{"id":2245,"date":"2023-07-28T18:49:20","date_gmt":"2023-07-28T18:49:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/orienttrips.com\/mag\/?p=2245"},"modified":"2026-01-19T16:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T11:30:00","slug":"kerman-travel-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/orienttrips.com\/mag\/kerman-travel-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Kerman City Guide: Everything You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The city of Kerman<\/strong>, with an area of 240 square kilometers, is one of Iran’s major cities and the heart of the vast Kerman province located in southeastern Iran in a desert region, surrounded by the provinces of Khorasan<\/strong>, Yazd<\/a><\/strong>, Sistan<\/strong> and Baluchistan<\/strong>, Hormozgan<\/strong>, and Fars<\/strong>. This ancient desert city boasts spectacular and distinctive nature, is several thousand years old, and harbors some of Iran’s most amazing historical sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must Visit Attractions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Attractions for Ancient Site Enthusiasts<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a history spanning several millennia, Kerman<\/a><\/strong> contains many of Iran’s historical attractions, ranging from traditional bathhouses to ancient citadels and fire temples. Every corner of this amazing city is filled with precious ancient sites that magnificently exhibit the grandeur of Iranian history, culture, and art. Some of Kerman’s most fascinating ancient sites include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ganjali Khan Complex<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Ganjali
Ganjali Khan Complex, Kerman, Iran (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Throughout history, many rulers governed Iran; some strived for its prosperity while others sought its destruction. Ganjali Khan undoubtedly belongs to the former group. A patriot at heart, he spared no effort to develop and improve our country, especially the city of Kerman, leaving behind numerous valuable monuments and complexes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One surviving historical structure from the Safavid<\/strong> era is the Ganjali Khan Complex<\/a><\/strong>, consisting of a square, traditional bazaar<\/strong>, a Mint<\/strong>, and bathhouse<\/strong> (which today serves as Kerman’s anthropology museum). Each section features intricately designed architecture in excellent condition. Visiting such a complex will surely reveal the magnificence of Iranian art and architecture during the Abbasid era, captivating you with its wondrous designs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vakil Bathhouse<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Vakil
Vakil Bathhouse in Kerman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

With exemplary architecture dating back over 100 years, this bathhouse from the Zand<\/strong> era remains one of the most popular historical sites, now serving as a traditional teahouse and restaurant after undergoing adaptive reuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Anahita Temple<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Anahita
Anahita Temple, Kerman, Iran (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Wandering through eastern Kerman, you will come across a structure perched atop rocky cliffs that add to the region’s historical value – the ancient castle, also known as the Dokhtar Castle<\/strong>, none other than the Anahita Temple bearing the title of Kerman’s oldest ancient monument. Although little remains beyond crumbling walls worn by erosion over time, the extant sections still provide an indescribably pleasurable viewing experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jabalieh Dome<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Jabalieh
Jabalieh Dome in Kerman (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Jebeliyeh Dome<\/strong> is another key Kerman historical site located in eastern Kerman. Jabalieh Dome, also famous as the Gabri Dome<\/strong>, stands out as the only stone structure of Kerman, attracting many tourists. What makes this dome exceptionally notable is its uncertain history. Some believe it was a Zoroastrian<\/strong>-era fire temple, while others think it belonged to the Seljuk<\/strong> era, though the latter seems unlikely. An intriguing tale also persists that camel milk was used instead of water in the dome’s plaster, contributing to its remarkable durability. Unfortunately, there are no reliable sources to confirm this story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Attractions for Nature Lovers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The charming and enchanting nature of Kerman province has always been one of the main reasons for visiting this spectacular city. From its lush forests and soaring mountains to its barren deserts and secluded, untouched wastelands, every inch of Kerman province is brimming with natural wonders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Pardisan Qaem Forest<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Pardisan
