How to Get to Karaj. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Karaj

International Airports

Karaj does not feature a major international airport. The main international gateway for Tehran and the surrounding region, including Karaj, is Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), situated approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Karaj.

Airports

IKA (Imam Khomeini International Airport) for international flights.
THR (Mehrabad International Airport) in Tehran mostly caters to domestic flights.
PYM (Payam International Airport) in Karaj is mainly cargo, with limited passenger services.

Airlines & Routes

Numerous international airlines fly into IKA from major global hubs within Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Non-stop flights to IKA are available from various European capitals and West Asian hubs.

Popular Airlines

Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa.
Iran Air, Mahan Air, Aseman Airlines, Zagros Airlines, Meraj Airlines for domestic routes.
Flight prices higher during Persian New Year (Nowruz) and summer peak season.

Airport Facilities

IKA offers duty-free shops, currency exchange, car rental, cafes, restaurants, healthcare services, and prayer rooms.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available, but a VPN is needed for filtered web pages and social media. Consider AirHelp for flight issues.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange counters are available at IKA for DOLLARS or EUR to Iranian Rial.

Airport Transfers to Karaj

From IKA

Taxis available; agree on fare (approx. IRR 5-10M).
Ride-sharing apps (Snapp, Tapsi) with local SIM card.
Less direct bus options, usually via Tehran.
For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

From THR

Taxis readily available for shorter journey.
Tehran Metro Line 4 to Eram-e Sabz, then Line 5 to Karaj.
Regular bus services connect Tehran to Karaj.
THR is about 60 km east of Karaj.

Air Travel Advice

Entry Point

For international arrivals, fly into IKA.

Local SIM

Acquire a local SIM card at the airport for ride-sharing apps and calls.

Transfer Planning

Arrange your transfer to Karaj in advance or upon arrival.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

Karaj is part of Iran's extensive railway network, with the Karaj Railway Station serving as a connection point.

Connections

Karaj Railway Station connects to Tehran and other major cities.
Courses to Mashhad, Isfahan, and Shiraz typically via Tehran.
Iranian trains are generally comfortable and safe, giving a relaxed way to travel long distances.

Bus Network

Karaj features a central bus terminal, known as Terminal-e Karaj or Terminal-e Shahid Fallahi, with an extensive network.

Bus Options

Connects Karaj to virtually all major cities and towns across Iran.
Choose between VIP buses, offering more spacious seats and amenities, and standard buses.
Numerous private coach operators operate these routes.

Driving Conditions

Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Road conditions vary; main highways are generally good, but local roads can be of lower quality.

Traffic & Rules

Traffic in cities, especially Tehran and Karaj, can be heavy and chaotic.
Night driving outside cities can be risky due to poor lighting and unmarked obstacles.
Mountainous roads, like the scenic Chalus Road, are winding and challenging, particularly in winter.

Car Rental

Car rental agencies are available in Tehran and Karaj for independent travel.

Requirements

An International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national driving you need a license.
Major companies might include local Iranian agencies. Check DiscoverCars.com.
Speed limits are generally 120 km/h on highways, 80 kilometers per hour on main roads, and 50 kilometers per hour in cities.

Safety on Roads

Aggressive driving standards are common; remain alert.
Mountain roads can close due to snow and ice in winter.
Avoid driving long distances at night, where feasible.

Always maintain enough distance from other vehicles.
Avoid using mobile phones while driving.
Familiarize yourself with routes before departing.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

An exit tax generally applies for all Iranian and foreign nationals departing Iran by air or land. The fee is payable in Iranian Rials before departure.

Tax Details

The fee varies and you must pay it in Iranian Rials, usually at banks or specific airport kiosks.
As of early 2024, it is approximately IRR 4,000,000 - 8,000,000 for air travel.
Confirm the current fee closer to your departure date as it is may change.

Airport Departure Protocol

For international flights departing from Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Departure Steps

This gives sufficient time for check-in, security screening, immigration procedures, and verification of your exit tax payment.
Airport and station facilities for departing travelers include waiting areas, cafes, restaurants, duty-free shops, and currency exchange services.
You can use these facilities while waiting for your flight or train.

Arrival Time

Arrive at IKA at least three hours before your international flight.

Exit Tax

Pay your exit tax in advance at a bank or airport kiosk to avoid last-minute delays.

Documents Ready

Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass readily accessible.

Departure Tip

Plan your airport transfer to account for potential traffic, particularly during rush hour.

How to Get to Karaj