Kashan, one of the most cultural cities of Iran, is located in northwest Esfahan. Some historiographers believe that this city, also known as Kasian, Kahfeshan and Kashian in ancient times, is the first civilized city of Iran and even the world.( Around 7000 years antiquity.)
There is a famous festival in Kashan, named ‘Golab-Giri’ (festival of rose) which takes place from mid-May to mid-June in Qamsar, Niasar, Kashan every year. This ceremony is worth experiencing!
Kashan consists of many tourist attractions like Tabatabaei house, Tape Sialk, Jameh mosque of Kashan, etc.
We will describe some other tourist sites in Kashan in brief!
1. Bagh-e Fin (Fin Garden):
You will find this wonderful garden in the north of the city. It was built in Safavid-era with a special water feature and pool architecture.
This complex includes a bathhouse in which Amir Kabir, the powerful prime minister of Iran, was murdered by Naser-Al-Din shah Qajar. An anthropology museum exists inside the bathroom, where you will enjoy both the Iranian culture and architecture. There is also a coffee shop at the back of the garden, a nice place to relax and appreciate the beauties. This heaven-like garden is a must-visit site in Kashan!
2. Agha Bozorg mosque
It is one of the best examples of traditional Persian architecture, famous for its symmetric patterns. This great historical mosque was built in three story house in late 18th century. It includes a school(Madrassa) for Islamic study. Inside the first courtyard, there is the second one with a garden and a fountain.
Note:
The entry is free!
Do not forget to bring your camera for eye catching pictures at sunset.
3.Boroujerdi house
A delightful courtyard house which was built in Qajar-era, mid 19th century. It is constructed in two parts: an extraordinary domed “Biruni” (exterior, the public salon) and “Andaruni” (interior, the private area) with a large nice garden and a fountain. There exist unusual wind towers made of stone and brick. The house is well known for its elaborate decoration with glass and mirror work, colorful ties, and decorative arches. Boroujerdi house was announced as the premier selection of UNESCO for the popularity of tourist attractions in 2015 and 2016.
Half desert, half mountain!
Kashan is divided into two parts, mountains in the western side and desert in the east. The mountainous side is located near two of the highest peaks of Karkas chain in the southwest and Mt. Ardahaal, also known as Damavand of Kashan, in the west of the city.
In the eastern side, the city opens up to a central desert in Iran, Maranjab. There exists a caravansary near the Namak (salt) lake in the middle of the desert.
As you see, depending on your location, you can experience different natural conditions in Kashan!
When to visit Kashan?
Due to the weather, it is better to travel there in late September to mid-November or in spring after Nowruz vacations.
Transportation
Different safe and comfortable transportation systems are available in Kashan.
a. Train station
It is located in the northeast of the city. There are daily trains to Isfahan and Tehran: four trains to Tehran and one to Esfahan.
b. Bus terminal
The main terminal is available in the north. The buses provide Tehran, Esfahan and Shiraz rides.
Note: You can use the buses from Yazd, too. But you should alight at the highway and reach Kashan by taxies. (since they do not enter the city.)
c. Spot and snap
They are Uber-like systems. Download their android/iOS application to ease your trip.
Note: Taxies are also available everywhere.