Pardisan Qaem Forest in Kerman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The existence of such an emerald, wondrous nature in a province with a desert climate is a precious blessing that should not be missed under any circumstances. This 300-hectare green area, known as the lungs of Kerman City, is the best place to spend a delightful afternoon in Kerman Province. The Pardisan Qaem Forest has become popular for athletes and nature lovers with its scenic views, great amenities, and hiking-friendly mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shazdeh Mahan Garden<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Shazdeh
Shazdeh Mahan Garden, Kerman (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Just 2 km from Mahan town<\/strong> lies a colorful paradise nestled in the foothills of the charming Taq-e Geran mountains<\/strong>, leaving every tourist in awe of its beauty. Dating back to the Qajar<\/strong> era, Shazdeh Mahan Garden is a lost paradise amidst a barren desert \u2013 an oasis to escape the unbearable heat of the desert and a sanctuary to get away from life’s worries. Its immense historical value earned it a UNESCO<\/a><\/strong> World Heritage Site listing in 2011. All elements of traditional Persian garden beauty come together here to turn Shazdeh Mahan into one of the most beautiful gardens in Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fathabad Garden<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Fathabad
Fathabad Garden, Kerman, Iran (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Also known as the Biglarbigi Garden<\/strong>, this Qajar<\/strong>-era garden boasts mesmerizing scenery. It is a popular sight among culture and art enthusiasts thanks to its stunning architecture and creative design. Located 25 km from Kerman, it is highly recommended to all travelers to this spectacular city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kerman Mountainside<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Kerman
Kerman Mountainside<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

For those who wish to spend a memorable afternoon immersed in Kerman’s natural beauty, the mountainside region is just the spot they are looking for. It is 30 km north of Kerman and encompasses abundant natural blessings like verdant plains, lush gardens, raging rivers, deep valleys, and towering waterfalls. It is an ideal secluded spot for hiking<\/strong> and reveling in nature’s splendor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sirch Ski Resort<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Sirch
Sirch Ski Resort in Kerman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Hard to believe, but the largest ski resort in southeastern Iran lies in the desert city of Kerman! A winter paradise for skiing enthusiasts, it offers expansive runs and slopes apt for ascents and ski descents. So, if you enjoy skiing, don’t miss out on visiting this resort located at an elevation in Sirch, 80 km from Kerman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shahdad Desert<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Shahdad
Shahdad Desert, Kerman, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Kerman is a city of contrasts, reconciling scorching deserts and frigid highlands thanks to its unique climate. Simply continue towards Shahdad after visiting the ski resort to watch the wintry chill transform into the sweltering summer heat and barren wastelands burst into verdant. The Shahdad region is a world unto itself, encompassing various ancient sites and attractions like Haj Mohammad Taghi Cistern, Shahdad Watermill, Shahdad Ancient Castle, ancient cemeteries, and Bahram Fortress. However, what draws hordes of tourists. is none other than the spectacular Shahdad Desert<\/a><\/strong>. Its dreamlike, staggering vistas seem almost unreal \u2013 towering sand pyramids erected by the wind stand tall amidst the barren expanse, creating a surreal and ethereal atmosphere. Without a doubt, visiting the Shahdad Desert, where nature astonishes you with a unique form of beauty, is highly recommended to all desert lovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shahdad Kaluts<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Shahdad
Shahdad Kaluts, Kerman, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The Shahdad Kaluts are one of Kerman’s most beautiful natural attractions for nature lovers. Kaluts are unique natural cube-shaped formations created through wind and water erosion over time. The world’s most stunning and largest Kaluts can be found in the United States, Peru, and Iran. The tallest Iranian kaluts are the Shahdad kaluts, located about 140 km from Kerman City. To take a day trip around Kerman to the Kaluts, you must set out early in the morning. At first glance, you may think the kaluts are remnants of an ancient city, but they are one of nature’s masterpieces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cultural Experiences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Kerman province is a province of museums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Zoroastrian Anthropology Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Zoroastrian
Zoroastrian Anthropology Museum in Kerman (photo by Wikidata)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The Zoroastrian Anthropology Museum is the world’s first and only Zoroastrian anthropology museum. Construction of this museum was completed in 2001. The oldest artifacts in the museum are a handwritten Gathas manuscript and a handheld fire holder engraved with the date 1207. The Kerman Zoroastrian Anthropology Museum houses a collection of fire holders, oil and resin burners, and laleh lamps. Another section of the museum displays 50 to 150-year-old garments. Makna, lechak, chador, coat, embroidered shirt, and pants are among the varieties of women’s clothing preserved here, representing Zoroastrian women’s attire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Museum of Contemporary Industrial Art<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Museum
