Things To Do
in Abarkūh
Abarkūh is a historic oasis city in Yazd Province, Iran, nestled in a desert plain along ancient trade routes. It is famed for the centuries-old Sarv-e Abarkūh cypress tree and its well-preserved wind towers and adobe architecture. The town serves as a quiet gateway to desert scenery, qanat irrigation, and traditional bazaars where locals trade dates, pistachios, and spices.
Visitors can experience warm hospitality, rural life, and striking twilight skies just outside the city walls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historical Jame Mosque of Abarkuh, where intricate tile work and ancient architecture create a stunning visual experience. As the sun rises, the soft light enhances the beauty of the mosque’s minarets and courtyard. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys of the historic center, absorbing the local vibe and architecture.
In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional Persian lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes such as kebab and khoresh. After your meal, visit the Agha Bozorg House, a beautiful example of Qajar-era architecture, where you can explore its serene courtyards and ornate plasterwork. Conclude the afternoon by visiting the local bazaar, where artisans display handmade crafts and local produce.
As evening sets in, enjoy a sunset walk at the nearby Abarkuh Cypress, one of the oldest living trees in the world, which is over 4,000 years old. The surrounding area provides a tranquil setting for reflection and photography as the sun dips below the horizon. For dinner, indulge in a meal at a traditional restaurant featuring live music, where you can experience local hospitality.
Begin your morning at the Abarkuh Cultural Heritage Museum, where you can explore a collection of artifacts that tell the story of the region's rich history. Engage with local artisans who often showcase their crafts in the museum, providing insight into traditional Iranian art forms. Spend time appreciating the intricate details of handwoven carpets and pottery.
After a morning of culture, head to a nearby workshop to participate in a hands-on pottery-making class, guided by a skilled artisan. This immersive experience allows you to create your own piece of art while learning about the significance of pottery in Persian culture. For lunch, savor local specialties at a nearby café, where the atmosphere is filled with artistic inspiration.
In the evening, join a cultural performance showcasing traditional Persian music and dance at a local venue. The vibrant rhythms and melodies will immerse you in the local culture and provide a unique evening entertainment experience. Conclude your day with a relaxed stroll through the town square, where you can enjoy the lively ambiance and perhaps grab a sweet treat from a local vendor.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $18-35 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient history and the iconic Sarv-e Abarkūh
- Tranquil atmosphere away from crowds
- Excellent value for money and hospitality
- Very limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Longer distances to major cities and airports
- Extremely hot summers can be challenging
- "سلام" - Hello
- "متشکرم" - Thank you
- "بله" - Yes
- "نه" - No
- "من گرسنهام" - I am hungry
- "کجا دستشویی است؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Abarkūh
Visit one of these nice places.
A 4,000- to 5,000-year-old cypress tree set against the desert, a quintessential subject for dramatic landscape photography.
Narrow alleys, adobe houses, and traditional windcatchers offer classic Yazdi architectural charm.
Golden dunes and expansive skies provide striking silhouettes and wide-angled desert panoramas.
Food in Abarkūh
Abarkūh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple Iranian kebab of minced beef or lamb grilled on skewers, typically served with saffron rice, grilled tomato, and sumac.
Must-Try!
A hearty noodle and herb soup with legumes, often finished with fried onions and mint.
A fragrant saffron rice pudding, topped with cinnamon and pistachios, a Yazdi specialty.
A traditional Yazdi almond-filled pastry dusted with powdered sugar.
Lentil stew with meat and dried lemon, commonly enjoyed with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market selling dried fruits, nuts, saffron, herbs, and seasonal produce; try roasted nuts and fresh juice.
Small stalls offer saffron ice cream, warm naan, and simple fried snacks in the evening.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered in public; headscarves for women in mosques and traditional areas.
It is common to accept tea or water offered by strangers; polite refusals are appreciated if you are not thirsty.
Ask permission before taking portraits of people; avoid photographing military or religious sites without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Abarkūh
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (5-10%) are appreciated for good service; in some places service is included, check the bill.
Cash (Iranian Rial or Toman) is widely used; many smaller shops do not accept credit cards; larger hotels and some restaurants may accept cards or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming desert flora; ideal for hikes and outdoor photography early morning.
Extremely hot; plan activities for dawn and dusk; carry plenty of water and sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; great for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to cold nights; desert mornings can be frosty; layer clothing and be prepared for temperature swings.
Abarkūh at Night
Hiking in Abarkūh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle desert trails offering expansive views and photo opportunities at golden hour.
Leisurely hikes through date-palm groves along qanat canals.
Airports
How to reach Abarkūh by plane.
The closest major airport; serves domestic and limited international flights; about 150-200 km from Abarkūh.
Larger international airport farther away but with more flight options.
Regional hub with frequent connections; additional option for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Persian-speaking residents; Shia Muslim with minority rural communities and migrant workers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Iran; expect local matches and enthusiastic fans.
Camel rides and dune-related activities often offered by desert tour guides in surrounding areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Abarkūh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tell servers you are vegetarian; many dishes can be prepared without meat. Look for eggplant, tomato-based stews, and bean dishes.
Vegetarian options are available; confirm dairy and butter use; request oil instead of animal-based fats.