Where is Kuhdasht and Its Tourist Attractions
Kuhdasht is one of the beautiful and picturesque cities of Lorestan Province, which attracts a large number of tourists during spring and summer. Travelers head there to relax, find peace of mind, and explore its unique natural and historical attractions. In this article from Golf City Pedia Travel Magazine, we will provide you with the most comprehensive travel guide to Kuhdasht.
Here, you will find everything you need to know about the city—its climate, distance from major cities in Iran, access routes, top tourist attractions, accommodations, restaurants, local dishes, and popular shopping centers. If you are planning a trip to this city, stay with us until the end.
Where is Kuhdasht?
Kuhdasht is one of the ancient cities of Lorestan Province, located in the western part of the region. As the fourth most populous city in Lorestan, it holds a special place among the province’s cities and has always attracted the attention of tourists. In the northern part of the county, there is an area called Olad Qobad, where the ruins of an old city have been discovered.
Based on available evidence, these ruins belong to the ancient city of Kuzasht, which the famous Iranian historian and geographer Hamdallah Mustawfi mentioned in his works. Kuhdasht lies in a vast plain surrounded on all sides by mountains.
Some researchers believe that this unique geographical setting is the main reason behind the city’s name. The county is bordered by Kermanshah Province to the north, Ilam Province to the northwest, south, and southwest, and Khorramabad County to the east. The city is situated at an elevation of 1,195 meters above sea level.
How to Get to Kuhdasht?
To visit this charming destination in Lorestan, you can travel by private car, bus, or plane. Below, we explain all the available routes and methods.
Traveling by Private Car | A Road Trip Opportunity
If you are traveling from Tehran by car, you have three different routes to choose from:
Route 1:
The first route covers 545 kilometers and takes about 6 hours. Along the way, you will pass through the cities of Saveh, Arak, Borujerd, and Khorramabad.
Route 2:
This route is 694 kilometers long, taking approximately 8 hours to complete. It is longer than the other two routes and passes through Eslamshahr, Saveh, Malayer, Hamedan, Cham Polak, Veysian, Khorramabad, and Borujerd.
Route 3:
The third route stretches 623 kilometers and, at an average speed of 84 km/h, takes about 7.5 hours. Along this road, you will pass through cities such as Kahrizak, Malard, Khorramdasht, Lalejin, Kabudarahang, Famenin, Azandarian, Jowkar, Malayer, Borujerd, Khorramabad, Sarab-e-Doreh, and Cham Polak.
Traveling by Bus | Perfect for Unplanned Trips
For those who enjoy spontaneous journeys, traveling by bus is an ideal option. Bus tickets can be purchased at any time, which is why this method has become a popular choice for many travelers. If you are planning a trip to this city, you can first take a bus to Lorestan Province and then continue your journey to Kuhdasht using intercity buses or other public transportation.
Traveling by Airplane | A Fast and Comfortable Journey
If long road trips are not your preference, you can start your journey with a flight to Lorestan Province. The airports in the province provide easy access to this beautiful and historic region. After arriving in Lorestan, you can conveniently reach your final destination by taking intercity buses or other forms of public transport.
How Far is Kuhdasht from Other Cities?
If you plan to travel to Kuhdasht from major Iranian cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj, Shiraz, Hamedan, or Mashhad, here are the approximate distances and travel times:
- Tehran to Kuhdasht: 541 km – about 7 hours
- Isfahan to Kuhdasht: 467 km – about 6 hours
- Karaj to Kuhdasht: 550 km – about 7 hours
- Shiraz to Kuhdasht: 853 km – about 11 hours
- Hamedan to Kuhdasht: 335 km – about 5 hours
- Mashhad to Kuhdasht: 1,348 km – about 17 hours
What Is the Climate Like in Kuhdasht?
