Top 27 Must-Visit Spots in Zahedan
If you’ve never been to Zahedan, prepare to be amazed by its wide array of attractions—from grand mosques and ancient historic houses to vast sandy deserts and towering palm trees.
So, if you’re among those who haven’t yet traveled to this authentic and visually captivating city, we highly recommend planning your trip by booking a flight to Zahedan as soon as you can. But before you do, stay with us until the end of this article to discover the top sights and attractions of this lesser-known metropolis.
1. Zahedan Post and Communications Museum
The Zahedan Post and Communications Museum is one of the most fascinating places to visit in the city. The building was first constructed in 1932 and served as the province’s first radio station, known for broadcasting programs in the Balochi language. It also functioned as the city’s main post and telegraph office.
Built using adobe and brick, the museum reflects desert-style architecture suitable for the region’s climate. In the 2000s, it was repurposed as a museum and now features a collection of postal and communication tools on display in various exhibits and showcases. Visitors can see life-size statues of postmen, vintage phones, collectible stamps (including foreign ones), ancient seals from the Burnt City (Shahr-e Sukhteh), and classic stampers. It’s worth noting that this museum was registered as a national heritage site in 1998.
Address: Taleghani 14, Taleghani Street, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
2. Hamun Wetland
Wetlands are natural wonders that offer a unique combination of arid land and water bodies. One of the most stunning examples of this harmony is the Hamun Wetland, located in Zabol County and considered a major attraction near Zahedan. Its ponds and marshes, along with sparse yet charming vegetation, create a picturesque landscape you’ll never tire of.
However, it’s important to note that in recent years, the wetland has suffered from severe drought, and its appearance has changed considerably from what it once was.
3. Abouei House
Abouei House is a historic residence in Zahedan with unique architectural features, registered as a national heritage site of Iran. Built in 1932 by Yazdi architect Mohammad Ali Mahmoudi for a statesman named Zaeem Abouei during the first Pahlavi era, the house covers an area of 813 square meters.
It includes a two-story building and a large central courtyard with a charming pond in the middle. Highlights include ornate plasterwork on the ceilings, pointed arches, and a traditional windcatcher positioned above the central hall to cool the house during the hot summer months.
Today, the house serves as a center for traditional arts and crafts in Zahedan. If you visit the city on a tour, this site is a must-see.
Address: Shariati Street, above Mostafa Khomeini Street, Zahedan
4. Rasouli Crossroads Bazaar
When it comes to shopping in Zahedan, Rasouli Bazaar—or Chaharrah Rasouli Bazaar—is the first name that comes to mind. This traditional covered market has been active since before the Islamic Revolution and features various sections dedicated to different trades.
It all began when a man named Haj Reza Rasouli Saniabadi from Yazd built several adjacent shops at this spot during a journey to India. Over time, these shops expanded into the city’s largest market.
Today, the market sells everything from clothing and shoes to nuts, fabrics, electrical goods, and local handicrafts. Zahedan’s famous cookies, unique spices, and mango pickles are popular take-home treats for tourists. Due to the city’s border location, imported goods are also widely available, making this bazaar especially popular compared to modern malls and shopping centers.
Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 9 PM
Address: Rasouli Crossroads, Zahedan
5. Garanaz Recreational Complex
Located in the southwest of Zahedan, Garanaz Recreational Complex is one of the city’s most entertaining spots. It features lush green spaces with beautifully landscaped trees, several local restaurants, and outdoor cafés. Open-air gazebos offer pleasant resting spots for visitors.
The highlight of this complex is its man-made lake, where guests can enjoy boat rides and create joyful memories.
Hours: Every day except Friday mornings
Morning: 8 AM – 2 PM | Evening: 5 PM – 10 PM
Address: Danesh Boulevard, Danesh 17, Zahedan
6. Shams House
Registered as a national heritage site, Shams House is another historic residence in Zahedan, built during the first Pahlavi period around 1936. It reflects the Yazdi architectural style of early Zahedan homes.
The house includes sections such as an entryway, bathroom, storage, living rooms, and a kitchen. It was built using brick, wood, adobe, and mud.
Interestingly, the provincial cultural heritage organization has proposed converting this house into an archaeology research center, although the plan has yet to be implemented.
Address: Shariati Street, across from Zaeem House, Zahedan
7. Makki Mosque
Makki Mosque—also known as Zahedan’s Grand Makki Mosque—is one of Iran’s most unique mosques. Its architecture resembles Ottoman-style mosques, especially the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) in Turkey.
