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How to Get to Kermanshah

How to Get to Kermanshah

Kermanshah Kermanshah Province, Iran Travel Guide

Air Travel to Kermanshah

Airports & Airlines

Kermanshah Shahid Ashrafi Airport (KSH) is the main airport. It mainly handles domestic flights.

Details

  • Airlines: Iran Air, Mahan Air, Aseman Airlines, Zagros Airlines, Kish Air, Qeshm Air.
  • Main Route: KSH to Tehran Mehrabad International Airport (THR) (Tehran's domestic airport).
  • International Flights: No direct international flights to KSH from major global hubs.

Airport Transfers & Facilities

KSH is a smaller domestic airport. Facilities are basic.

Transfers

  • Taxi: Main and most convenient option. Readily available outside terminal. Fares often fixed or negotiated.
  • Ride-sharing: Snapp and Tap30 operate from KSH. Transparent pricing. Local SIM card needed.
  • Public Bus: Limited or non-existent direct public bus service to city center.

Flight Availability

Domestic flight prices are relatively stable. Prices increase around national holidays (Nowruz) and high travel seasons (summer). Booking in advance is recommended.

International Connection

International travelers fly into Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). From IKA, a domestic flight (typically with a transfer to THR) to KSH, or travel by land.

Airport Facilities

KSH has a few small shops, cafes, and prayer rooms. Taxi stands are outside. Currency exchange and SIM card facilities may be limited. Handle these needs in the city.

Flight Resources

Flight Deals

Car Rental

Airline Information

Iran Air

One of the main Iranian airlines operating domestic flights to KSH.

Mahan Air

A prominent private Iranian airline serving Kermanshah.

Aseman Airlines

Another Iranian carrier with directions to Kermanshah Shahid Ashrafi Airport.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Kermanshah connects to the Iranian railway network.

Details

  • Kermanshah Railway Station: Direct train services connect Kermanshah to Tehran.
  • Journey Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours, a comfortable and picturesque method to travel.
  • Booking: In advance, especially for popular routes or during holidays, is advisable.

Long-Distance Bus

Iran has an excellent and affordable long-distance bus network.

Details

  • Kermanshah has a central bus terminal (Terminal-e Kermanshah).
  • Frequent connections to most major cities across the country (Tehran, Hamadan, Isfahan, Shiraz).
  • "VIP" buses offer more spacious seating, fewer passengers, snacks, and water.

Self-Driving

Self-driving is not recommended for most international tourists.

Considerations

  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is by law required.
  • Traffic, especially in cities, is chaotic and aggressive.
  • Road signs are mainly in Persian.

Road Safety

Iran has a relatively high rate of road accidents.

Advice

  • Main inter-city roads are generally well-maintained. Rural roads vary.
  • Drivers often exceed speed limits, traffic laws loosely observed.
  • Avoid night driving on rural roads due to poor lighting and unexpected obstacles.

Border Crossing Iraq

  • Kermanshah Province shares a border with Iraq.
  • Main official crossing: Parvizkhan/Khanaqin, mainly for commercial goods.
  • Generally not recommended or easily accessible for international tourists.
  • Security, logistical complexities, and potential visa issues exist.
  • Most tourists enter and exit Iran via international airports.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable. Kermanshah Province is landlocked.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Plan your departure with the same care as your arrival for a smooth transition.

Timing Recommendations

  • Domestic Flights (from KSH): Arrive at KSH at least 1 to 1.5 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Train/Bus: Arrive at station 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • International Departure (from IKA, Tehran): Allow at least 3 hours for security, immigration, queues.

Airport & Station Facilities

Basic services are available for departing travelers.

Details

  • Kermanshah Shahid Ashrafi Airport (KSH): Basic facilities, waiting area, a few small shops/cafes.
  • Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA): Extensive services, duty-free shops, currency exchange, lounges.
  • Exit Fees or Taxes: Iranian citizens pay departure tax. Foreign tourists usually do not. Verify with airline/tour operator.

Smooth Departure

Early arrival at airports for security and immigration. Essential for stress-free travel.

Tax Verification

Confirm any potential exit fees with your airline or tour operator before your international departure.

Travel Awareness

Stay informed about local transportation schedules, especially during holidays, to avoid delays.

Getting Around Kermanshah

Public Transit Systems

Kermanshah city does not have a metro or tram system. Buses are the main form of public transportation.

Bus Details

  • Extensive network covers most urban areas, connecting major squares and commercial centers.
  • Bus routes generally displayed at bus stops, but information mainly appears in Persian.
  • Fares are extremely inexpensive, paid using a rechargeable "Kermanshah Card" or "City Card."

Public Transit Efficiency

Deciphering bus routes can be challenging without Persian language skills.

Tips

  • Learn basic Persian phrases for asking directions ("Kojast?" - Where is...?).
  • Use a Translation app to assist with communication.
  • Consider using ride-sharing apps (Snapp/Tap30) to identify bus routes, even if you take the bus.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Licensed Taxis

Official, licensed taxis are typically yellow or green. Drivers often would rather negotiate fares. Agree on fare before starting journey. Cash only.

Shared Taxis Savari

Common for set routes between main squares. Drivers call out destinations. Flag down on street. Share with 2-3 passengers. Economical.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Snapp and Tap30 are popular. Similar to Uber, non-negotiable prices, payment without cash options (pre-loaded credit), GPS tracking. Local SIM card needed.

Accessibility Information

Public transportation infrastructure in Kermanshah has limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges. Buses typically lack ramps or designated spaces for wheelchairs.