Rasht Top 10 Parks : Where to Relax, Play, and Explore
Rasht, one of the most beautiful cities in northern Iran, is renowned for its lush green spaces and mild climate. The city offers numerous parks that provide ideal settings for recreation, relaxation, and spending leisure time. Rasht’s parks are not only perfect for walking and exercising for locals but also offer tourists a chance to enjoy pleasant natural surroundings. In this article, we will introduce some of the best parks in Rasht.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly place for fun, outdoor exercise, or a peaceful escape in nature, this list will help you choose your next destination with ease.
Here, we’ll explore the top parks in Rasht and highlight the unique features of each.
10. Golsar Park – One of the Best Parks in Rasht
Golsar Park is a quiet and peaceful green space in the Golsar area of Rasht. Its prime location provides an ideal environment for relaxation and recreation. With its beautiful greenery, walking paths, benches, and gazebos, it is a perfect spot for spending leisure time in a calm atmosphere and pleasant weather.
One of Golsar Park’s main advantages is its location in one of the city’s most modern and low-traffic areas. This allows visitors to enjoy the park without the stress of crowds. Additionally, the park’s proximity to shopping centers, cafes, and popular fast-food restaurants makes it convenient to enjoy local amenities after a short walk or a relaxing break.
If you are seeking a place for leisure, walking, or simply enjoying nature, Golsar Park is undoubtedly one of Rasht’s top parks. Its beautiful greenery, peaceful environment, and easy access to nearby facilities make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
9. Keshavarz Park
Keshavarz Park is another one of the best parks in Rasht, offering expansive greenery and a serene environment, making it an excellent destination for leisure and sightseeing. Covering approximately 32,000 square meters, the park was once a neglected garden called Kochsefahani, which was renovated by Rasht’s municipality several years ago into one of the city’s most beautiful urban green spaces.
At first glance, Keshavarz Park may seem small, but descending its steps reveals its impressive size and stunning beauty. One of the park’s unique features is the varying levels in different sections, making it perfect for parkour enthusiasts and those who enjoy exercising in nature.
Keshavarz Park is equipped with a variety of recreational and public facilities, including ponds, fountains, art sculptures, public exercise equipment, children’s playgrounds, park benches, and restrooms. Another notable feature is its historic library, established in 1995, located at the park’s main entrance.
Located on Resalat Street, between the Estakhr and Rudbartan neighborhoods and adjacent to the Zarejoub River, Keshavarz Park is an ideal place for leisure, sports, or relaxation.
8. Salar Meshkat Park – A Blend of History and Nature
Salar Meshkat Park is one of Rasht’s oldest green spaces and was once the site of a traditional city icehouse. Recently renovated, the park now features walking paths, benches, and well-maintained greenery, creating a pleasant setting for leisure activities.
Located opposite Mofakher Park, it has become a popular meeting place for young people, while family presence is less common. One of the park’s highlights is a charming café set in a historic house, offering a calm and culturally rich environment for visitors.
With its lush greenery, pleasant climate, and well-planned amenities, Salar Meshkat Park is a delightful place to spend an hour or two, enjoying both natural beauty and traditional architecture.
7. Tohid Park
Tohid Park, on a regional scale, is undoubtedly one of the best parks in Rasht for play, exercise, relaxation, and leisure activities. Covering an area of 24,000 square meters, it is located in the Golsar neighborhood and offers facilities such as children’s playgrounds and sports equipment.
Tohid Park stretches along the Tohid River in Golsar, benefiting from an excellent climate due to its unique location. Its easy accessibility makes it an ideal destination for all age groups. Children can enjoy a safe and suitable environment for play, while the calm and pleasant surroundings make it one of the best spots for elderly visitors as well.
Additionally, Tohid Park regularly hosts various festivals and cultural events, which further enhance the charm and appeal of this green space.
6. Rasht Ladies’ Park – A Special Park for Women
Rasht Ladies’ Park is a unique and dedicated green space specifically designed for women. Situated in a quiet and peaceful neighborhood, this park provides a safe and comfortable environment where women can enjoy greenery and recreational facilities without worry. Its tranquil location away from urban hustle makes it perfect for relaxation, exercise, and leisure activities.
Besides its pleasant greenery, the park offers numerous amenities, including clean, well-maintained restrooms for visitors’ convenience. Seating areas are provided throughout the park, allowing women to relax with friends or family. There are also sports facilities designed for women to exercise in a safe and green environment, promoting health and fitness.