The climate of Kuhdasht is moderate, mountainous, and somewhat semi-arid. During the hottest days of the year, the temperature can reach up to 42°C, while in the coldest days it may drop to –7°C. Considering these conditions, the best time to visit Kuhdasht is from early spring to mid-summer, when the dry season has not yet begun and nature is at its most beautiful.
Is Kuhdasht a Historical City?
Kuhdasht County is a priceless treasure of Iran’s ancient history and civilization. Archaeological findings show that people have lived in this land for thousands of years. The 12,000-year-old paintings in the Mir Malas and Hamiān caves, artifacts discovered in the Sorkh Dam-e Laki and Lori caves, and studies conducted in Hamiān and Sar Tarhan are all clear evidence of human settlement since prehistoric times.
The discovery of an Assyrian temple in this historic city further confirms that the region was one of the important cultural centers of the first millennium BC. Based on historical and archaeological evidence, Kuhdasht is considered one of the oldest inhabited regions of Iran.
What Language Do People in Kuhdasht Speak?
This historic county has a rich cultural fabric. Around 90% of the population speaks the sweet Laki language, while the rest speak the Lori dialect. This linguistic diversity highlights the long-standing peaceful coexistence of different ethnic groups in the region.
The Culture and Lifestyle of Kuhdasht’s People
Kuhdasht has been home to ancient civilizations since early times, especially the Kassites, one of the oldest tribes living in the Zagros Mountains. Most people in the city are Muslim, following either Shia Islam or Yarsanism (Ahl-e Haqq). Many tribes live in this region, among the most well-known being the Garavand, Emraei, and Azadbakht tribes.
The people of Kuhdasht value hard work as an inseparable part of their culture. Due to the region’s climate, most residents are engaged in animal husbandry and agriculture, occupations that require great effort and perseverance and have always played a vital role in the local economy and livelihood.
Which Tourist Attractions Should You Visit in Kuhdasht?
If you are looking for a journey where you can enjoy both the beauty of nature and the depths of Iran’s ancient history, Kuhdasht is one of the best destinations. Here are some of its most fascinating attractions:
Shirez Canyon | A Masterpiece of Nature in Iran
Shirez Canyon, with its unique geological formations, is a rare example of natural erosion. Over millions of years, nature has shaped its rocks into the awe-inspiring forms we see today. Similar phenomena can be found around the world, such as the Valley of the Kings in Australia and the Grand Canyon in the USA, both globally famous for their grandeur and beauty.
Stretching about 5 kilometers, Shirez Canyon showcases breathtaking high cliffs and rocky walls. These cliffs rise 150 to 200 meters above the canyon floor, gradually increasing in slope and height toward the end, especially in the Haft Rak area. A river flowing through the canyon eventually joins the Seymareh River. Near Godar-Gah Village, the canyon walls are at their lowest, creating a striking contrast with its towering sections.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 50 km north of Kuhdasht County, Zardalan District, Olad Qobad, Shirez Canyon.
Mir Malas Cave | Ancient Cave with Prehistoric Paintings
Located 18 km northeast of Kuhdasht, Mir Malas Cave is home to fascinating prehistoric rock paintings that decorate its northern and southern walls. These ancient artworks depict scenes of early human life, including warfare, hunting, and interactions with animals.
Unfortunately, the cave has been somewhat neglected, and the invaluable paintings—testimonies to the creativity and artistry of our ancestors—are at risk from both natural and human damage. Despite this, Mir Malas Cave could serve as one of Lorestan’s most significant tourist attractions and play a key role in the region’s tourism development.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 18 km northeast of Kuhdasht County.
Aliabad Cave | A Hidden Wonder in the Mountains
Aliabad Cave is not only an amazing natural attraction but also a treasure trove of human history. Nestled deep within the mountains, it once served as a dwelling for early humans. With its thousands of years of history, the cave tells captivating stories of past civilizations. Exploring the cave’s dark corridors requires professional guides and proper technical equipment.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County.
