Things To Do
in Khowy

Khowy, a city in the West Azerbaijan province of Iran, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Nestled in a picturesque landscape, it offers visitors stunning views of surrounding mountains and fertile plains. The city is famous for its historical sites, including ancient mosques and traditional bazaars.

Khowy serves as an excellent base for exploring the beauty of northwestern Iran.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Historical Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Jameh Mosque of Khowy, known for its stunning architecture and intricate tile work.

afternoon
:

Explore the local bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and sample local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving authentic Iranian cuisine, followed by a leisurely stroll through the city center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby Mount Sahand for a morning hike, enjoying breathtaking views over the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the Khowy Museum to learn about the city’s history and cultural significance.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a traditional tea house experience, enjoying Persian tea and sweets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
$Meal at a mid-range restaurant8-15
🍵Cup of tea1
🏨Budget hotel per night20-40
🚌Local bus fare0.50
🍞Loaf of bread0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Language barrier for non-Farsi speakers.
  • Public transportation may not be as reliable.
  • "سلام" - Hello
  • "خداحافظ" - Goodbye
  • "لطفا" - Please
  • "متشکرم" - Thank you
  • "بله" - Yes

Places to Visit in Khowy

Visit one of these nice places.

Jameh Mosque

A beautiful example of Islamic architecture, perfect for capturing intricate details.

Mount Sahand

Stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys make for breathtaking landscape photography.

Khowy Bazaar

Vibrant market scenes and colorful displays of goods provide excellent photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khowy

Khowy offers a delightful array of local dishes and flavors that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Iran.

Khowy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebabs

Grilled meats served with rice and fresh herbs, a staple of Persian cuisine.

Must-Try!

Dolmeh

Stuffed grape leaves with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.

Ash Reshteh

A thick noodle soup made with herbs, legumes, and sometimes meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khowy Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.

Street Vendors

Various stalls selling snacks like saffron ice cream and roasted chestnuts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khowy experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach above 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) at night. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Wear conservative clothing, especially in religious sites.

Greetings

A handshake is common; however, it’s best to wait for a woman to extend her hand first.

Respect for Traditions

Always show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during religious festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Khowy is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places.

Tipping in Khowy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred; ensure you have Iranian rials, as credit cards are not widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot temperatures; stay hydrated and plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting.

Winter

Cold temperatures with possible snowfall in the mountains; ideal for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Khowy at Night

Khowy has a quiet nightlife, with a few tea houses and cafes staying open late. Locals often gather to enjoy tea and engage in conversation. There are no nightclubs, but occasional cultural events or music performances may occur.

Hiking in Khowy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Sahand Trail

A challenging trail that leads to the summit of Mount Sahand, offering breathtaking views.

Kandovan Village Trail

An easier hike that takes you to the ancient rock-carved village of Kandovan, known for its unique architecture.

Airports

How to reach Khowy by plane.

Tabriz International Airport

Located about 100 km from Khowy, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khowy is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic, as it can be busy in some areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Persians

The majority ethnic group, known for their rich culture and traditions.

Azerbaijanis

A significant minority in the region, adding to the cultural diversity of Khowy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is highly popular in Khowy, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is also a popular sport, with local competitions held regularly.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Khowy can be congested during peak hours, but it is generally manageable. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are readily available and affordable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khowy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Iranian cuisine has many vegetarian options, but it’s best to check with the chef.

Halal

All food served is halal, but be cautious with street food if you have specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Khowy are basic, with a few hospitals and clinics available. For serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to larger cities like Tabriz, where facilities are more advanced.

Discover Iran

Read more in our Iran 2025 Travel Guide.

Iran Travel Guide