Museum of Contemporary Industrial Art, Kerman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The Kerman Museum of Contemporary Industrial Art houses authentic works by world-renowned artists and exhibits various aspects of Iranian visual arts. About half of the works belong to Master Saeed Aliakbar Sanati<\/strong>. At the same time, over 83 other contemporary Iranian artists and 16 foreign artists contribute the remaining pieces \u2013 undoubtedly the most unique collection in the country after the Tehran<\/a><\/strong> Museum of Contemporary Art, constituting the richest trove of contemporary Iranian and world art within Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kerman National Library<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Kerman
Kerman National Library (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The Kerman National Library (Khorshid Textile Factory) dates back to the first Pahlavi<\/strong> era and is Registered under number 2419 on September 21, 1999, it is one of Iran’s national heritage sites. This beautiful single-story brick building with a pleasant courtyard is worth visiting by the curious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cuisine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One taste of Kerman’s traditional cuisine can make you a lifelong fan. The food variety in this city is so extensive that delicious options exist for every palate \u2013 from hearty legume stews to mouthwatering meat dishes that set every tourist’s mouthwatering. The diversity and abundance of this city’s cuisine are renowned among locals and visitors alike. Some of Kerman’s most popular dishes that have earned global fame include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boz Ghormeh<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Boz
Boz Ghormeh (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

This delicious dish, named for the Kid (baby goat) meat in its ingredients, tops the list of Kerman’s tastiest, heartiest meals. Resembling barley soup in appearance, additions like saffron ensure superior aroma and flavor that make it a treat for fans of our country’s local delicacies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Khoresh Aloocheh (green plum stew)<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Khoresh
Khoresh Aloocheh<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Simple ingredients like veal, green plums, Pinto beans, and herbs like dill and Coriander come together through a miraculous recipe known only to Kerman’s ladies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lapeh polo with cumin<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Lapeh
Lapeh polo with cumin<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Nowadays, cumin’s abundant health benefits are well-established, and its consumption is widely recommended by many nutrition experts. It may interest you that Kerman locals habitually incorporate this addition into their dishes, which is how several such creations have earned a spot in the colorful, varied menus of the city’s eateries. One of the most popular is Lapeh polo with cumin, which combines ingredients like rice, split pea, turmeric, ground lamb, chili pepper, cumin, onion, and rice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amaag Ash or Omag Ash<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Omag
Omag Ash (photo by Alamto)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Make sure to try Amaach Ash, locally known as Ash-e Shooli. This dish contains a mix of wheat flour, herbs, vinegar, and Qarequrut.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gandom Shir Ash<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Gandom
Gandom Shir Ash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Made from chickpeas, meat-on-the-bone, noodle strips, Kashk, wheat, garlic, onions, and fried mint, Gandom Shir Ash is another traditional filling Kerman soup we highly recommend trying during your stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meatball Soup with cumin<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Meatball
Meatball Soup with cumin<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Cumin holds an undeniably special position in Kerman’s traditional food. This dish is cooked with meat, cumin, onions, and garlic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day trips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Arg-e Bam<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Arg-e
Arg-e Bam, Kerman, Iran (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Arg-e Bam is a must on any Kerman travel itinerary. It’s the world’s largest mud-brick structure<\/strong>. This historic structure is listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage sites<\/strong>. Unfortunately, the devastating 2003 Bam earthquake<\/strong> severely damaged this magnificent citadel. Yet it has retained its glory and remains one of the most important historical sites of the city. Over the past 15 years, Arg-e Bam has been largely restored to continue to shine as a historical wonder in Iran and worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rayen Citadel<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Rayen
