity
In the XIX-XX centuries, the city became part of modern Iran.
Industry, transport (railways and highways) and education developed.
In the XX century Kermanshah became the administrative center of the province of the same name, with a population of more than 800 thousand people.
Cultural Importance Today
Kermanshah is the center of Kurdish culture and crafts: carpets, weaving, wood carving, pottery.
The city has many mosques, madrasahs, bazaars and Sassanid monuments, making it popular for tourists interested in the history and culture of Iran.
Historical sights
Takht-e Bostan is a famous Sassanid complex with bas-reliefs and palaces depicting hunting scenes, victories of the Shahs and religious rites. This place attracts lovers of history and archaeology.
Bisitun is a stone relief of King Darius I, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.
The mosques and madrasahs of Kermanshah are vivid examples of Islamic architecture and decorative arts, ideal for photo shoots and cultural studies.
Culture and crafts
The city is known for Kurdish crafts: carpets, pottery, wood carving.
Tourists can visit local bazaars selling traditional souvenirs, spices, barberry, saffron and rose water.
It hosts cultural festivals and exhibitions dedicated to music, dance and traditional crafts.
Nature and active recreation
In the vicinity of Kermanshah, picturesque mountain landscapes open, ideal for hiking, trekking and photo tours.
Parks and green areas of the city are a great place for leisurely walks, picnics and evening rest.
Local cuisine
Kermanshah is famous for its rich Kurdish cuisine:
traditional dishes with lamb, meat and vegetables,
sweets, such as "نان برنجي" and "»اήي",
local drinks and herbal teas.
Many cozy restaurants and cafes offer authentic dishes and drinks.
Tourism and shopping
Kermanshah bazaars are the heart of city life, where you can buy souvenirs, spices, carpets and products of folk craftsmen.
Modern shopping centers offer comfortable shopping, cinemas and recreation areas.
Comfort and good service
Middle segment
Boutique and atmospheric hotels
For those who prefer an unusual or more authentic style of living:
Economy class and budget options
If you are traveling on a budget, Kermanshah has many affordable hotels and guesthouses:
Jamshid Hotel is an inexpensive hotel, popular among independent travelers.
هتل سنتي ريوار is a budget option with basic conditions, suitable for short overnight stays.
Apart from these hotels, the city has many simple guesthouses and family mini-hotels, especially in the central bazaar area and around parks – here for a small budget you can find a room from $ 6 to $ 25 per night if you choose simple places or family guesthouses (guest rooms are often comparable to hostels).
In Kermanshah, real hostels are rare, but directly inexpensive rooms and guest houses at locals are a common budget option, especially for backend travelers.
Other ways of living
Rental of apartments / apartments
In the city you can find apartments and apartments for short-term rent, especially convenient for family or a group of friends. They are usually submitted by local services or owners directly through ads.
Guesthouses and family rooms
Many neighborhoods have family homes and small guesthouses with basic amenities that are often even cheaper than standard budget hotels. Such seats are usually booked on site or through local agents.
1. Takht-e Bostan
Description: Sassanid complex with magnificent bas-reliefs and hunting scenes of the Shahs. There are also artificial ponds and gardens that create a unique atmosphere of ancient Iran.
Transport: approximately 7 km from the city center, easy to reach by taxi, local buses or rented car. Parking is available on site.
Recommendations: it is better to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat in the summer.
2. Bisotun (Bisotun)
Description: Stone relief of Darius I, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An impressive historical monument with ancient inscriptions and bas-reliefs that date back to the V century BC.
Transport: located about 30 km northeast of Kermanshah. You can get there by taxi or rented car; excursions from the city are organized.
3. Kermanshah Museums
Museum of Archaeology - contains finds from the territory of Kermanshah, including artifacts of the Sassanid era.
The Museum of Carpets and Crafts is an exhibition of traditional carpets, textiles and Kurdish crafts.
Transport: In the city centre, most museums are accessible on foot or by short taxi ride.
4. Mosques and religious buildings
Fatemi Mosque – XVIII century, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
Golestan Mosque is another historical landmark.
Transport: Central areas of the city, accessible on foot or by taxi.
5. Kermanshah Bazaars
Description: Traditional Eastern markets, where spices, carpets, handicrafts, souvenirs are sold.
Transport: Most of the bazaars are located in the city center, convenient to get on foot or by taxi.
6. Parks and green spaces
Kouhsangi Park is a picturesque mountainous area with walking trails and observation decks.
Vakilabad Park is a city park with a lake, picnic areas and a playground.
Transport: parks are located on the outskirts of the city, it is better to get by taxi or rented car.
Transport accessibility of attractions
Taxis: the main way of transportation in Kermanshah, convenient for tourists, short and long trips.
Public buses: run on the main streets of the city, a cheap option, but can be uncomfortable for tourists who do not speak Persian.
Renting a car: the best way to visit attractions outside the city (Taht-e Bostan, Bisutun).
Walking: The city centre and historic areas are easy to see on foot, especially bazaars and museums.
