Iran

The Islamic Republic of Iran has a land area of 1,648,195 km2 and is bordered by Iraq. Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The country has over 2,440 km of coastline in its southern region, about two-thirds of which faces the Persian Gulf with the reminder lying east of the Strait of Hormoz in the Gulf of Oman.

The human population is 77,189,669, with a natural annual increase of 2.01%.

MUST SEE ACTIVITIES

What one considers a "must see activity" depends on an individual's purpose in coming to Iran.

A person who wants to experience Iran`s geological diversities may have different desires and objectives than a person seeking to explore its cultural and historic wonders. With this in mind we can suggest to you some different highlights which you may consider when visiting Iran.

Iran`s three world heritage sites should not be missed. They are the ruins of the ancient Persian city of Persepolis near Shiraz; the Imam Square in Esfahan with its magnificent mosques and architecture; and the ancient pyramidal Temple of Chogha Zanbil in western Iran.

Other architectural jewels to consider is the Sheikh Safi Mausoleum in Ardabil, the spectacular ancient mud brick city of Bam and Takht-e-Soleiman in western Iran.

Two gardens that are very beautiful and serene are the Bagh-e Eram in Shiraz and the Bagh-e Fin in Kashan.

Don't pass up the colorful bazaars in Shiraz, Esfahan and Tabriz.
Also in Esfahan, the bridges and their teahouses are great attractions.
Getting lost in the narrow corridors and streets in Yazd is worth a day visit by itself.

If you want to observe the people in their day to day activities, there is no better way than explore the villages throughout the country.

Searching and finding one of the many nomadic groups such as Baktiaries, Baluchies or the Qashqaies is a unforgettable trip back in time.

For natural highlights, the Ali Sadr Caves near Hamadan and the mountain village of Masuleh near Rasht are definitely worth seeing.
The drive from Tehran to the Caspian Sea across the Alborz Mountain and into lush valleys and forests is a study in contrast.

Mount Damavand, the highest mountain in Iran, (5671m) is becoming a favorite with mountain climbers.

Mount Damavand and the 60 plus mountains in the Alborz above 4000 meters can be climbed by a fit person without special equipment.
Of course for you desert lovers the vast deserts of Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir are awaiting for you.