Things to do in Zagros Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Zagros Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient monuments carved into the Zagros landscape, from royal reliefs to hilltop castles.
Taq-e Bostan
Sassanian rock reliefs carved into limestone cliffs, set against dramatic mountain scenery near Kermanshah.
Behistun Inscription (Bisotun)
Massive cuneiform inscription on a cliff face detailing Darius the Great’s campaigns, a UNESCO site.
Chogha Zanbil
Elamite ziggurat complex near Susa, one of Iran’s best-preserved ancient temple sites.
Falak-ol-Aflak Castle
Hilltop fortress dominating Khorramabad with panoramic views and centuries of history.
Museums
Delve into the Zagros region’s history and archaeology through its local museums.
Kermanshah Museum
Regional artifacts spanning millennia from the Zagros and surrounding areas.
Lorestan Museum
Exhibits on Lorestan’s ancient cultures, archaeology, and traditional crafts.
Susa Museum
Archaeological collections from Susa and the greater Elamite civilization.
Ahvaz Archaeological Museum
Artifacts from Khuzestan’s long history, including Sassanian and Elamite pieces.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites from mosques to shrines dot the Zagros towns.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Zagros Mountains. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Protective landscapes and scenic mountains offer opportunities for hiking and picnics.
Dena National Park
An expansive high-altitude park spanning parts of Isfahan and Kohgiluyeh & Boyer-Ahmad with alpine vistas.
Oshtorankuh Protected Area
Protected mountain area around Oshtorankuh offering dramatic ridges and hiking routes.
Neighborhoods
Quaint quarters reflect local life around Zagros towns.
Khorramabad Old City
Historic quarters with traditional houses, stair-stepped lanes, and local crafts.
Shushtar Old Town
Ancient lanes and market corners that sit near the Shushtar’s historic hydraulic sites.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to enjoy the Zagros.
Hike the Oshtorankuh foothills
Low-cost day hike through pine forests with scenic valley views.
Scenic drive along the Dena massif
A leisurely drive with sweeping mountain panoramas.
Picnic by the Dez River
Relaxing riverside spots near Shushtar for a peaceful picnic.
Stargaze under Zagros skies
Clear rural nights offer excellent stargazing opportunities.
Gastronomy
Taste the flavors of the Zagros highlands.
Bakhtiari lamb kebab
Smoky, tender lamb skewers with regional herbs.
Ghormeh Sabzi
Herb-rich lamb or beef stew with beans and tangy dried lime.
Kabab koobideh
Classic minced-meat kebab, perfectly paired with saffron rice.
Nightlife
Evenings in Zagros towns offer teahouses, music, and laid-back venues.
Evening teahouses with Bakhtiari folk music
Relax in local teahouses while listening to traditional tunes.
Local village music performances
Seasonal performances showcasing regional songs and dances.
Night markets in Shushtar
Stroll through small markets offering snacks, crafts, and local vibes.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and traditional showcases bring local stories to life.
Local theatre in Khorramabad
Small-scale plays and performances drawn from regional life.
Traditional storytelling evenings
Narrators share legends and histories from the Zagros towns.
Bakhtiari dance performances
Energetic dances that celebrate seasonal and nomadic heritage.
Sports
Outdoor adventures in the mountains.
Hiking in Oshtorankuh
Multi-day or day hikes through forested slopes and ridges.
Rock climbing near Taq-e Bostan
Vertical challenges on nearby canyon walls and cliffs.
White-water rafting on the Dez River
Adventurous rafting with rapids and scenic river views.
Off the Track
Hidden experiences with locals and offbeat itineraries for deeper immersion.
Homestay with a Bakhtiari nomad family
Experience nomadic hospitality and seasonal routines first-hand.
Visit remote Zagros villages
Explore isolated settlements high in the mountains.
Cave exploration in Zagros foothills
Discover limestone caverns and natural formations away from crowds.