Famous Landmarks in Kermanshah. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing

Iconic Landmarks of Kermanshah

Taq-e Bostan (UNESCO Tentative List): Located just outside Kermanshah city, Taq-e Bostan features a series of large rock bas-reliefs dating from the Sasanian Empire (3rd to 7th centuries AD). The location includes two impressive large arches (iwans) and several smaller reliefs. These carvings depict royal hunts, investiture ceremonies, and figures of powerful Sasanian kings like Khosrow II and Ardashir II. The site sits dramatically at the base of a spring-fed mountain, adding to its mystique. It has a visual narrative of Sasanian power and artistry.

Bisotun (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Approximately 30 km east of Kermanshah, Bisotun is a site of immense historical importance. Its centerpiece is the multi-lingual Bisotun Inscription, carved high on a cliff face by Darius I the Great (c. 522 BCE). This inscription details his rise to power and his victories, proving instrumental in deciphering Old Persian cuneiform. The site also includes Median and Achaemenid reliefs, a Parthian statue of Hercules, and the remains of a Sasanian bridge and caravanserai, showing historical layers.

Visitor Essentials

Taq-e Bostan Hours:Typically open during daylight hours, with specific times varying slightly by season (e.g., 9 AM - 7 PM). Confirm locally upon arrival.
Taq-e Bostan Fees:An entrance fee applies for non-Iranians (e.g., approximately 500,000 IRR or 50,000 Toman).
Bisotun Hours:Generally open during daylight hours.
Bisotun Fees:An an admission fee applies for non-Iranians (e.g., approximately 500,000 IRR or 50,0FROM 12 toman) for the main site.

Museums and Cultural Institutions

Major Museums

Kermanshah Archaeological Museum:Located within the stunning Qajar-era Tekyeh Moaven ol-Molk complex, this museum houses artifacts spanning prehistoric times, ancient Persia, and the Islamic era. Its collections reflect the significant and layered history of Kermanshah Province.
Kermanshah Ethnography Museum:Also situated within the Tekyeh Moaven ol-Molk, this museum highlights the traditional Kurdish costumes, tools, crafts, and daily life items of the local people. It presents a fascinating insight into the region's cultural heritage.

Other Cultural Spots

Specialized & Museums With a specific focus:The Archaeological and Ethnography Museums are the main ones geared towards general tourists, offering comprehensive insights into the region.
Art Galleries and Exhibition Spaces:Formal art galleries for contemporary art are limited. Some cultural centers might host occasional exhibitions, but these are not typically regular tourist attractions.
Cultural Centers and Performance Venues:Cultural centers exist but public performances geared towards tourists are not a main feature of Kermanshah's cultural scene.
Special Exhibits and Programming:Occasional special exhibits might be announced locally. Check with your hotel or a local guide for current events.

Historical Sites Beyond the Iconic

Bisotun Complex:The complex includes the Achaemenid inscription, a Median fortress, a Parthian statue of Hercules, and Sasanian bridge and caravanserai remains.
Kangavar (Anahita Temple):Approximately 80 km east of Kermanshah. These are remains of a large classical-style stone structure thought to be a temple focused on the goddess Anahita.
Tekyeh Moaven ol-Molk:AN impressive Qajar-era (19th-early 20th century) religious complex. It is famous for its intricate tilework depicting scenes from Islamic history, mythology, and pre-Islamic epics.
Tekyeh Biglarbeygi:Another Qajar-era Tekyeh featuring beautiful mirror work and elaborate stucco decoration. It also houses a calligraphy museum, showcasing exquisite instances of Persian script.

