Travel to Kermanshah city in Iran will take you through a tunnel of steep historical ups and downs, allowing you to witness up close the historical attractions left behind by those who lived in this land during different historical periods. It may be hard to believe, but Kermanshah is among the earliest human settlements and had its prosperity and significance during the Sasanian era. However, before embarking on a journey to any city, it is necessary to have information about that city so that you can plan your trip accordingly. That’s why in this article from Eligasht, we intend to provide you with a comprehensive guide to traveling to Kermanshah and discuss all the things you need to know about traveling to Kermanshah.
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Kermanshah’s Geographical Location
Kermanshah is the ninth most populous city in Iran, with a population of approximately 940,000 according to the census conducted in 2016. This Kurdish-inhabited city is one of the most important cities in western Iran, and geographically, it is separated from its neighboring regions by the Zagros mountain range. The land distance from Kermanshah to Tehran via the Saveh road is about 590 kilometers.
Kermanshah’s Climate
Considering its geographical location, Kermanshah has a cool and moderate climate, making it one of the best choices for travel during the summer season. If you plan to organize your trip to Kermanshah, we recommend considering early June to early September as the best time to visit this city. However, if you want to travel to Kermanshah in winter, you should be aware that it experiences harsh cold weather, and you must make necessary preparations for a relatively challenging trip.
A Brief History of Kermanshah
according to historical documents and evidence, this city was the first human habitat and one of the important population centers in the central Zagros region. This land, with the discovery of numerous ancient artifacts in various archaeological periods from the Stone Age to prehistoric and even post-historic civilizations, there were great empires in this area, which is why we can say that this city has a rich ancient history.
It might interest you to know that in ancient times, the inhabitants of this region used to pronounce the name of the city as “Kermashan.” However, this city has had different names throughout history, and before Islam, its name was Kamabadan.
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Staying in Kermanshah- Travel to Kermanshah
For accommodation in Kermanshah, there are various options such as hotels, traditional houses, and eco-lodges that you can use. In the following, in the travel guide to Kermanshah, we will mention some good options for accommodation in the city when choosing your place of stay, be sure to consider the distance of the hotel from the city center, as it has a significant impact on your travel expenses and time spent on sightseeing in the city.
Parsian Hotel
Before you travel to Kermanshah, you should know that one of the recommended hotels in this city is Parsian, located in a commercial-administrative center. This hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in the west and you can choose it for a good and excellent stay. It is worth mentioning that this hotel is relatively close to historical attractions such as Taq-e Bostan.
Address: Kermanshah, Shahid Keshvari Boulevard, next to Velayat Bridg
Local dishes of Kermanshah
When the name Kermanshah is mentioned, we all think of its historical attractions such as Taq-e Bostan and Bisotun Inscription. However, this city also has delicious traditional dishes that can satisfy any traveler’s palate. In the following, we will mention some famous dishes of the city that you can try during your travel to Kermanshah.
Khalal Kermanshahi Stew
Khalal Kermanshahi stew is one of the most famous dishes of this city and has a unique taste.
Dastpich Kermanshahi
Another traditional and popular dish in Kermanshah is Dastpich. Dastpich is a dish made from ground meat, grape leaves, crushed walnuts, raisins, tomato paste, and onions.
Dande Kebab Kermanshahi
Kebabs are always a popular choice among Iranians, but the way kebabs are prepared in Kermanshah is unique and unlike any other place.
Kuku-e Pagazeh
it is another traditional dish of Kermanshah. A fragrant herb called Pagazeh grows in the Kermanshah region, and a delicious Kuku (omelet-like dish) is prepared using this aromatic herb. Additionally, Pagazeh greens are used to make Borani and Sabzi Polo, but Kuku-e Kermanshahi has gained great fame. In this Kuku, they use eggs, yogurt, turmeric, salt, pepper, grated onions, and chopped Pagazeh.
Note: Some ingredients and dishes might have specific cultural or regional variations, so it’s always best to consult local sources or recipes for precise details.
Tourist Attractions in Kermanshah City
There are nearly 3,000 historical sites in Kermanshah, out of which around 716 have been registered nationally and some have even been recognized internationally. In this travel guide to Kermanshah, we intend to talk about the tourist attractions in this city.
Taq-e Bostan
One of the most famous tourist attractions that you can visit in your travel to Kermanshah, which has also been registered internationally, is Taq-e Bostan. It is a collection of bas-reliefs and rock carvings that date back to the Sassanian period and are located in the northwest of Kermanshah. This complex has significant artistic and historical value.
Takieh Moaven ol-Molk
Takieh Moaven ol-Molk, built 114 years ago in Kermanshah, was later constructed by Hassan Khan Moein ol-Molk. This historical complex consists of three main sections: Hosseiniyeh, Zainabiyeh, and Abbasiyeh, adorned with beautiful tile works that are renowned worldwide.
Bisotun
A historical complex located about 30 kilometers northeast of Kermanshah, Bisotun holds great historical significance. As mentioned at the beginning of the travel guide to Kermanshah, this area has been a human settlement since ancient times. Therefore, various kings throughout history have paid great attention to this region, and Bisotun Mountain is one of the most important sites due to its geographical and climatic reasons, where each era’s king has left a memorial on this mountain for future generations.
Kermanshah’s Tombs
Ishaq Vand
Ishaq Vand’s tombs are generally composed of three tombs located 25 kilometers southwest of Harsin County. They are situated in rocks that are also found northeast of Dehno village. These tombs are among the oldest rock tombs that have survived from the time of the Medes in the land of Pars.
