Razavi Khorasan

Mashhad

Iran's holiest city and spiritual heart of Shia Islam

27°C · ClearBest season: April-May and September-October for mild weather
Mashhad
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Mashhad — "place of martyrdom" — is Iran's second-largest city and its holiest, set in northeastern Khorasan on the old Silk Road. It grew around the shrine of Imam Reza, the 8th Shia Imam, today the vast Haram-e Razavi complex that draws more pilgrims than almost anywhere in the Islamic world. Beyond the shrine, Mashhad is the gateway to Khorasan's saffron and turquoise country and to the tombs of Ferdowsi and Nader Shah, fringed by bustling bazaars and mountain parks.

Next 5 days

Mon
37°
23°
Tue
36°
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Wed
35°
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Thu
33°
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Fri
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Top places to see

  1. 1

    Haram-e Razavi (Imam Reza Shrine)

    The breathtaking shrine complex housing Imam Reza's tomb Largest mosque in the world by area; center of Shia pilgrimage

  2. 2

    Goharshad Mosque

    Timurid-era mosque within Haram-e Razavi complex Masterpiece of Islamic architecture with exquisite tilework

  3. 3

    Mashhad Bazaar

    Vast traditional marketplace surrounding the shrine Best place for religious souvenirs and saffron shopping

  4. 4

    Tomb of Nader Shah

    Memorial to the 18th-century Persian conqueror Striking modern design honors the 'Napoleon of Persia'

  5. 5

    Kuh-e Sangi Park

    Scenic hillside park with city views Popular local escape with walking trails and teahouses

  6. 6

    Ferdowsi Tomb

    Monument to Persia's epic poet Houses Shahnameh manuscripts; national cultural symbol

  7. 7

    Astan Quds Razavi Museum

    Islamic art and shrine treasures Exceptional Quran collection and historical artifacts

  8. 8

    Torqabeh

    Mountain resort area Cool summer retreat with hiking and traditional restaurants

On the map

Food

Sholeh MashhadiSaffron Ice CreamZereshk Polo
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