1. Culture and craft festivals
Kermanshah is known for Kurdish crafts: carpets, pottery, wood carving.
During the year, exhibitions and fairs are held, where tourists can see master classes in weaving, carpet weaving and pottery.
2. Musical and theatrical events
Summer and Autumn: Concerts of traditional and modern music in the city's theaters.
Folklore Kurdish dances and musical performances are available to tourists at cultural venues.
3. Religious and national holidays
Nowruz (Persian New Year, March 20-21):
Celebrations across the country, including Kermanshah.
Decorated streets, traditional dishes, family gatherings.
The month of Ramadan:
A special atmosphere in the evening with festive markets and nightly events.
Ashura and Moharram:
Religious processions and traditional ceremonies where you can observe the local culture, but tourists need to respect the traditions.
4. Local city holidays
Local festivals are often dedicated to the culture and history of the region, held in summer and autumn.
For example, festivals of kitchen traditions and spices, where you can try saffron, barberry, local sweets.
Spring (March-May)
Air temperature: +15 ... +25 ° C, during the day it is comfortable for walking, at night it is cooler (+8 ... +12 ° C).
Water temperature: small rivers and artificial lakes - about +12. +16°C, still cool for swimming.
Features: the city and surroundings are covered with greenery, gardens and parks bloom.
Recommendations: a great time for excursions, visits to bazaars and historical monuments.
Summer (June-August)
Air temperature: +30 ... +38 ° C, sharp fluctuations are possible on hot days.
Water temperature: in rivers and reservoirs +20 +25°C - you can swim in specially equipped areas.
Features: hot, especially in July, so active excursions are better in the morning or evening.
Recommendations: for tourists who like the sun and open spaces, or to visit mountainous areas where it is cooler.
Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature: +15...+28°C, mild and comfortable weather, especially in September and October.
Water temperature: +15... +20°C, swimming is not so popular, but the rivers are beautiful for walking and photo shoots.
Features: golden foliage, pleasant walks, season of cultural and gastronomic festivals.
Recommendations: a great time for tourism and photos, a combination of a comfortable climate and cultural events.
Winter (December-February)
Air temperature: +5... +12°C during the day, at night can drop to 0...-3°C, especially in the mountains.
Water temperature: +5... +10°C - swimming is not relevant.
Features: mild climate for city walks and museums, possible snow in the surrounding mountains.
Recommendations: convenient time for cultural tourism and visiting museums, fewer tourists, low prices for accommodation.
Language of communication
Main language: Persian (Farsi).
Local dialects: Kurdish is often spoken in the Kermanshah region, but in touristic places it is almost always possible to communicate in Farsi.
English: Not widely spoken. In hotels, museums and tourist centers, staff usually understand basic English, but in public places it is recommended to have basic phrases in Farsi.
Tip to the tourist: it is useful to know 5-10 key phrases in Farsi for greeting, farewell, gratitude and shopping. This will inspire respect from locals and make communication easier.
Dress code and tradition
For women:
Be sure to cover your hair with a scarf (scarf or hijab) in public places.
Clothing should be loose, covering hands and feet (long sleeves, long skirts or trousers).
For men:
It is advisable to wear long trousers and sleeve T-shirts, especially in religious places.
Shorts and open T-shirts may not be appropriate in mosques and religious sites.
In public places:
Behave respectfully in places of worship, such as mosques or historical mausoleums.
Photography is allowed, but some religious places may have restrictions.
Culture and religion
Kermanshah is a predominantly Shia city, so religious traditions are important.
Prayer time: Tourists should be aware that some shops and restaurants may be closed for a short period of time.
It is forbidden to drink alcohol in public places. Alcohol is only available to foreign nationals in private areas (rarely).
Laws and regulations
Documents: Always carry a passport or a copy with a visa.
Photo of people: You need to ask permission, especially women.
Public Behavior: Open displays of intimacy (kissing, hugging) on the street are inappropriate.
Drugs: Strictly prohibited, with severe penalties for use or possession.
Money and shopping: bargaining in bazaars is allowed and even welcome, but always keep a respectful tone.
Greetings and courtesy
Salam - Hello there.
Khodā hafez - Goodbye
Sobh bekheyr - Good morning
Good evening - Asr bekheyr - Good evening
Shab bekheyr - Good night
لاх - Lotfan - Please (in requests)
ممنون / مرسي - Mamnoon / Mersi - Thank you
Please (in response to "thank you")
Bebakhshid - Excuse me / excuse me / can I talk to you?
Communication and acquaintance
حال شما جور استة - Hāl-e shomā chetor ast? - How are you?
عوبم• منون - Khubam, mamnoon - OK, thank you
Esm-e shomā chist? - What's your name?
اسم من ... است - Esm-e man ... ast - My name is ...
Khosh vaghtam - Nice to meet you
Taxis and transport
Tāksi - Taxi
مي رويد به ... به - Miravid be...? - Are you going to...?