It is also one of the largest Sunni mosques in Iran, founded by Molavi Abdul Aziz Molazadeh in 1974. With a 600-square-meter footprint, the mosque has four minarets (the tallest being about 90 meters high) and around 52 beautiful domes.
Its interior plasterwork is particularly eye-catching and reminiscent of the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi) in Medina.
Open 24/7
Address: Khayyam Street, Zahedan
8. Southeast Regional Museum (Zahedan Grand Museum)
A must-see in Zahedan, the Southeast Regional Museum (also known as Zahedan Grand Museum) is one of the largest museums in Sistan and Baluchestan Province and a key cultural hub in southeastern Iran.
Housed in a five-story building with a total area of 1,300 square meters, the museum showcases archaeological artifacts from excavations in Kerman and Sistan and Baluchestan, taxidermy animals, traditional local food items, and regional clothing.
Visitors gain valuable insight into the customs and heritage of Zahedan’s people. The museum also features a library with over 5,000 volumes on art and history.
Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 7 AM – 6 PM | Fridays, 4 PM – 6:30 PM
Address: Ayatollah Motahari Boulevard, Jihad Street, Zahedan
9. Yazdi Hosseinieh
It is said that the people of Yazd were among the first migrants to Zahedan, and many of the city’s early buildings were constructed by Yazdi architects. One of the most notable is the Yazdi Hosseinieh, built in 1933 in the heart of the historic city center.
This was the first and oldest Hosseinieh in Zahedan and remains one of the busiest religious centers, especially during special ceremonies.
One of the most famous events held here is Nakhl Gardani, a traditional procession during Muharram. The Hosseinieh includes a large courtyard, cold storage area, yard, and a central kitchen.
Address: Balochestan Boulevard, Zahedan
10. Malek Caravanserai
Once the first caravanserai in Zahedan, Malek Caravanserai is now a historical site located in the city center. Built during the Pahlavi era by a Pakistani national named Malek Shafi’, the structure features a brick-adorned entrance leading to a rectangular courtyard with 29 rooms surrounding it.
These rooms once served as rest stops for travelers. The rooms have domed ceilings and decorative niches inside. Unfortunately, most parts of this registered national monument have been destroyed, and only ruins remain.
Address: Intersection of Kafaami Street and Hafez Alley, Zahedan
11. Barasan Recreational Complex
About five kilometers west of Zahedan lies Barasan Recreational Complex, one of the city’s top attractions. “Barasan” means “brothers” in the Balochi language, and the name was chosen by the three brothers who built the complex.
This large park features tall palm trees, green areas, and plenty of benches, making it ideal for family relaxation.
Highlights include a traditional-style banquet hall, a spacious restaurant, and a small zoo. The facility also provides secure private parking, and a beautifully designed stone-façade mosque that draws the eye of every visitor.
Hours: Daily from 5 PM to midnight
Address: 5 km west of Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
12. Lucho Mountain
If you’re looking to explore one of the most untouched natural regions in southeastern Iran, we highly recommend visiting Lucho Mountain, located in the southern part of Zahedan. Lucho means “bare,” a name inspired by the mountain’s shiny and polished appearance, which is due to its granite composition. This mountain rises to an elevation of about 2,780 meters.
The way light reflects off the mountain creates a stunning and dreamlike landscape. Its breathtaking sunsets have made it especially popular among hikers and nature lovers. As the sun sets, the granite stones reflect the moonlight in a magical way, and the clear skies above the mountain peaks provide ideal conditions for astrophotography and stargazing, which are favorite nighttime activities for visitors in this pristine region.
Location: Sistan and Baluchestan Province, south of Zahedan
13. Zahedan Historic Covered Bazaar
Shopping in traditional markets is often one of the highlights of a travel itinerary, and in Zahedan, the Historic Covered Bazaar is a must-visit. This market dates back to 1929–1932 and consists of 35 small shops arranged along a traditional covered corridor. Constructed primarily from adobe and clay, the architecture resembles that of old Persian bazaars, with arched ceilings and large skylights adding charm to the space.
Although the number of shops is limited and the variety of products is not extensive, the authentic atmosphere, local residents in traditional clothing, and the heritage-rich architecture make it a memorable experience. You’ll find local fabrics, tailoring tools, gold, clothing, and a few electronics among the goods sold here.
Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location: Imam Khomeini Street, between Azadi and Taleghani, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan
14. Nosrat Abad Caravanserai
Among Zahedan’s historic landmarks is the Nosrat Abad Caravanserai, located near the town of Nosrat Abad. This structure dates back to the Safavid era and reflects a traditional four-iwan architectural style with symmetrical design principles. Covering approximately 400 square meters, it is surrounded by a 5.7-meter-high wall and made of adobe and clay.
