Kermanshah Kermanshah Province, Iran Travel Guide
The province of Kermanshah, and its capital city bearing the same name, beckons those who seek authenticity. Imagine standing before bas-reliefs etched into cliffs by Sasanian kings, picturing ancient ceremonies and royal hunts. Picture yourself wandering through bustling covered markets, the air filled with the scent of condiments and the sound of local dialects. Consider tasting unique regional dishes, savoring flavors developed over centuries. Kermanshah goes beyond sights; it fosters connection with Iran's major historical narrative and persistent cultural spirit. This region is a special charm for those ready to explore its depths.
International credit and debit cards do not function in Iran due to sanctions; all visitors carry sufficient cash in UNITED states dollars or EUR for exchange.
The local currency is the Iranian Rial, though prices are almost universally quoted in Toman (1 Toman = 10 Rials). Women adhere to the Islamic dress code, wearing a headscarf and modest, loose-fitting clothing in public. Men wear long trousers.
Kermanshah Province lies in the west of Iran, nestled within the expansive Zagros Mountain range. This its position on the map shapes its identity, from its climate to its historical role as a gateway between the Iranian plateau and Mesopotamia. The capital city, Kermanshah, sits at an elevation roughly 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) above sea level. The province’s terrain varies: high mountain peaks, deep valleys, fertile plains watered by seasonal rivers.
Kermanshah's history stretches back into prehistory, with evidence of people settlement from the Neolithic period. The region consistently held a prominent place in the narrative of ancient Persia, acting as a strategic and cultural hub for successive empires. Its fertile plains and mountain passes made it coveted territory and a route for trade and military campaigns. The city and its surroundings bear the indelible marks of these powerful civilizations, a concrete connection to a storied past.
Evidence of Neolithic human settlement.
King Darius I the Great's monumental trilingual inscription at Bisotun.
Lavish rock reliefs at Taq-e Bostan depicting royal life.
New cultural influences, continued status as a provincial center.
Development of religious complexes and the Traditional Bazaar.
The Zagros Mountains dominate the provincial landscape, forming a natural barrier and a source of the two resources and strategic importance throughout history. These mountains are an integral part of the region’s ecology and culture. Oak forests dot the lower slopes, while higher elevations are often barren or blanketed in alpine pastures.
Kermanshah is bordered by Kurdistan to the north, Hamadan in an easterly direction, Lorestan to the southeast, and Ilam to the south. To the west, it shares a long border with Iraq. This proximity to the border fosters strong Kurdish ties across the international boundary.
The varied topography leads to microclimates within the province, with highland regions experiencing harsher winters and cooler summers than the central plains. Numerous rivers and springs, fed by mountain snowmelt, create pockets of lushness.
Prepare for shifts in elevation and terrain when planning day trips from the city. Roads inup to the mountainous areas offer stunning views but require careful driving.
Kermanshah has a distinct flavor of Iran. A destination where ancient history dominates the landscape and a strong, welcoming Kurdish culture defines human interaction. This snapshot summarises what makes Kermanshah a compelling choice for travelers seeking depth and authenticity.
Your visit undoubtedly centers around its world-renowned historical sites. Taq-e Bostan, with its magnificent Sasanian rock reliefs, sits just outside the city, easy to access. Bisotun, an UNESCO World Heritage site, has the colossal inscription of Darius the Great, a monument of global historical importance.
The city is surrounded by the magnificent Zagros Mountains, providing scenic scenic outlooks and opportunities for outdoor activities.
A lively culture expressed through music, dance, and traditional attire, notably evident during local festivals and gatherings.
The Traditional Bazaar of Kermanshah serves as the beating heart of the city's commercial and social life.
Kermanshah's cuisine has a regional twist on Persian cooking, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes.