Kuhzad (or Vezniar) Fortress | A Parthian-Era Stronghold
Kuhzad (or Vezniar) Fortress is one of Kuhdasht’s most valuable historical monuments, located in the Rumeshkan District. Built from stone and mortar, the fortress remains relatively well-preserved in its northern section. Its arched architectural style resembles that of Zakheh Fortress in the same region. The main entrance faces east, and a large window has been built on the northern side. The remaining walls, rooms, and structures indicate the large scale of this ancient complex.
With its stunning views of the Seymareh Valley and the Tarhan and Rumeshkan regions, Kuhzad Fortress is a remarkable historical landmark. Dating back to the Parthian era and associated with Mithraism, the site is officially registered on Iran’s National Heritage List.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht, Rumeshkan tourist area.
Boluran Forest Park | A Quiet and Peaceful Retreat
Boluran Forest Park shines like a green gem in the Boluran rural district and Darb-e Gonbad area. Many travelers passing through this region are eager to visit. This protected area, with its diverse vegetation and mild climate, has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Thanks to its exceptional location on the road from Kuhdasht to Eslamabad-e Gharb, Boluran offers a breathtaking haven for relaxation and leisure.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County, Darb-e Gonbad Road.
Korgan Fortress | A Majestic Castle for Kings
In the heights of Dushe (or Dosheh) in Kuhdasht, two historic castles known as Korgan Fortresses stand tall. The first fortress is relatively large, with its northern wall built on the mountain slope, still preserved over time. Its only entrance is on the southern wall. Inside, three large cisterns were dug to store water during sieges and battles.
The second fortress, similar in style to the first, lies to the east of it. Both were constructed from stone and mortar. Because they once served as the residences of two kings, they are also known as the Dusheh Fortresses.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County.
Sorkh Dam-e Laki Temple | A Relic from the First Millennium BC
The ancient temple of Sorkh Dam-e Laki, located on the slopes of Mount Changari about 6 km northwest of Kuhdasht, is a remarkable historical site. Archaeological excavations have uncovered valuable relics dating back to the first millennium BC. The temple’s construction on a mountain slope reflects its strategic defensive role. The uncovered walls clearly show how the builders used the natural features of the land to create a strong fortress.
The site includes not only defensive walls but also important structures such as a royal palace and residential quarters. The royal section was positioned to overlook all parts of the fortress. Excavations since 1998 have revealed priceless artifacts, including intricately carved stones depicting winged lions and the Tree of Life, as well as colorful glazed pottery.
These relics, belonging to the 7th and 8th centuries AH and the first millennium BC, provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and lifestyle of the ancient inhabitants.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 6 km northwest of Kuhdasht County.
Humian Rock Engravings | A Priceless Treasure of the Paleolithic Era
The Humian petroglyphs, located in the northern mountains of Kuhdasht, are among the most valuable historical and cultural treasures of Iran. Although their exact age is uncertain, researchers believe they date back to the Paleolithic period.
Painted mostly in black and yellow, these images narrate the daily lives of ancient people. The earliest depiction shows an anchor, followed by scenes of deer hunting, both individual and group. Research has documented 10 engravings in Humian Cave and 18 engravings in Mir Malas Valley.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, northern Kuhdasht.
Sorkh Dam-e Lori Temple | An Assyrian-Era Sanctuary
About 10 km southeast of Kuhdasht, in the Lakestan region, lies the ancient site of Sorkh Dam-e Lori. Its name comes from the red soil of the mountain slope where it is located. Excavations have uncovered not only a temple but also residential structures likely used for rest and accommodation.
The sanctuary, found in the second layer of the site, had a two-story structure. The first level was built with large, irregular stones, while remains of baked and raw bricks suggest that the second floor was constructed from brick. At the center of the structure stood a cross-shaped clay altar.
