Things To Do
in Ashkezar
Ashkezar is a quiet desert town in Yazd Province, Iran, where sun-baked mud-brick buildings form a timeless horizon. The town sits near the edge of the Iranian plateau, serving as a gateway to the broader Yazd region’s wind-tower heritage and caravan-era history. Visitors wander narrow lanes, admire traditional architecture, and enjoy tranquil sunsets over open desert plains.
The surrounding villages and salt flats offer a glimpse into rural life, crafts, and stargazing under expansive night skies.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the ancient streets of Ashkezar's historic center, where the architecture reflects a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Jameh Mosque, an exquisite example of Islamic architecture that dates back centuries, and marvel at its intricate tile work and serene courtyard. Enjoy a traditional Persian breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh bread, cheese, and herbs while soaking in the ambiance.
After lunch, explore the nearby Ashkezar Castle, an impressive structure that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Engage with local artisans in the bustling bazaars, where you can find handwoven textiles and pottery unique to the region. Take a moment to relax in the shade of a tree and enjoy some sweet saffron ice cream from a local vendor.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby rooftop terrace for a delightful view of the town transitioning into night. Savor a traditional Persian dinner featuring kebabs and aromatic rice while enjoying the cool evening breeze. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere.
Start your morning at the local bazaar, where the lively atmosphere offers a glimpse into daily life in Ashkezar. Engage with friendly vendors selling spices, fruits, and handcrafted goods, and don’t forget to sample some fresh dates and pomegranates. The aroma of local street food fills the air, inviting you to try a breakfast of warm sangak bread with honey.
After the market, participate in a local cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes like ghormeh sabzi or fesenjan. As you cook, the instructor shares stories of Persian culinary traditions and the significance of various ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor over a communal lunch with your classmates, discussing the day's experiences.
In the evening, visit a nearby tea house where you can relax with a cup of fragrant Iranian tea. Share stories with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying traditional sweets like baklava. As night falls, stroll through the city, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for some live music at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | $0.60-1.00 |
| 🧭Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique desert scenery and adobe architecture typical of Yazd province
- Quiet, slower-paced travel with authentic cultural experiences
- Affordable costs for food, lodging, and local services
- Great stargazing and opportunities to visit historic villages nearby
- Limited nightlife and nightlife amenities by Western standards
- Language barriers in remote areas; English may be limited
- Desert heat in summer and cold nights in winter require planning
- Public transportation options are limited outside Yazd city
- "سلام" - Hello
- "لطفاً" - Please
- "متشکرم" - Thank you
- "ببخشید" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "این کجاست؟" - Where is this?
- "قیمتش چنده؟" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ashkezar
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic mud-brick architecture with traditional wind-catchers set against the desert light; best at early morning or late afternoon for soft shadows.
Ancient mud-brick houses and a crumbling gateway perched on a hillside; dramatic composition with the surrounding desert.
Expansive golden dunes and a fading horizon provide striking silhouettes and vast skies after the heat of the day.
Narrow lanes bordered by apricot trees and arid fields—great for intimate portraits of daily life and texture shots.
Food in Ashkezar
Ashkezar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
An almond-filled pastry from Yazd; best found in local bakeries and pastry shops in Ashkezar and nearby Yazd markets.
Must-Try!
A saffron rice pudding, served warm or cold, commonly enjoyed at tea houses and sweet shops.
Saffron-infused rice cake often with chicken or beef; widely available in local eateries and family-run restaurants.
A rich pomegranate-walnut stew that pairs well with rice; found in traditional Persian restaurants in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A place to sample dried fruits, nuts, saffron, pistachios, and Yazdi pastries; look for small stalls selling fresh tea and regional sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Conservative clothing is respectful; shoulders and knees should be covered, especially in religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or sacred spaces.
Remove shoes when required and follow posted guidelines; avoid loud or disruptive behavior near mosques and shrines.
Greet locals with polite phrases; modesty and politeness are valued in social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Ashkezar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated if service is not included. Round up for taxi drivers or guides if services are helpful.
Cash in Iranian Rial/Toman remains widely used. Many small merchants may not accept credit cards; larger hotels and some travel services may. ATMs are common in Yazd province for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry with long, sun-filled days. Plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon. Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and carry sun protection.
Mild days and cooler evenings; a great time for walking tours and outdoor photography without the extreme heat.
Cool to cold, with chilly nights. Pack warm layers and a windbreaker; days are shorter but often sunny and clear.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for desert walks, village visits, and photography around rural landscapes.
Ashkezar at Night
Hiking in Ashkezar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged desert trails with scenic overlooks and historic ruins; suitable for day hikes with proper planning and hydration.
Airports
How to reach Ashkezar by plane.
Closest airport serving domestic and some international flights; typically a 1–2 hour drive to Ashkezar depending on road conditions.
Major regional hub with more international connections; about a several-hour drive from Ashkezar by road.
Serves southern Iran with broader international connections; longer overland transfer to Ashkezar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Persian-speaking, Shia Muslim communities with a mix of urban and rural lifestyles. A younger population coexists with traditional families and artisans.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local matches and informal play common in towns and villages.
Traditional sports and wrestling activities are part of cultural events and community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashkezar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes use meat or stock; ask for vegetable stews, lentil or bean dishes, or rice with vegetables. Request no meat stock and prefer dairy-free options if needed.