Travel Guide to Zahedan: Everything You Need to Know

Sistan and Baluchestan Province, with its stunning historical and natural attractions, offers a remarkable travel experience, although it has often been overlooked by tourists. Understanding the attractions of this province and its capital, Zahedan, can help you appreciate its breathtaking landscapes. Before traveling to Zahedan, take a look at this travel guide to gain valuable insights about the city. Join OrientTrips as we discuss the travel guide to Zahedan.

Geographical Location of Zahedan

When talking about traveling to Zahedan, the geographical location of this city is significant. Zahedan is the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan Province and one of Iran’s major cities. The name Zahedan might evoke thoughts of a remote city without tourist attractions, but a visit to this city will surprise you and change your perceptions. Zahedan is located in the north of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, connecting Pakistan, Khorasan, and Kerman. The city is 1,494 kilometers from Tehran and has an elevation of 1,385 meters above sea level.

Climate of Zahedan

Zahedan experiences a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with very hot summers and snowless winters. The coolest months are December and January, which also see the highest rainfall in Zahedan and Khash.

Recommended Hotels in Zahedan

Zahedan has a few hotels, but they offer good facilities that will satisfy you. Here are some of the most well-known hotels in Zahedan:

• Esteghlal Hotel: A 4-star hotel that has been welcoming tourists since 1998 with amenities such as a gym, internet café, green space, and shops for a comfortable stay.
• Saleh Hotel: A 2-star hotel located in the city center, providing easy access to the airport, religious sites, and shopping centers, with good facilities.
• Amin Hotel: A 2-star hotel established in 1993, located centrally with proximity to the university, airport, and bus terminal.
• Jahangardi Hotel: A 3-star hotel close to the market, airport, and train station, known for its excellent services and customer satisfaction.

Best Foods in Zahedan

No travel guide to Zahedan is complete without mentioning its best foods. The rich cultural and historical heritage of Zahedan is well reflected in its attractions and culinary delights. Here are some of the most delicious foods in Zahedan:

• Ojizak: A type of local stew from Sistan that does not contain meat and is similar to Ash-e-reshteh. It features a unique local spice called “Achar,” made from onion, wheat flour, and turmeric, giving it a distinctive flavor. Other ingredients include tomatoes, oil, onions, water, and potatoes.
• Doogh Berak: In Sistan’s culinary culture, Doogh (a yogurt-based drink) plays a significant role. One popular dish made with Doogh is Doogh Berak, prepared with Doogh, flour, turmeric, pepper, salt, and oil.
• Suzie Omelet: This traditional omelet is made with the plant “Suzie,” which can be substituted with spinach, though the Suzie plant gives the omelet its unique flavor. Ingredients include onions, potatoes, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil.
• Lenjou: Among the best foods in Zahedan, seafood holds a special place. Lenjou is a type of boiled fish prepared with local Doogh, onions, oil, fish, turmeric, pepper, salt, and Achar.

Attractions in Zahedan

Sistan and Baluchestan is an attractive yet lesser-known province, and due to lack of awareness, its image has been somewhat tarnished. However, a visit to this province and Zahedan will reveal its unique attractions. Here are some highlights:

Zaranj Mosque

Dating back to the 1st century AH, this mosque was built by Abdul Rahman bin Samra, a contemporary Arab ruler, opposite the Zaranj Prison. It has two minarets, one of which is ancient and the other covered in copper, making it one of Zahedan’s most significant historical attractions.

Shah Ali Mosque

Built in the mid-9th century AH, this historic mosque features intriguing architecture. Two tablets in the mosque mention the founder, Shah Ali, and the memorial of Amir Ghiyasuddin Mohammad Kiani, a member of the Sistan nobility.

Ayubi House

This historical house, built in 1932, offers a complete view of the lifestyle and architecture of the past. After extensive renovations, it now serves as Zahedan’s traditional arts workshop.

Nosratabad Caravanserai

Located on the Zahedan to Bam road, this caravanserai’s ruins showcase attractive architecture, drawing many tourists.

Hamun Wetland

A seasonal wetland on the border of Sistan and Baluchestan Province and Afghanistan, covering 1,600 square kilometers, with only 350 square kilometers in Iran. It is one of Zahedan’s most beautiful natural attractions, formed by the combination of Hamun-e Puzak, Hamun-e Sabari, and Hamun-e Kuh-e Khwaja.

Tamin Village

Known for its scenic views, excellent climate, rich history, and attractive rock architecture, making it one of Zahedan’s most popular attractions.

Zahedan Post and Communication Museum

Built in 1932 using raw bricks and local architectural styles, it initially served as the post and telegraph office of Sistan and Baluchestan. After renovations, it now houses the Post and Communication Museum.

Shopping Centers in Zahedan

Rasuli Bazaar: Zahedan’s most famous market, featuring narrow streets lined with shops and market stalls. Here, you can buy jeans, scarves, men’s coats, tea, costume jewelry, and more at very reasonable prices. The shops at the end of the market usually offer the lowest prices.

Hamun Commercial Complex: Specializing in computers and related equipment.

Hospitals in Zahedan

• Ali Ibn Abi Talib Hospital
  • Address: Persian Gulf Highway, Salamat Boulevard
• Khatam al-Anbiya Hospital
  • Address: Jam Jam Boulevard, Khatam al-Anbiya Hospital
• Social Security Hospital
  • Address: End of Behesht Boulevard, Parastari Square
• Bu Ali Hospital
  • Address: Amir al-Mo’menin Street, Bu Ali Hospital