Introducing Rasht
Rapidly expanding Rasht is the capital of Gilan province and by far the largest city of the Shomal (Caspian littoral) region. Gilan has had extended periods of independence and the lispy local Gilaki dialect remains noticeably distinct from Farsi, its reversed adjective–noun order causing much amusement for other Iranians.
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Although 15km inland, Rasht is a popular weekend and holiday destination for Tehranis, for whom the greatest attraction is its ‘refreshing’ climate (ie lots of rain). It’s mildly amusing to watch local tourists driving with arms outstretched to feel the drops. But year-round downpours and steaming summer humidity don’t otherwise appeal to most foreign tourists.
The city has precious little in the way of historical buildings, but Rasht is a useful transport hub from which to visit the lush mountain forests, rice paddies and thatched-house villages of the emerald-green Gilan hinterland, most famously at Masuleh. It’s also a great place to taste the garlic-stoked, vegetable-rich Gilan cuisine.
Last updated: Oct 1, 2008
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: Latest travel option to Tehran from Astara
by moji 10 September 2011
Hi It takes about 7 hours by bus - 2.5 to Rasht and about 4 hours to Tehran. it takes less than 6 by car. Of course consider the traffi…
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Latest travel option to Tehran from Astara
by rejdegroot 10 September 2011
Hi guys, Crossing the border into Iran from Azerbaijan at Astara, what would be the latest time to reasonably get to Tehran from there…
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Current prices for accommodation and transport in Iran
by umarket 25 August 2011
My husband and I are looking to extend our time in Iran for a few days after a group tour. We are Americans, so I understand this means…
Hotels & Hostels in Rasht
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Hotel Bahar
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