Hamadan
Introduction
Nestled within a mountainous landscape in western Iran, Hamadan serves as the capital of its namesake province, county, and district. You will find this city situated in the Central District, where it stands as a significant regional hub.
Before you go
Before you arrive in Hamadan, ensure you are aware of the local emergency contact numbers. You can reach the police by dialing 110, the fire department at 125, and emergency medical services at 115. If you require road-based emergency medical assistance, you may use either 115 or 112.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air via a daily flight departing from Tehran to Hamadan International Airport. Alternatively, you can travel by train, which offers a daily service from Mashad through the capital, arriving at the railway station located northeast of the city center.
For those traveling by road, you can find bus services connecting Hamadan to Tehran and other major cities.
Getting around
Information regarding transportation and local transit options within the city is not currently available.
Where to stay
You can choose between different styles of accommodation depending on your preference for atmosphere and location. For those seeking a professional environment, you can stay at a business hotel situated north of the city centre.
Alternatively, you can opt for a modern apartment-type hotel featuring new furnishings and an on-site restaurant to suit your needs.
Food & drink
No specific information regarding local food or drink is available for this destination.
What to see and do
Explore the historical depth of the region by visiting the Ganjnameh, an ancient inscription carved into granite featuring sections ordered by Darius I and Xerxes I. You can visit the Tomb of Baba Taher, the Alavian Cupola, or the Hamedan Stone Lion. For those interested in religious history, you can visit the Tomb of Esther and Mordechai, a significant pilgrimage site, or the Stephen Gregory Church. Cultural landmarks like the Nazari House and Mohammadi House offer local character, while the excavated ancient city of Ekbatana provides a glimpse into the past.
Experience the natural beauty and scientific interest of the area through these sites:
- Explore the Ali Sadr Cave to the north, where you can tour the water cave by pedal boat.
- Visit the Estakhr-e Abbas Abad for a view of the city from an over-the-hill lake.
- View the taxidermic collection of animals and insects at the Hamedan Museum of Natural History, which also features an aquarium and live fish tanks.
- Visit Avicenna's Mausoleum, which includes a museum dedicated to the Persian polymath.
When to go
You will experience a stark contrast between seasons in Hamadan, as the region transitions directly from snowy winters to hot, dry summers. During the winter and early spring, you can expect heavy snowfall that often persists for several weeks, accompanied by temperatures that drop well below freezing.
When you visit during the summer months, you will encounter mostly sunny conditions and intense heat with very little precipitation.
Three days in Hamadan
Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the Central District. You can visit the Hamedan Museum to see its natural history exhibits or view the Alavian Cupola and the Hamedan Stone Lion.
Day two, travel toward the outskirts to experience the cultural atmosphere of the area. You can visit the Nazari House or the Mohammadi House, and find your way to the site of the Tomb of Darius and Xerxes at Ganjnameh.
Day three, you can explore the local landmarks including the Esther and Mordechai sites or see the Stephen Gregory Church. You might also visit the Alavian Cupola or the nearby Estakhr.