Are you looking for a destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and tradition? Then you should definitely visit Golestan Province in Iran, which is a picturesque land part that offers a spectacular glimpse into the country’s past and present. From modern amenities to ancient history and traditions, this province has everything you could ever wish for in a vacation spot.
In this blog post, we will delve further into this mesmerizing Province, presenting its charming attractions and highlighting the mouth-watering culinary delights that every visitor must try while exploring the destination.
Discover The Hidden Treasures Of Golestan Province In Iran
Golestan province (also known as Golestān) is one of the most enchanting places in Iran that you should add to your bucket list. This region, located in the north of Iran on the southern shores of the Caspian Sea, has a subtropical climate with many rivers flowing through dense forests. Turkmens are a significant minority in the Golestan province, speaking their own language, and their folk music appears in Bakhshi and Baghshi rhythms. From archaeological findings in the ancient hill of Torāng Tappe, civilization in the province dates back to 3000 BC.
Kāvūs Tower: Explore One Of The Largest Brick Towers Of The 9th Century
Kāvūs Tower, also called Qābūs Tower or Gonbad-e Qābūs, is a brick structure that serves as the tomb of Shams ol-Moālī Key Kāvūs Ibn Voshmgīr. The tower is located on the top of a hill in the middle of the public park of the town of Gonbad. The conical dome itself is 18 meters high, and the tower is considered one of the largest brick towers in the 9th century.
Āgh Ghalā Lagoon: A Paradise For Migrating Birds
Head to the southern bank of Atrak River to discover Āgh Ghalā Lagoon, a habitat for diverse kinds of migrating birds such as flamingoes, swans, and wild geese. With its wonderful scenery, vast lawns and availability of access roads, this place has high potential for attracting tourists.
Atrak River: Enjoy An Incredible 600 Kilometers River
Atrak River originates from Hezar Masjid and Laleh Ruyan mountains in Khorāsān and flows 600 kilometers long and ends up in the Caspian Sea. Visiting the river should be on your to-do list while in Golestan province.
Nahārkhorān Forest Area: A Great Escape For Nature Lovers
Nahārkhorān Forest Area is an attraction for tourists and nature lovers who can enjoy many facilities such as hotels and restaurants. Beautiful and tranquil, it provides visitors with all the resort facilities they need.
Mīnākalleh Wild Life: A Real Heaven For Marine Animals
Located in the south-east of the Caspian Sea, Mīnākalleh Wild Life Shelter is a real heaven for marine animals and migrating birds like geese, swans, flamingos, pelicans, pheasants, and some other local birds like Dorrāj and Zangūleh Bāl.
Āshūrādeh Island: A Perfect Habitat For Different Kinds Of Local And Migrating Birds
Āshūrādeh Island is located 25 kilometers from Gorgān city and is one of the most attractive sites of Golestān province with a temperate, humid weather. This island is a perfect habitat for different kinds of local and migrating birds. Activities such as visiting the port and the facilities of Bandar Torkman, the beaches of Āshūrādeh Island and hunting fish for caviar are among the common recreational activities of natives of the region.
Torāng Tappe: A Rich And Large Ancient Hill
Torāng Tappe is one of the richest and largest ancient hills in Golestān province, located 25 kilometers northeast of Gorgān. Archeological studies show that civilization on this hill dates back to five thousand years ago.
Rādkān Tower: Discover The Famous Commander’s Tomb In Golestan Province
Rādkān Tower āūī is located on top of a hill 24 kilometers from the town of Kordkū near the village of Rādkān. This is the tomb of the famous commander, Āl-e Bāvānd of Tabarestān. This brick tower, with a conical dome, has a height of 35 meters and dates back to the 9th century C.E.
All in all, Golestan province in Iran has a lot to offer visitors, from its beautiful nature and wildlife to its extraordinary historical sites. Explore and discover all the unique wonders that Golestan has in store for you.