For anyone seeking a calm and suitable place for relaxation and exercise in Rasht, Rasht Ladies’ Park is undoubtedly one of the city’s best options.
5. Daneshjoo Park – One of the Best Parks in Rasht
Daneshjoo Park, located at the city’s entrance, spans over 70,000 square meters and is one of Rasht’s top parks. It is ideal for various activities, including play, exercise, and walking.
A standout feature of this park is its natural pond, perfect for recreational boating and fishing. Visitors are often drawn to the large and scenic pond, which covers approximately 230,000 square meters, for fishing or simply enjoying the view.
Walking alongside the tranquil pond provides a relaxing experience, attracting visitors at all times of the day. The park also offers well-designed public exercise equipment and limited recreational facilities for children to play safely. Benches throughout the park, especially around the pond, provide excellent spots for enjoying the surroundings. A central fountain, particularly in spring and summer evenings, creates a spectacular display of water and light, making Daneshjoo Park a prime location for leisure and recreation in Rasht.
4. Mofakhar Park – One of the Best Parks in Rasht
Mofakhar Park, previously known as Salar Garden or Chamarsara Garden, is one of the most beautiful parks in Rasht. Covering 73,000 square meters, the park is divided into two main sections. The first, known as Salar Meshkat, includes the main garden, a natural icehouse, and a spring. The second section, called Salar Park, is located directly opposite the main entrance and has its own unique attractions.
With its mature trees and peaceful environment, Mofakhar Park has become an ideal location for recreation and relaxation. Historically, the park served as a nursery for forest seedlings, and many locals still refer to it as Chamarsara Park.
Established in 1947, the park features large, impressive trees such as maple, ash, elm, and oak, alongside diverse plant species like mahonia, cadina, geranium, and camellia. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by long, beautiful pathways lined with tall trees, as well as wooden sculptures near the main entrance, adding to the park’s visual appeal.
Compared to busier parks, Mofakhar Park offers a quieter and more secluded environment, perfect for walking and enjoying nature. Nearby cafes also allow visitors to enjoy refreshments while spending time in this charming setting.
For those seeking a peaceful and beautiful spot in Rasht, Mofakhar Park is an excellent choice.
3. Mellat Park, Rasht – One of the Best Parks in the City
Mellat Park, covering approximately 12 hectares, is one of the oldest gardens in Rasht and was formerly known as Siyah-Bagh. Thanks to its prime location and diverse facilities, it has become one of the most popular recreational destinations among the best parks in Rasht.
Attractions in Mellat Park:
Traditional Gilani House: To the left of the park entrance, there is a traditional Gilani-style house, now serving as a tourism information center. This building hosts various festivals and cultural events, adding a charming touch to the park.
Analemmatic Sundial – Iran’s First Sundial: One of the park’s unique features is its analemmatic sundial, the first of its kind in Iran. When standing in the center, a person’s shadow indicates the exact time.
Aquarium: Previously, the park had an aquarium housing 680 species of fish, attracting many visitors. However, the aquarium is currently inactive.
Largest Musical Fountain in Iran: Mellat Park also features Iran’s largest musical fountain. The synchronized display of water, light, and music creates a visually stunning and relaxing atmosphere, drawing the attention of many visitors.
Cozy Café: In the heart of the park, “Saye” Café provides a pleasant environment and high-quality food, making it one of the city’s most popular cafés.
Facilities and Services:
Morning exercise area: Many residents choose this park for walking and exercise to start their day energetically.
6D Cinema: An exciting option for thrill-seekers.
Camping: 100 designated platforms allow visitors to set up tents and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Additional amenities: Prayer room, restrooms, parking, and a library.
With its natural beauty, modern amenities, and convenient location, Mellat Park is an ideal place for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy recreation.
2. Mohtasham Garden, Rasht – History and Beauty in Nature
Mohtasham Garden, built during the Qajar era by Akbar Khan Bigdeli, is one of Rasht’s historical and beautiful landmarks. Akbar Khan Bigdeli, a prominent figure during Naser al-Din Shah’s reign, established the garden as a tranquil and pleasant retreat. Its ancient trees and lush gardens make it one of the most attractive natural sites in Rasht.
After Akbar Khan’s death, the garden was inherited by his daughter. Following her marriage to Sadegh Khan Akbar Mohtasham-ol-Molk, it became known as Mohtasham Garden. During Reza Shah’s reign, due to the family’s debts to the government, the garden was transferred to public ownership, making it accessible to everyone.
Highlights:
Kolah Farangi Mansion: Located in a corner of the park, this unique mansion draws attention for its distinctive architecture and has become a symbol of Rasht.