The interior courtyard is square-shaped, with 60 rooms arranged around it. There are also seven watchtowers for surveillance. The design is simple and functional, with minimal ornamentation aside from some fishbone-patterned bricks and zigzag brick motifs on the façade.
Location: 4 kilometers northwest of Nosrat Abad, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan
15. Faiz-ur-Rahman Mosque
Zahedan is home to many historic mosques, and one notable example is the Faiz-ur-Rahman Mosque, built during the late Qajar and early Pahlavi periods. The mosque was originally constructed by Faizollah, a local elder, and was designed by Master Haidari, a renowned architect of that era. Made from raw adobe, the mosque features a rectangular plan with an area of about 210 square meters.
Today, the mosque is listed on Iran’s National Heritage Register. However, visible damage to its columns suggests that it is in need of restoration and preservation efforts.
Location: Majdiyeh Street, Alley No. 9, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan
16. Zahedan Khanqah (Sufi Lodge)
The Zahedan Khanqah is another nationally registered heritage site, built during the early Pahlavi era. Historically, it served as a residence for dervishes and mystics, and over time it became a space for spiritual gatherings, discussions, and worship.
Constructed from bricks, the building includes a small, peaceful house with an entrance leading to a courtyard filled with decorative gardens. The entrance arch is adorned with blue tilework and Quranic verses in Nastaliq calligraphy. The architectural style reflects Islamic aesthetics throughout.
Location: Jam-e-Jam Boulevard, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan
17. Ladiz Recreation Complex
If you’re looking for a fun family outing during your trip to Zahedan, the Ladiz Recreation Complex is an excellent choice. Recently opened in 2016, the complex was developed to boost tourism and recreational facilities in the city. It spans a massive 90,000 square meters.
A key attraction is the musical fountain located at its center. The complex offers a variety of entertainment options including cinemas, amusement parks, bowling alleys, children’s play areas, and a water park. Amenities such as a gas station, restrooms, traditional teahouse, restaurant, and car wash are also available.
Don’t miss out on the luxury shopping inside the complex. During national holidays like Nowruz or Chaharshanbe Suri, special events and celebrations are also held here.
Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Location: Jomhouri Eslami Boulevard, next to Velayat Park, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan
18. Ladiz Village
Villages often preserve the most untouched natural wonders, thanks to their isolation from urban development—and Ladiz Village is no exception. Located about 100 kilometers from Zahedan, near Mirjaveh, this village is renowned for its pristine nature.
With roots dating back to the Paleolithic era, it is one of Iran’s historic villages. Natural attractions include the Ladiz Water Cave, Mount Taftan, and the Ladiz Waterfall—all of which make it a favorite destination for nature lovers. Another significant site is the Ladiz Hill Fortress, also known as Arbabi Castle, which dates back to the Sassanid period.
Location: 100 kilometers from Zahedan on the Mirjaveh Road, Sistan and Baluchestan
19. Mount Taftan
For those seeking a challenging mountain climb, Mount Taftan—the tallest peak in southeastern Iran—is a thrilling option. With an elevation of approximately 3,940 meters, this semi-active volcanic mountain is a major attraction near Zahedan.
It features multiple peaks stretching over 12 kilometers, with Chehel-Tan (Forty Bodies) or Ziyarat Mountain being the most famous. The area is enriched by the presence of three lakes and several mineral springs, adding to its natural beauty. One notable spring, Jam Chin, is especially popular due to its therapeutic properties.
Location: 170 kilometers from Zahedan, on the Zahedan-Khash Road, Sistan and Baluchestan
20. Hamoon Shopping Center, Zahedan
The Hamoon Shopping Center is one of Zahedan’s top commercial hubs, especially for computer hardware enthusiasts. This multi-story mall offers a wide range of both locally made and imported digital equipment.
Whether you’re in search of the latest gadgets or affordable accessories, this is a great place to shop. Many stores also offer professional repair services for computers and laptops, making it a one-stop destination for all your tech needs.
Location: Intersection of Imam Khomeini Street and Molavi Street, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan
21. Laleh Park of Zahedan (Laleh Garden)
Many people who have never visited Zahedan might assume it’s hard to find parks or gardens there. However, contrary to this popular belief, the city is home to several parks that will leave you pleasantly surprised. One of the oldest and most well-known parks in Zahedan is Laleh Park, a vibrant space perfect for family outings—especially for children.