Architectural & Religious Heritage

Traditional Bazaar of Kermanshah:
Wander through its lanes to experience traditional commerce and architecture.
Jameh Mosque of Kermanshah:
A prominent mosque in the city, offering a place for prayer and architectural interest.
Holy Defense Museum:
Dedicated to the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), which heavily impacted Kermanshah Province. The museum displays artifacts, photographs, and narratives from the war, offering a poignant look at this recent history.
Ganj Dareh:
A significant Neolithic archaeological site (around 10,000 years old) in the Harsin area, famous for some of the earliest evidence of goat domestication.
Malek-e Tavalus (Old Bridge):
The remains of an ancient bridge near Kermanshah city. It possesses a less-visited historical site that offers a glimpse into past engineering and infrastructure.

Natural Attractions of Kermanshah

While famous for its history, Kermanshah also has opportunities to appreciate natural beauty, especially within the Zagros Mountains.

Parks and Scenic Views

Parau Park
A popular recreational area within the city, offering green spaces for relaxation and family outings.
Khosrow Park
Located near Taq-e Bostan, this park has green areas and pleasant views, complementing a visit to the historical reliefs.
Mount Parau
The highest are highest in the Parau mountain range, part of the Zagros, located near Kermanshah city. It offers stunning scenic views and various hiking opportunities.

Zagros Mountain Scenery
The entire Zagros mountain range has dramatic landscapes, especially in spring with lush greenery and wildflowers. Scenic drives through these locations are rewarding.
Wildlife Viewing
No specific wildlife viewing areas are designated for tourists near Kermanshah city. Wildlife is present in the Zagros, but requires specialized expeditions and local knowledge.
Natural Rock formations
Ghar-e Parau (Parau Cave): Known as the "Everest of Caves" due to its depth. This is a very deep and challenging cave system, suitable only for expert cavers.

Viewing Bisotun

The inscription sits high on the cliff; Binoculars are recommended for viewing details clearly.

Photography Tips

The best time for photography is morning or late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun.

Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the various components of the site involves considerable walking.

Less Crowded Times and Secret Viewpoints

Plan your visits on weekdays (Saturday-Wednesday) and outside of Iranian public holidays (especially Nowruz in late March), when domestic tourism peaks. Early morning visits are generally best for both sites.

Avoid Peak Holidays:Iranian public holidays, especially Nowruz (late March), bring high domestic tourism.
Early Morning Visits:These times are generally best for both Taq-e Bostan and Bisotun to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
Bisotun Viewpoints:Look into discovering views from the lower parts of the complex to appreciate the monumental scale of the inscription and the surrounding landscape.

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path in Kermanshah

For those seeking unique and less-visited sites, Kermanshah Province holds several hidden gems.

Quri Qaleh Cave

Situated in Paveh county, this is one of the largest water caves in the Middle East. It boasts impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Visitor Access

A section of the cave is accessible to everyone.
Offers an intriguing natural wonder that combines adventure with geological beauty.

This site is accessible for general tourists.

Sarpol-e Zahab Anubanini Relief

Located further west in the province, this place features one of the oldest rock reliefs in Iran, dating to the Lullubi kingdom (c. 23rd century BCE).

Historical Significance

It depicts a victorious ruler from an ancient kingdom.
Offers a rewarding experience for extensive history enthusiasts.

Requires dedicated travel to reach this historically significant site.

Malek-e Tavalus Old Bridge

These are the remains of an ancient bridge near Kermanshah city. It has a less-visited historical site.

Historical Insight

It offers a glimpse into past engineering and infrastructure.
Located away from the main tourist crowds.

A peaceful spot for people interested in less-explored historical remnants.

Archaeological Sites Access

Ganj Dareh

This significant Neolithic archaeological site requires specialized arrangements for general tourists due to its remote location and sensitive nature.

Waterways and Lakes

Kermanshah Province is landlocked and has without beaches. Some small rivers and seasonal waterfalls exist in mountainous areas, serving localized natural beauty, but no large lakes.

Industrial Heritage

There are no significant industrial heritage sites currently open for tourism in the province.

Additional Tips for Exploration

Consider hiring a local guide for insights into the historical and cultural contexts of these sites. This can enrich your visit significantly, especially for less-documented locations.

Famous Landmarks in Kermanshah