Excavations yielded ritual objects such as bronze mirrors, cylindrical beads, small figurines, and votive offerings, providing a clear picture of the spiritual beliefs and religious practices of the ancient inhabitants. It seems this temple served as a communal worship site for different tribes of the region. Today, many unique bronze artifacts from Sorkh Dam-e Lori are preserved in private collections and prestigious museums around the world.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 10 km southeast of Kuhdasht County.
Haleh Dam | A Remarkable Water Structure of Lorestan
The Haleh Dam, built in the pristine Zagros landscape near Kuhdasht, is one of Lorestan’s outstanding water structures. This earthen dam, constructed in Haleh Gorge, not only provides water for agriculture and flood control but has also become a popular tourist attraction. Its scenic reservoir and the surrounding natural beauty create a peaceful setting for rest and recreation.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 12 km southwest of Kuhdasht, Abdoli tourist area.
Botkhaneh Cave | A Beautiful and Mysterious Cave in Mount Damchehr
Botkhaneh Cave, located in Mount Damchehr, about 18 km southeast of Kuhdasht, is one of Lorestan’s natural wonders. Its entrance is about 18 meters wide and 20 meters high, though partially blocked, requiring visitors to crawl in. Inside, a spectacular world of white limestone stalactites and stalagmites awaits, formed over millennia by water seepage through limestone layers.
Excavations have revealed flint tools and decorated pottery shards, evidence of early human settlement. Findings from different historical periods also suggest traces of the Paleolithic era. The cave, about 200 meters long and 20 meters wide, offers a fascinating space for exploration. Its striking stalagmites are the reason for its name, “Botkhaneh” (meaning “temple of idols”).
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 18 km southeast of Kuhdasht, Mount Damchehr.
Davoud Rashid (Davi-Rash) Mausoleum | An Islamic-Era Shrine
The historic mausoleum of Davoud Rashid, located about 10 km northwest of Kuhdasht, is one of the most valuable monuments from the post-Islamic period. Listed among Iran’s National Heritage Sites, it is regarded as both a historical and religious landmark of the region. Its age and distinctive architecture make it an attractive destination for those interested in cultural and historical sites.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 8 km north of Kuhdasht.
Manijeh Fortress | A Parthian Monument Spanning 2,500 m²
The Manijeh Fortress, covering more than 2,500 square meters, stands atop a hill overlooking the surrounding valleys. Its defensive wall stretches over 100 meters. Inside, remains of several rooms and a large water reservoir coated with lime plaster can be seen.
A fascinating underground passage extends southeastward at a steep incline, reaching a depth of about 15 meters. The vaulted ceiling, skillfully reinforced with lime plaster, leads to a well 22 meters deep and 1 meter wide, with walls lined with stonework. Parthian coins discovered at the site confirm the fortress’s ancient origins.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County.
Zagheh (Zakheh) Fortress | A Stone Stronghold from the Elamite Period
The Zagheh or Zakheh Fortress, located in Rumeshgan district of Kuhdasht, is a remarkable all-stone structure with a unique architectural style. Its arched designs differ from other historic sites in the province, and its construction materials include carved stones and river pebbles.
Although the French archaeologist De Morgan attributed it to the Elamite era, its architecture also shows strong Sassanian features. A large portion of the fortress remains buried underground, and scholars suggest that a fire temple may have existed in its southern section.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County, Rumeshgan District.
Si-Pelleh Bridge (Kar o Det) | A Link Between Iran and Mesopotamia
The Si-Pelleh Bridge, located in the Tarhan district of Kuhdasht, is a masterpiece of Sassanian engineering. Built over the Seimareh River, it was registered as a National Heritage Site of Iran in 2000. Today, it stands as one of the most important historical attractions in the region.
Constructed at the narrowest point of the river, the bridge once lay along an ancient route that connected Mesopotamia with Iran. This route passed through Kermanshah, Ilam, and Lorestan, linking the western parts of Iran. The bridge was primarily built with stone and gypsum mortar.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County, western Sar-Tarhan, Seimareh River.
