
Most Scenic Road Trips in Kermānshāh, Iran
1. Shahdad Desert (Lut Desert)
Experience the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over towering clay castles in the largest desert in Iran.
- Natural Phenomenon: The unique geological formations are shaped by wind erosion, creating a surreal landscape.
- Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes the desert an ideal spot for stargazing, especially during clear nights.
- Accessibility: Located just a few hours from Kermanshah city, it's easily accessible and offers overnight camping opportunities.
2. Khouzestan Province
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes while driving through the Khouzestan province, home to ancient cities and natural wonders.
- Historical Landmarks: Visit Shush (Susa) to explore the ancient Elamite ruins or Behbehan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ethnic Diversity: Meet the Arabic-speaking Ahwazi Arab population and learn about their unique culture and traditions.
- Natural Wonders: Explore the magnificent Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat and the Haft Tappeh historical mound in the midst of vast agricultural lands.
3. Kurdistan Province
Drive through lush valleys, towering mountains and ancient villages as you journey through the Kurdistan province.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the local Kurdish culture by visiting traditional markets and enjoying authentic cuisine.
- Mountainous Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of the Zagros Mountains, offering numerous opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Ancient Sites: Explore ancient sites like Bisotun, home to Darius's Behistun Inscription, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran.
4. Qaleh-ye Suleimān (Sulaiman Castle)
Marvel at the architectural wonder of Sulaiman Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Hawr al-Hammar.
- Architectural Masterpiece: The castle's unique design features a combination of Persian and Islamic architectural elements.
- Lake Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Hawr al-Hammar from the castle's grounds, surrounded by rugged mountains and plains.
- Historical Significance: Discover the castle's rich history dating back to the Sassanid Empire period (224-651 AD).
5. Kangavar to Paveh Road
Drive along the picturesque Kangavar to Paveh road, passing by stunning mountain landscapes, ancient villages, and lush valleys.
- Rural Landscapes: Enjoy scenic views of traditional Kurdish villages nestled in the verdant valleys and towering mountains.
- Ancient Bridges: Cross ancient stone bridges such as the Pol-e Dokhtar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and learn about their traditions, cuisine, and unique crafts along the way.
6. Salas-e Babajani Protected Area
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Salas-e Babajani Protected Area, home to diverse wildlife and picturesque lakes.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot rare species like the Persian fallow deer, Iranian lynx, and leopard.
- Lake Beauty: Enjoy the tranquility of Lake Salas, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges.
- Natural Wonders: Wander through limestone caves, such as Kafirestan Cave, and marvel at the unique geological formations.
7. Anahita Temple
Visit the ancient Anahita Temple dedicated to the Iranian goddess of fertility and water, set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain landscapes.
- Historical Significance: Discover the temple's rich history dating back to the Parthian Empire (247 BC – 224 AD).
- Architectural Masterpiece: Marvel at the unique architectural design, featuring two massive stone lions guarding the entrance.
- Scenic Drive: Drive through picturesque mountain landscapes to reach the temple, offering stunning views along the way.
8. Tarab River Valley
Explore the picturesque Tarab River Valley, filled with verdant fields, traditional villages, and stunning mountain landscapes.
- Scenic Drive: Drive along the winding roads that follow the river, offering breathtaking views of the valley.
- Rural Landscapes: Enjoy scenic views of traditional Kurdish villages nestled in the verdant valleys and towering mountains.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and learn about their traditions, cuisine, and unique crafts along the way.
9. Hekar Mountain Range
Drive through the breathtaking Hekar Mountain Range, offering stunning vistas of lush valleys, towering peaks, and ancient villages.
- Mountainous Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of the Hekar Mountain Range, offering numerous opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Ancient Sites: Explore ancient sites like Gurgan Castle, perched on a cliff in the mountains.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and learn about their traditions, cuisine, and unique crafts along the way.
10. Dasht-e Kavir National Park
Experience the vastness of Dasht-e Kavir, Iran's largest desert and a crucial habitat for many bird species.
- Bird Watching: Spot numerous bird species such as the lesser kestrel and great bustard.
- Natural Wonders: Marvel at the unique geological formations, such as the Namak Lake, a salt lake in the desert.
- Desert Landscapes: Explore the vast and ever-changing landscapes of Iran's largest desert, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of the country.
11. Behistun Inscription
Marvel at the stunning Behistun Inscription, a UNESCO World Heritage Site chronicling the conquests of Darius the Great.
- Historical Significance: Discover the inscription's rich history and its importance to understanding ancient Persian culture.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Admire the massive rock relief carvings, showcasing intricate details and impressive craftsmanship.
- Scenic Drive: Drive through breathtaking mountain landscapes to reach the inscription, offering stunning views along the way.
12. Qasr-e Shapur
Visit Qasr-e Shapur, an ancient Persian palace complex showcasing the power and grandeur of the Sassanid Empire.
- Historical Significance: Discover the palace's rich history dating back to the Sassanid Empire (224-651 AD).
- Architectural Masterpiece: Marvel at the unique architectural design, featuring intricate carvings and grand architecture.
- Scenic Drive: Drive through picturesque mountain landscapes to reach the palace, offering stunning views along the way.
13. Paveh Waterfall
Marvel at the breathtaking Paveh Waterfall cascading down the steep cliffs of the Zagros Mountains.
- Natural Wonder: Enjoy the stunning beauty and power of the waterfall as it tumbles down the mountain.
- Scenic Drive: Drive through picturesque valleys and lush landscapes to reach the waterfall, offering breathtaking views along the way.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and learn about their traditions, cuisine, and unique crafts along the way.
14. Karafto Cave
Explore Karafto Cave, one of the largest caves in Iran and a crucial habitat for numerous bat species.
- Natural Wonder: Marvel at the cave's stunning stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot numerous bat species, such as the greater horseshoe bat, that call the cave home.
- Scenic Drive: Drive through picturesque mountain landscapes to reach the cave, offering breathtaking views along the way.
15. Qareh Chay Rural District
Explore the picturesque Qareh Chay Rural District, filled with lush valleys, traditional villages, and stunning mountain landscapes.
- Scenic Drive: Drive along winding roads that follow the river, offering breathtaking views of the valley.
- Rural Landscapes: Enjoy scenic views of traditional Kurdish villages nestled in the verdant valleys and towering mountains.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and learn about their traditions, cuisine, and unique crafts along the way.