The Land of Delicious Foods: Golestan
In Golestan, foodies can indulge in a wide variety of food items, with dishes that are juicy, flavourful, and absolutely delight a traveller’s palate. Here are some of the must-try dishes of Iranian cuisine that should be on the list of every visitor to Golestan Province:
- Kebabs: This mouthwatering grilled meat is a popular dish in the Middle East and irrevocably represents Iranian cuisine. The juicy meat grilled to perfection and served with bread and salad is an irresistible treat.
- Aash: A signature soup of Iran, Aash is a healthy, nourishing meal that is made from various vegetables and herbs, such as beans, lentils, spinach, and even noodles. A bowl of Aash is a flavorful and filling meal, perfect for staying warm and satisfied on chilly nights.
- Baqala Polo: Rice is a staple ingredient in Iranian cuisine, and Baqala Polo, a fragrant dish that is a heavenly combination of rice, lentils, onion, and dill, is one that you have to try. The flavours and aromas of this Iranian speciality are simply unforgettable.
- Halim Bademjan: A signature culinary delight from Golestan Province, Halim Bademjan is made using eggplants, tomato sauce, minced meat, and spices, which result in a creamy texture and rich flavor. This mouth-watering signature dish is a must-try for any visitor to Golestan Province.
Before You Pack Your Bags: Essential Travel Notes for a Safe and Memorable Visit to Golestan Province
When planning to visit Golestan Province, it is essential to have a clear idea of what to expect in terms of climate, transportation, accommodation, and cultural practices. Below are some important notes to help you plan your trip to Golestan Province.
Climate
Golestan has a semi-arid climate with hot and dry summers and cold winters. Summers can be sweltering, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 45 degrees Celsius, so visitors are advised to stay hydrated and carry sun protection gear. Winters tend to be cold and freezing, with temperatures sometimes dropping below zero degrees Celsius. Visitors should pack warm clothing and also take appropriate winter gear when visiting the location during the winter season.
Transportation
Golestan is well-connected to the rest of Iran, and domestic flights are available from almost all major cities in Iran. For those who prefer ground transportation, buses and trains are regular and relatively inexpensive. The region also has a taxi system that runs around the clock, with many drivers often accepting rides for long distances between major cities.
Accommodation
Golestan has a range of accommodation options to fit various budgets, from luxury hotels and guesthouses with premium amenities to hostels and campgrounds for those who prefer a more affordable stay. In the village regions of Golestan, one can experience homestays with locals to get a more authentic and cultural experience.
Cultural Practices
Golestan is rich in culture and tradition, and visitors are advised to respect the cultural practices and customs of the locals. Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in religious sites where covering the head is mandatory for both men and women. Alcohol, though available, is highly regulated and not readily available in public, so travelers should be aware or respectful of such regulations.
Safety
Golestan is a relatively safe place with very low crime rates. However, visitors should always be cautious of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Visitors are advised not to travel alone in the deserts and mountains and to hire a local guide for safety during such activities.
Travel to Golestan and Iran
Visiting Iran and Golestan can be an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves to explore new cultures and traditions. Iran has been attracting more tourists every year, and it’s no surprise why. From ancient architecture to delicious cuisines, Iran is a country that has something for everyone.
Golestan is a unique place that offers visitors a chance to explore Iran’s nature, history, and culture. This part of the land is blessed with natural beauty, cultural sites and ruins, and unique customs and traditions. You can visit the places mentioned earlier in this article and experience the unique lifestyle and hospitality of the people of Golestan.
ToIranTour is a travel agency that has been helping tourists from all over the world to have the best time in Iran with Iran tours and travel packages for all tastes. We understand that every traveler has different preferences and travel styles. That’s why we offer customized tours that cater to your needs and interests. We have a team of experts who can help you plan an itinerary based on your preferences, budget, and available time.
We believe that Iran is a country that deserves to be explored, and we strive to make your journey as enjoyable and memorable as possible. Our team members are passionate about traveling and have deep knowledge about every corner of Iran. They can give you detailed information about each place you want to visit and offer you suggestions on what to see and do according to your interests.
