Things To Do
in Lowshān
Lowshān is a small historic town in Iran’s Qazvin Province, perched in the foothills of the Alborz mountains. Its narrow lanes wind between whitewashed houses with wooden balconies, offering a calm, authentic pace of life. The town centers around a modest bazaar, orchards, and heritage sites that reflect a blend of Persian culture and local traditions.
Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality and easy access to surrounding villages, viewpoints, and seasonal markets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historic ruins of Shahr-e Sukhteh, an ancient city that dates back to 3200 BC. Wander through the remnants of this once-thriving metropolis while marveling at the sophisticated drainage and urban planning systems of the time. Capture stunning photographs of the archaeological site against the backdrop of the rising sun.
After an immersive morning, enjoy a traditional Persian lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers a local twist on classic dishes. Post-lunch, venture to the nearby Ziggurat of Choga Zanbil to admire its towering structure and learn about its historical significance in ancient Elamite culture. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens surrounding the site to appreciate its mesmerizing beauty.
As the sun sets, head back to Lowshān and relax at a local café where you can sip on fresh Persian tea. Engage in conversations with locals who are eager to share stories about their rich culture and heritage. End your evening by enjoying a sumptuous dinner of grilled kebabs while sitting under the starry sky, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the Lowshān Bazaar, where the vibrant colors and scents of spices fill the air. Interact with local artisans and shop for handicrafts while learning about the traditional skills that have been passed down through generations. Enjoy a delightful breakfast of fresh bread and local cheese at one of the small eateries tucked away within the bazaar.
After exploring the bazaar, head to the nearby Qaleh-ye Gahavani, a stunning fort that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Take time to explore the fort's architecture and gain insights into its history as a strategic military site. Enjoy a leisurely packed lunch surrounded by the breath-taking scenery.
Return to Lowshān and stroll along the banks of the riverside parks as the cool evening breeze begins to settle in. Participate in a traditional dance performance if available, where local musicians play traditional instruments. Cap off your evening with a hearty meal featuring regional specialties while listening to folk stories from the older generation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Basic lunch in a mid-range restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛏️One night's stay in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚊Local transportation (1-day use) | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water or soft drink | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with authentic Persian character
- Warm hospitality and nearby nature for day trips
- Limited nightlife and some services are basic
- Seasonal crowds near markets during holidays
- "سلام" - Hello
- "متشکرم" - Thank you
- "لطفاً" - Please
- "قیمت چقدر است؟" - How much does it cost?
- "آنجا کجا است؟" - Where is this place?
Places to Visit in Lowshān
Visit one of these nice places.
Morning light in the Grand Bazaar creates dramatic shadows across old archways and shop fronts.
Panoramic overlook of the town and surrounding hills, ideal for wide-angle shots and golden hour photography.
Quiet courtyard with traditional tilework and geometric patterns, great for detail shots and atmospheric portraits.
Food in Lowshān
Lowshān Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A herb-packed stew with lamb, kidney beans, and dried lime served over saffron rice.
Must-Try!
Herbed rice served with a fillet of fish, a classic Persian combination especially favored in cooler months.
Mineral-rich minced meat kebab grilled on skewers, commonly enjoyed with rice, grilled tomato, and sumac on the side.
Crispy, golden crust of fried rice that forms at the bottom of the pot, often served with stews or kebabs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market where you can buy dried fruits, herbs, spices, nuts, tea, and fresh produce; try roasted seeds and seasonal sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and rural areas.
A simple 'Salam' (hello) and 'Khodahafez' (goodbye) go a long way; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Lowshān
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in casual cafes. Round up the bill or leave a small tip (about 5-10%) in many places; in more formal restaurants, check if a service charge is included.
Cash in Iranian Rial is the most widely used method. Debit/credit cards are less commonly accepted in small towns; ATMs are common for cash withdrawal. Mobile payment apps are not universally available to travelers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming orchards; ideal for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Warm to hot days; plan early morning or late afternoon activities, stay hydrated, and seek shade in markets and cafes.
Cool, comfortable weather with clear skies; perfect for hikes and scenic photography of harvest landscapes.
Cold with potential for rain or light snow; layers are essential and some hillside trails may be slippery.
Lowshān at Night
Hiking in Lowshān
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic day hike with valley views and varying elevations, suitable for most hikers with basic gear.
Airports
How to reach Lowshān by plane.
Main international gateway serving the region; about 160-180 km by road to Lowshān.
Tehran’s historic airport serving domestic flights and some international routes; often used for onward travel to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Persian-speaking residents with rural communities nearby; Azeri and other minorities are present in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local fields and informal matches are common in parks and schools.
Traditional physical culture is part of community centers and cultural programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lowshān.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Iranian meals center on grains and vegetables; look for herb rice dishes (sabzi polo), bean stews, lentil soups, and eggplant-based dishes. Tell the server you don’t want meat or dairy if needed, and consider ordering vegetable stews or khoreshts labeled as vegetarian.