Established in 2003 on a 4.5-hectare plot, this park is essentially a large amusement park. It features various rides and play equipment for both adults and kids. Attractions like tall wavy slides and large Ferris wheels create joyful moments that can turn a simple visit into an unforgettable memory for children visiting Zahedan.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Janbazan Boulevard, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
22. Tomb of the Seventy Mullahs
One of the most mysterious and unusual sites in Zahedan is an ancient cemetery known as The Tomb of the Seventy Mullahs. Located 75 km from Zahedan near the small town of Mirjaveh, this historic site dates back around 800 years. It’s situated in the mountainous region of Taftan, nestled between rugged rock formations covering an area of approximately 500 square meters.
The tombs are set within the crevices of the mountain, naturally sheltered by towering rock walls above. Interestingly, the design of the gravestones is inspired by the tomb of Cyrus the Great, and all of them are made of white stone.
Address: Near Mirjaveh, 75 km from Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
23. Shah Ali Mosque
Shah Ali Mosque is one of the most significant historical monuments in Sistan and Baluchestan Province. It was built in the Islamic year 847 (15th century AD) by the order of King Shams al-Din Ali. Locals also refer to it as the Al Ali Mosque.
The mosque features two engraved stone plaques that are considered valuable historical artifacts. Experts date them back to the 9th Islamic century. One of the inscriptions names the builder, Shah Ali, while the other commemorates the Maluk dynasty.
Address: Nastaran neighborhood, Enqelab Street, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
24. Salmanzadeh Boutique (Salmanzadeh Bazaar)
Salmanzadeh Boutique, also known as Salmanzadeh Bazaar, is one of the most famous and oldest shopping centers in Zahedan. It’s primarily known for selling second-hand imported clothing, locally called “Latteh”, which are often of high quality.
You’ll also find second-hand branded boots and sports shoes that attract loyal customers. Naturally, the prices are significantly lower than those in shops selling the same items new, making this bazaar a popular budget-friendly choice.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Address: Corner of Mehran Street, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
25. Rig-e Yalan (The Great Sand Dune)
The desert landscapes around Zahedan offer some of the most unique experiences for nature lovers and desert adventurers. One such pristine desert destination is Rig-e Yalan or The Great Sand Dune, located about 100 km from Zahedan.
This vast sandy expanse features low rolling dunes and scenic views. One of the highlights here is renting camels from local camel handlers for an authentic desert riding experience. The sensation of riding through the golden sands is truly unforgettable.
It’s essential to carry proper gear when visiting this area, and having an experienced local guide can greatly enhance the experience and ensure safety.
26. Zaranj Mosque
Listed among the notable religious sites of Zahedan, Zaranj Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Sistan and Baluchestan Province. Historically, it served as a center for Islamic education for many years. It was built by an Arab ruler named Abd al-Rahman ibn Samura, and the structure dates back to the first or second century after the advent of Islam.
This mosque was also a teaching site for the famous Islamic scholar Hasan al-Basri, making it a symbol of Islamic civilization in the region. Architecturally, the mosque follows Islamic design principles and features two old minarets, one of which is covered in copper.
Address: Opposite Zaranj Prison, Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
27.Amusement Parks in Zahedan
Zahedan’s amusement parks are among the city’s most popular recreational attractions, especially for families and children. These parks offer a wide range of modern and exciting rides, making them ideal places to spend quality leisure time with your loved ones.
Typically, Zahedan’s amusement parks feature thrilling rides such as Ferris wheels, roller coasters, bumper boats, water games, and various other entertaining attractions—each offering a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors.
One of the most impressive aspects of these parks is the variety of rides and facilities tailored for all age groups—from young children to adults. Some amusement parks even include 5D cinemas and video game arcades, making them especially appealing to fans of technology and gaming.
Additionally, you’ll find various restaurants and cafes within the parks where you can relax and enjoy a variety of meals and beverages alongside your fun activities.
Popular Parks:
- Park-e Mellat Amusement Park
- Garanaz Amusement Park
These two are among the most well-known amusement parks in Zahedan, offering excellent facilities for fun and entertainment.
Gulf City Pedia’s Tips for Visiting Zahedan’s Attractions
When visiting religious sites like the Makki Grand Mosque, be sure to respect local customs and traditions.
Don’t forget that Zahedan has a warm climate—dress appropriately and carry enough water with you. Most importantly, take the time to engage with the hospitable locals; getting to know their culture will be one of the most rewarding parts of your journey.