Abol-Vafa Dome | The Mausoleum of a Close Companion of Sultan Ishaq
Located 25 km west of Kuhdasht, on the slopes of Mount Bareh Kazem, the Abol-Vafa Mausoleum is the shrine of Seyed Abol-Vafa, a prominent leader of the Ahl-e Haqq order and one of the close companions of Sultan Ishaq. Seyed Abol-Vafa was a descendant of Imam Musa Kazim (AS) and lived during the late 7th and early 8th centuries AH.
This sacred site, with its deep historical and spiritual significance, continues to attract both pilgrims and tourists each year, making it an important religious and cultural landmark of the region.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, 25 km west of Kuhdasht.
Changari Fortress | The Largest Stronghold of Madanrud in Lorestan
The Changari Fortress, one of Lorestan’s most significant historical sites, is perched atop a mountain overlooking the Kuhdasht plain. This mountain begins in the northeast of the county and stretches to the banks of the Seimareh River.
Even today, the remains of several ancient fortresses can still be seen on its peaks. Among them, the Changari Fortress is the most important, located about 10 km from Kuhdasht. Once covering an area of 75 by 100 meters, only ruins remain of this once-mighty structure. It was regarded as one of the largest and most important fortresses in the Madanrud region of Lorestan.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County, Mount Changari.
Khosrowabad Tower | A Unique Monument from the Zand Dynasty
The historic Khosrowabad Tower, also known as the Seyd Safar Beg Tower, is located in the Konani district of Kuhdasht, within the old cemetery of Khosrowabad village. Standing about 6.6 meters high with a base diameter of 2 meters, the tower has a curved, hexagonal pyramid shape. It was built using river stones and gypsum mortar.
Believed to date back to the Zand Dynasty, the tower once served as a marker for burial sites. Its historical significance and unique features have made it one of the region’s most valuable landmarks.
📍 Address: Lorestan Province, Kuhdasht County.
Famous Handicrafts and Souvenirs of Kuhdasht
Handicrafts reflect the culture, art, and lifestyle of every region. Lorestan is home to exquisite crafts such as brassware, jajim weaving, felt-making, wickerwork, and traditional footwear (giveh), preserving a rich heritage of Iranian artistry.
The province is also famous for its wide range of agricultural and livestock-based delicacies, which make delicious souvenirs. Local products include natural honey, animal butter, kak (traditional pastry), flour-based sweets, saj bread, Borujerdi cookies, Borujerd samanu (sweet pudding), and various types of halva, all known for their authentic and unforgettable taste.
Traditional Foods of Kuhdasht
Due to shared cultural traditions with other parts of Lorestan, Kuhdasht offers dishes similar to those found across the province. Among the most popular is Kalleh-Torsh Stew, a flavorful combination of lamb, pomegranate paste, onions, and potatoes. Other specialties include Ash-e Preshkeh (local soup), Chickpea Kofta, Tarkhineh Soup, Dogholeh-Doodar Stew, Goleh Rizeh (meatball stew), and Apple Stew.
Thanks to the region’s extensive livestock farming and high-quality meat, Kuhdasht’s kebabs are also particularly famous among visitors and locals alike.
Popular Restaurants in Kuhdasht
Kuhdasht offers a variety of restaurants serving delicious meals in welcoming settings. Some of the most popular include:
- Jiliz Wiliz Restaurant – Esteghlal Street, Kuhdasht.
- Valiasr Restaurant & Guesthouse – Rahbari Street, Kuhdasht.
- Dorehami Restaurant – Imam Street, Bahonar Street, Kuhdasht.
- Sarcheshmeh Traditional Restaurant – Sepah Street, Kuhdasht.
- Chef’s Restaurant – Rahbari Street, Kuhdasht.
Each of these venues offers a diverse menu and a pleasant atmosphere, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Shopping in Kuhdasht | Best Markets and Shopping Centers
For those who enjoy shopping, Kuhdasht provides a variety of centers where you can find everything from clothing and household goods to food products and souvenirs. Here are some of the most well-known spots:
Ghasr-e Noor Shopping Center – Rahbari Street, between Golestan-e Shohada and Shahid Abdollah Shahbazi Streets.