Facilities:
Sports grounds, children’s playground, wooden benches for relaxation, and restrooms provide a comfortable environment for visitors.
Mohtasham Garden is not only a place for leisure but also a historically rich park, appealing to both history enthusiasts and those seeking peace amidst nature.
1. Sabzeh Meydan, Rasht – One of the Best Parks in the City
Sabzeh Meydan is one of Rasht’s oldest and most famous historic squares, dating back to Naser al-Din Shah’s era. Covering approximately 29,700 square meters, it is one of the city’s busiest spots. Connected to main streets on all four sides, its greenery and trees add charm to the area. A distinctive feature of this park is the presence of busts of notable figures from Gilan, celebrating the region’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Due to its central location and easy access, Sabzeh Meydan is ideal for rest and recreation. It attracts people of all ages—from children playing to adults seeking relaxation. Tall trees, benches, and gazebos create a pleasant environment. If you want to escape the city’s noise and pollution, Sabzeh Meydan is a great choice.
Historically, this square has served multiple purposes, including a criminal cemetery and historic pools, before being redeveloped during Mozaffar al-Din Shah’s reign. Today, it is a charming park recognized as one of Rasht’s best, with busts of famous Gilan figures such as Shiyoun Fomani, Mahmoud Behzad, and Professor Samii, honoring their cultural and scientific contributions.
For a unique and engaging experience in Rasht, Sabzeh Meydan offers greenery, a peaceful atmosphere, and recreational facilities for memorable moments.
Conclusion
With its diverse and beautiful parks, Rasht is one of the best cities for nature lovers and leisure seekers. From the historical Mohtasham Garden to modern Mellat Park, each green space has its own unique charm.
For calm and fresh air, Mofakhar and Daneshjoo Parks are excellent choices. For family outings, Ghods and Keshavarz Parks offer spacious areas and a variety of amenities. Finally, for a unique experience, visiting historic Sabzeh Meydan or Mellat Park’s musical fountain will create unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rasht Parks
1. Where are the main parks located in Rasht?
Rasht’s major parks, such as Mellat Park, Daneshjoo Park, Mofakhar Park, Sabzeh Meydan, and Keshavarz Park, are spread across the city. Most are easily accessible by taxi, public transport, or even on foot from central areas.
2. Are the parks in Rasht free to enter?
Yes, most public parks in Rasht are free for all visitors. Some special areas or attractions inside parks, such as 6D cinemas or musical fountains, may have a small fee.
3. What facilities can I find in Rasht parks?
Facilities vary by park but often include:
Children’s playgrounds
Walking and jogging paths
Exercise equipment
Restrooms and seating areas
Cafés or small restaurants
Scenic ponds, fountains, and gardens
4. Which parks are best for families with children?
Parks like Keshavarz Park, Daneshjoo Park, and Tohid Park are particularly family-friendly, offering playgrounds, open spaces, and safe environments for children.
5. Are there parks specifically for women?
Yes, Rasht Ladies’ Park is a unique park designed exclusively for women, providing a safe and peaceful environment for exercise and relaxation.
6. Can tourists experience local culture in the parks?
Many parks host cultural events, festivals, and traditional performances. For example, Mohtasham Garden and Mellat Park often organize cultural programs and exhibitions.
7. Are there historical attractions in Rasht parks?
Yes, some parks combine natural beauty with history. For instance:
- Mohtasham Garden – Qajar-era garden with historical architecture
- Sabzeh Meydan – historic square with busts of prominent local figures
- Mofakhar Park – features centuries-old trees and traditional designs
8. Can I go for sports or jogging in the parks?
Absolutely. Most parks have designated walking, jogging, and exercise areas, and some even host morning exercise sessions for locals.
9. Are there dining options inside the parks?
Some parks, like Mellat Park, have cafés such as “Saye Café” where visitors can enjoy snacks and drinks. Other parks may have small refreshment stalls.
10. Are Rasht parks accessible for the elderly or disabled?
Many parks provide easy walking paths, benches, and accessible entrances, making them suitable for elderly visitors. Accessibility may vary, so it’s recommended to check specific parks if mobility is a concern.
11. What is the best time to visit Rasht parks?
Spring and early autumn are ideal, thanks to the mild climate and lush greenery. Evenings are often pleasant for a walk or enjoying the musical fountains.
12. Can I camp or stay overnight in Rasht parks?
Only certain parks, like Mellat Park, have designated camping areas. Overnight stays are limited and usually require permission from park authorities.