Davoud’s Tomb
Another tomb called Davoud is located about 3 kilometers southeast of Sarpol-e Zahab. Its history dates back to the time of the Medes or Achaemenids. These tombs have been carved into large rocky cliffs and are also elevated from the ground.
Sahneh Tomb
In the city of Sahneh, there is a tomb called Sahneh, which is also carved on the right side of the Daryan River in Kermanshah. The locals say that this tomb is the burial place of famous individuals named Kikavous, Farhad the Sculptor, and Shirin and Farhad.
Anahita Temple
One of the largest stone structures in Iran is a temple called Anahita, located in the city of Kangavar, Kermanshah. Anahita, who was considered a symbol of the water goddess and guardian, was highly valued and sacred among the Iranians in the past. This temple is an ancient place of worship that also employed the technique of stilt-building in its construction. Its origins date back to the Parthian and Sassanian periods. Be sure to visit the Anahita temple during your travel to Kermanshah.
Tagh-e Gara
On the route from Kermanshah to Sarpol-e Zahab, there is an archway called Tagh-e Gara or Tagh-e Shirin. It has an Ivan-like space and is entirely constructed from stone blocks. The inner walls of this archway are adorned with geometric carvings. There is no specific information available about the construction time and age of this structure, but some attribute its construction to the Parthians or Sassanians.
Mountain(koohestan) Park
In the north of Kermanshah, near the historical site of Taq-e Bostan, there is a mountain park that is considered one of the largest and most beautiful tourist parks in Kermanshah. This park has a very attractive environment, and you can choose it for spending an afternoon or even a whole day.
Gouri Qaleh Cave
In addition to its many historical attractions, Kermanshah also has unique natural attractions, one of which is Gouri Qaleh Cave. This cave is located 87 kilometers from the city of Kermanshah, in the Shahou Mountain range. It should be noted that this cave is about 500 meters long and consists of two interconnected halls and corridors. Inside this cave, the most beautiful cave formations have been discovered, making it a tourist attraction.
Paraw Cave
Paraw Cave is located 12 kilometers northeast of Kermanshah, nestled between the Taq-e Bostan and Bisotun mountains, with an approximate height of 3,357 meters. This cave is one of the most dangerous water caves, with the flowing water resulting from the melting of underground glaciers. Discovered about 40 years ago, this cave has been registered as a national natural heritage site.
Sarab-e Niloufar
There is a lake called Sarab-e Niloufar located 20 kilometers northwest of the city of Kermanshah, known as a habitat for bluewater lilies. The best time to visit this tourist attraction is during the warm seasons. It is worth mentioning that Sarab-e Niloufar is considered one of the registered national natural sites in the country.
Sarab-e Sahneh
In the northern part of Kermanshah, there is a region called Sarab-e Sahneh, which has a very pleasant climate and offers beautiful natural landscapes. In this area, there are four springs, located in the northern part of Darband, which used to form a small waterfall. However, currently, there is no trace of this waterfall, and it is known as the Dry Waterfall. The waters of the four springs converge after a distance of about 500 meters and form the main waterfall.
Hashilan Wetland
Another natural attraction in the city of Kermanshah is Hashilan Wetland, located 30 kilometers northwest of the city. Hashilan Wetland is composed of two parts: “Hashi,” meaning snake in Kurdish, and “Lan,” meaning home, indicating the presence of snakes, especially blue snakes, in this area.
Shopping Centers in Kermanshah
Kermanshah Bazaar
Address: Shahid Navabi Street
Anjels Passage
Address: Abadani and Maskan Township, Golha Boulevard, Laleh Street
Elahiye Shopping Center
Address: Elahiye Township, Kashani Street
Zargarha Bazaar (Atlas Gold Bazaar)
Address: Modares Street, near Navab Intersection, Jalili Street
Qasr Passage
Address: Azadi Square
Nobahar Plaza Shopping Center
Address: 22 Bahman, Nobahar Intersection
Ruz Kermanshah Bazaar
Address: Azadi Square, Shahid Beheshti Boulevard
Lilium Shopping Center
Address: Kasra Street
Kermanshah Souvenirs and Handicrafts- travel to Kermanshah
Among the most famous food souvenirs of Kermanshah, one can mention “Bezhi” sweets, rice bread, sugar bread, date bread, and Kermanshahi oil cookies. You can buy these sweets at the Kermanshah traditional bazaar and from rice bread bakers. Additionally, you should add Kermanshahi oil to this list. With a little search, you can obtain excellent oil that will give an extraordinary aroma and taste to your dishes and rice.
In the list of handicraft souvenirs of the province, there are many items, among which the most important ones are carpets and rugs, kilims, colorful jajims, traditional fabrics, woodwork, jewelry, and leather products. Depending on your taste, we recommend choosing Kermanshah handicrafts as precious gifts or souvenirs for your loved ones.
Final words
Travel to Kermanshah is a captivating experience that combines rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. This enchanting city in western Iran offers a plethora of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. From the awe-inspiring historical sites like Taq-e Bostan and Bisotun, where ancient rock reliefs and inscriptions come to life, to the architectural marvels of Tekyeh Moaven al-Molk, Kermanshah showcases the grandeur of its past. Nature lovers can indulge in the mesmerizing beauty of Paraw Cave and Gouri Qaleh Cave, exploring their mysterious depths and marveling at the intricate formations. The serene lakes of Sarab-e Niloufar and Sarab-e Sahneh provide tranquil getaways surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Kermanshah is not just a destination; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature seeker, or a cultural explorer, this city has something extraordinary to offer. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and let Kermanshah weave its magic around you.