Asadian Grand Bazaar – Shahid Mardani Boulevard, 30-Meter Sadra, between Roz 15 & 17.
Shahbazi Passage – Shohada Boulevard, Mostafa Khomeini Street, Mohammad Soleimani Street.
Hafez Bazaarcheh – Shohada Boulevard, between Pezeshkan 1 and Payam.
Comfortable Stays in Kuhdasht
With its unspoiled nature and rich historical heritage, Kuhdasht offers a range of accommodations, from hotels and guesthouses to traditional eco-lodges. Depending on your taste and budget, you can enjoy a peaceful stay in the heart of nature or in the city center.
Khonak Eco-Lodge – Located in Davoud Rashid, Deh Khosrow village, this cozy lodge accommodates up to 10 guests. It offers heating/cooling systems, a fully equipped kitchen, and traditional Iranian restrooms.
Valiasr Guesthouse – Situated on Rahbari Street, next to Refah Bank in Ghasr-e Noor Mall, it provides rooms of various sizes (8 to 25 m²) and amenities like private parking, an elevator, safe boxes, and round-the-clock taxi service.
Azadi Hotel – A two-star, 14-room hotel established in 2007 near Keshavarz Square. It offers double rooms and 2-3 bed suites, along with a café, private parking, safe boxes, and high-speed internet.
Traveling to Kuhdasht | Where Mountains Meet Plains
Kuhdasht is one of those destinations that captures your heart at first sight. With its breathtaking nature and rich culture, it invites you to return again and again.
In this guide, we explored everything you need to know for a smooth and memorable trip — from the city’s history and climate to distances from major cities, cultural traditions, attractions, restaurants, accommodations, and shopping centers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kuhdasht (for International Visitors)
1. Where is Kuhdasht located?
Kuhdasht is a city in Lorestan Province, western Iran, surrounded by mountains and fertile plains.
2. How can I travel to Kuhdasht from Tehran or other major cities?
You can reach Kuhdasht by bus, private car, or domestic flight to nearby cities in Lorestan (such as Khorramabad), then continue by bus or taxi.
3. Is Kuhdasht safe for foreign tourists?
Yes, Kuhdasht is considered a safe and welcoming city. Locals are known for their hospitality, and crime rates are very low compared to big cities.
4. What are the main tourist attractions in Kuhdasht?
Popular attractions include natural landscapes, mountains, historical towers such as Khosrowabad Tower, local bazaars, and cultural festivals.
5. What kind of local food can I try in Kuhdasht?
Traditional dishes include Kalleh-Torsh stew, local soups (Ash), meatball stews, and famous kebabs made from fresh local meat.
6. Are there hotels or eco-lodges in Kuhdasht?
Yes, there are eco-lodges, guesthouses, and hotels such as Azadi Hotel, Valiasr Guesthouse, and Khonak Eco-Lodge.
7. What souvenirs should I buy from Kuhdasht?
Handicrafts like jajim weaving, felt products, wickerwork, and giveh shoes, as well as local sweets, natural honey, and dairy products are popular souvenirs.
8. What is the weather like in Kuhdasht?
The city has a mild spring, hot summers, and cold winters. The best time to visit is spring and early autumn.
9. Can I communicate in English with locals?
While English is not widely spoken, younger generations and people in the tourism sector may know basic English. Learning a few Persian phrases will help a lot.
10. How far is Kuhdasht from major cities like Tehran or Isfahan?
Tehran: ~541 km (~7 hours by car)
Isfahan: ~467 km (~6 hours)
Shiraz: ~853 km (~11 hours)
Mashhad: ~1348 km (~17 hours)
Have you ever visited Kuhdasht before? Which attraction, in your opinion, deserves to be visited more than once? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