Rayen Citadel, Kerman, Iran (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

After Bam Citadel, Rayen Citadel<\/a><\/strong> is the world’s second-largest mudbrick structure – a popular resort hosting hoards of visitors. Situated 105 km southeast of Kerman, this nationally registered landmark spans over 22,000 sq m at the top of an ancient mound. Dating back to Sassanid<\/strong> times with similarities to Bam Citadel, it is also known as Mirza Hossein Khan Citadel<\/strong> for serving as the capital of the beloved Zand rulers like Mohammad Hasan Khan and his son Mohammad Ali Khan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rayen Citadel has a square layout encompassing 10 m high towers and ramparts. Its gorgeous gateway lies to the east, opening onto various sections like the stables, gym, and aristocratic and public districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rageh Canyon<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Rageh
Rageh Canyon in Kerman (photo by Tripadvisor)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Rageh Canyon near Rafsanjan<\/strong> is another key natural site in Kerman Province. This deep, at times 80-meter canyon carved out by a 20 km long river passing through it is considered Iran’s third geopark after Qeshm<\/strong> and Aras<\/strong>. Formed through erosion over 20,000 years, the picturesque Rageh Canyon remains one of Kerman’s top attractions. When traversing this canyon, you may often have to pass through the ever-flowing river, so bring adequate gear. The nights here offer phenomenal stargazing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tomb of Shah Ne’matollah Vali<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Tomb of Shah Ne’matollah Vali in Kerman (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Another popular historical sightseeing spot for Kerman day trips is the Tomb of Shah Ne’matollah Vali, located 37 km from Kerman on Valiat St off Heft Bagh Road. This tomb complex encompasses various structures dating from the Timurid to the Qajar<\/strong> eras. The tomb has a rectangular chamber with a domed ceiling, originally constructed in 1440 AD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Registered nationally as Iranian heritage, it bears decorations like plasterwork, turquoise, lapis lazuli tiles, and Solomonic patterns. Its grave marker is made of marble, inscribed with the names of the 12 Imams and Quranic verses. Other sections include the Shah Abbasi porch, library, museum, and Amir Nezam Garousi’s tomb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sang Garden<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Sang
Sang Garden in Kerman (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Sang (Stone<\/strong>) Garden is one of the strangest and most unique destinations for a day trip from Kerman. An interesting tale exists about its creation. In 1961, Darvish Khan Esfandiarpoor<\/strong> lost his gardens due to land reforms and created this stone garden in protest. He stopped irrigating his garden until all trees withered and died, later planting their dried trunks and hanging stone fruits using wire. The garden now spans 1000 sq m with all trees bearing stone fruits. Darvish Khan passed away in 2007 at the age of 83. Visiting this stone garden and hearing its bizarre inception story promises an intriguing time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Simak Waterfalls<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Simak
Simak Waterfalls in Kerman, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Located 35 km from Kerman City, Simak Valley contains numerous waterfalls. The Simak waterfalls are popular sightseeing spots for family picnics and day trips around Kerman, especially for nature lovers. The valley walls are ideal spots for professional climbers and mountaineers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shengestan Valley<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Shengestan Valley in Kerman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Shengestan Valley lies 30 km from Kerman City and is close to the Simak Falls. This valley’s mild climate and lush nature have turned it into one of the go-to destinations for sightseeing trips around Kerman. If you plan to visit Shengestan Valley, carry essentials and wear suitable shoes. The valley floor is rocky, and the terrain is not easily traversable for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Public transport<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Taxies in Kerman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The city of Kerman enjoys very good public transport, with an effective bus network spreading through the city like arteries, capable of taking you to all corners of this spectacular city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If any location is inaccessible by public transport, you can easily take the Kerman line taxis to reach even the furthest points of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also use online taxi services like Snapp<\/strong> and Tapsi<\/strong> to get around. These services allow you to order a taxi from any point to your desired destination. To use wireless taxis in this city, you can also call 133.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Safety consideration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n