Traveling to Charak Port: Everything You Need to Know
Traveling to Charak Port: Essential Tips and Guide
A local legend tells of a woman named Roghieh who owned a fresh water well in a region where water was naturally salty. She sold this water to the locals, and over time, the well became known as “Chah-e Roghieh”.
Eventually, the name evolved into Charak, which is now a crucial port in Iran. This transformation of a small well into a significant trading hub highlights Charak’s historical importance.
Contributor: Kingsly Xavier George / Alamy Stock Photo
Contents
Why Charak Port is Important
Charak Port is known as the gateway to Kish Island due to its short distance from the island. Passenger and vehicle ferries operate from the Charak dock, transporting travelers to Kish.
However, Charak’s significance extends beyond this. It serves as a logistical hub for goods and commercial exchanges, making it one of the most active ports in Hormozgan Province. Additionally, its strategic position makes it a crucial link between Iran and Persian Gulf nations.
Where is Charak Port Located?
Location: Hormozgan Province, Sheibkouh District, west of Bandar Lengeh.
Port Contact Number: +987644280544
Distances from Charak Port:
- Kish Island: 67 km
- Qeshm Island: 268 km
- Bandar Abbas: 274 km
- Bushehr: 355 km
How to Get to Charak Port
For a trip to Charak Port, your first stop should be Bandar Abbas. The fastest way is to book a flight to Bandar Abbas. From there, you can take a taxi to Charak. As of Winter 2025, the intercity taxi fare from Bandar Abbas is 10,000 Tomans per kilometer.
Train Tickets to Bandar Abbas
Alternatively, travelers can take a private vehicle and drive from major cities such as Shiraz or Isfahan to reach Charak. The journey by car provides scenic views of the Hormozgan coastline.
Charak Port at a Glance
Climate:
- Dry and cool to warm and humid.
- Summers can be extremely hot, reaching 45°C (113°F).
Best Time to Visit:
- Autumn and winter (December to February).
Local Products & Handicrafts:
- Food: Fish, shrimp, dates, citrus fruits, and locally grown herbs.
- Handicrafts: Woven mats, pottery, Chanteh (traditional bags), jewelry, and marine-themed decorative items.
Population:
- Approximately 5,000 residents.
Key Reasons for Charak’s Importance:
- Passenger transport
- Domestic maritime trade and economic development
- Commercial connections with Persian Gulf nations
- Logistics facilities for storage and warehousing
- Fishing industry and seafood exports
Before your trip, check Charak’s weather forecast online.
Top Attractions in Charak Port
Although most travelers pass through Charak on their way to Kish Island, the port has its own sights worth visiting.
1. Charak Beach Park
A well-equipped seaside park featuring:
- Accommodation spaces
- A prayer room
- Volleyball and soccer beach courts
- Boat rides
- Fishing areas and picnic zones
2. Charak Bazaar
A market offering local souvenirs, including:
- Dried fruits
- Date-based products
- Spices
- Traditional jewelry
- Locally made textiles and handcrafted goods
3. Sheikh Al-Ali Fortress
- A Qajar-era fortress built under the rule of Sheikh Saleh bin Sheikh Mohammad Al-Ali.
- In 2022, a 30% portion of the fortress was damaged due to an earthquake.
- The site is currently under partial restoration and offers a great historical insight.
Contributor: UPI / Alamy Stock Photo / Photographer: Maryam Rahmanian
4. Fishing and Seafood Experience
Charak is well-known for its vibrant fishing community. Visitors can take part in morning fish auctions or enjoy freshly caught seafood at local restaurants.
Where to Stay in Charak
There are no hotels in Charak Port, but visitors can find accommodations in suites, guesthouses, and lodges. Some available options include:
- Naseri Suite Charak
- Farzin Suite
- Khorshid Jonub Guesthouse
- Family-run homestays offering authentic Persian hospitality
If you have camping gear, setting up a tent at Charak Beach Park is allowed. Additionally, Charak Teachers’ House, located on Palestine Street, welcomes educators and their families.
Nearby Attractions to Charak Port
If you wish to continue your journey beyond Kish Island, consider visiting other nearby ports.
1. Bandar Lengeh
- Another route to Kish Island, offering historical and natural attractions such as:
- Fekri Mansion
- Lashtan Castle
- Sheikh Sultan Castle
- Lashatan Desert Cliffs
- Distance from Charak: 88 km (approx. 70 minutes by car)
2. Bandar Moqam
- A stunning coastal town known for:
- Mokassar Beach
- Shidvar Island
- Historic Ziyarat Village – Distance from Charak: 103 km (approx. 80 minutes by car)
Essential Travel Tips for Charak Port
If you’ve followed this guide so far, you’re now ready for a smooth trip to Charak Port. Keep these tips in mind:
- The weather is generally hot, even during winter—bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Expect crowds during peak travel seasons.
- If you plan to travel from Charak to Kish, check the passenger ferry and vehicle ferry schedules in advance.
- The round-trip ferry fare for a car with passengers in 2025 is 3,400,000 Tomans.
- Carry cash, as some smaller businesses do not accept credit cards.
- Try the famous seafood dishes at local restaurants.
Final Thoughts
Charak Port, the busiest gateway to Kish Island, is a historic port tracing its roots back to the Zand dynasty. Beyond its role in passenger transport, it is a vital hub for maritime trade with Persian Gulf nations. This guide has provided a comprehensive travel overview to help plan your visit. To book flights or train tickets, call the 24-hour customer service at 1548.
How can I travel to Charak Port?
To get to Charak Port using public transport, take a train or flight to Bandar Abbas, then take an intercity taxi to Charak.
How far is Charak from Kish Island?
Charak is 67 km away from Kish, and the ferry ride takes approximately 120 minutes.
Is there an official website for Charak Port?
Currently, there is no official website for Charak Port. For ferry schedules, visit www.charak-kish.ir or the Telegram channel @charakkish.