لطا, به ... - Lotfan be ... - Please before ... (e.g. to the hotel or attractions)
Injā negah dārid - Stop here
Cheghadr mishavad? - How much is it?
Example of dialogue:
Lotfan be Bāzār-e Kermanshah - Please visit Kermanshah Bazaar
Bāshe - Okay.
Hotel and accommodation
هتل - Hotel - Hotel
ررو دارم - Rezerv dāram - I have reservation
اتاق - Otāgh - Number
لقد - Kolid - Key
اقنترنت داردة - Internet dārad? - Is there internet?
Sobhāneh shāmel ast? - Breakfast included?
Cafes and restaurants
Menu lotfan - Menu, please
Correctly, Ghazā - Food.
Chay - Tea
Bedoon goosht - Without Meat
صورتحساب لحفا С - Surathesāb lotfan - Account, please
Kheili khoshmaze ast - Very delicious
Shopping and bazaar
- Gheymat? - Price?
Дорران است - Gerān ast - Dear
ارقان تر داريددة - Arzāntar dārid? - Is it cheaper?
تعفف داردة - Takhfif dārad? - Any discount?
مي عرم - Mikharam - I take
Example of dialogue:
Kheili geran ast - very expensive
Takhfif midahid? - Will you make a discount?
Religious places
حرم - Haram - Shrine
)ادر - Chādor - Chador (for women)
Shoes (usually removed at the entrance to the mosque)
اقن جا مجاق استة - Injā mojāz ast? - Is this allowed?
Emergency situations
- Komak! - Help me!
ليس - Polis - Police
بمارستان - Bimārestān - Hospital
Gom shode-am - I'm lost
Nemi-fahmam - I don't understand
Useful short phrases
Moshkeli nist - No problem
Yek lahze - One minute
باشه - Bāshe - Good.
Nemi-khāham - I don't want to
Food and food
1. Barbaris (قرش) - Zereshk)
Dried sweet and sour berries are widely used in local cuisine, especially in pilaf.
Good for digestion and rich in antioxidants.
Often sold in vacuum packages or in glass jars - convenient to drive home.
2. Pistachios and almonds
The region is known for high quality nuts.
You can find both raw and roasted varieties.
A great gift and a good snack.
3. saffron
Although major saffron producers are based in Khorasan, Kermanshah also sells quality saffron of local Iranian origin.
It is used for cooking and traditional medicine.
4. Honey and herbal syrups
Mountain honey, natural and without sugar.
Rose syrups, barberry, dates.
Useful for immunity and digestion.
Medicinal and natural remedies
1. Pink Water (Golab - оваяلاب)
It is used for skin, digestion, calming the nerves.
You can bring it in glass bottles – a popular souvenir.
2. Oils and extracts
Black cumin oil - support of immunity, skin and hair care.
Almond and sesame oil are cosmetic and nutritional properties.
3. Grass fees
Traditional medicine pharmacies (Attari) sell fees for:
digestion,
sleep,
strengthening immunity.
It is important for tourists to clarify the instructions and dosage.
Souvenirs and gifts
1. Carpets and carpets
Wall carpets, mini-carpets, prayer mats.
Handmade and traditional design make them a valuable gift.
2. Jewelry and stones
Turquoise, agate, carnelian, often set in silver.
Amulets and jewelry with calligraphy are popular.
3. Calligraphy and art
Panel with verses of the Quran, calligraphic paintings, wood carvings.
Perfectly suited as decorative souvenirs.
4. Herbal cosmetics
Creams with rose and saffron, soap made of natural ingredients, henna for temporary hair coloring.
5. Religious souvenirs
Beads (Tasbih), aromatic oils, miniatures of holy places.
Safety of rest
Crime: Kermanshah is considered a relatively safe city for tourists. Street crime is low, but petty thefts are possible in bazaars and crowded transport.
Traffic in the city is intense, especially at intersections; it is recommended to use an official taxi or rented car.
Medical care: The city has public and private hospitals with modern facilities.
Tip: Always carry a copy of your passport and hotel address.
Documents required
Passport – valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
Tourist visa – most foreign nationals are required to obtain a visa in advance or via e-visa.
Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation - it is desirable to have when crossing the border.
Health insurance is mandatory for a visa and recommended for travel, covering medical care, hospitalization and repatriation.
Emergency services phones
Police: 110
Ambulance: 115
Fire service: 125
Tourist information: +98 83 3833 9999 (example contact for information in Kermanshah)
Tip: Keep these numbers on your phone and on paper in case of an emergency.
Mobile operators and the Internet
Irancell - good signal, 4G, available all over the city.
Hamrah-e Aval (MCI) is a stable internet connection.
RighTel is cheaper, but coverage is limited.
Tip: SIM cards with Internet and minutes are sold at the airport, convenient for tourists.
Period of stay without departure
A tourist visa usually allows accommodation up to 30 days.
Some countries have the option of 15, 30 or 90 days depending on citizenship.
Extension is possible through local immigration authorities, but it is easier to plan departure and re-entry on a long journey.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
