Things To Do
in Behbahān

Behbahān is a city located in the southwestern region of Iran, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including mountains and lush gardens, creating a serene atmosphere. Behbahān is home to several historical sites, such as the Jameh Mosque and the ancient citadel, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts.

The local bazaars offer a glimpse into traditional Iranian lifestyle, showcasing handicrafts and local cuisine.

  • "Salam" - Hello
  • "Khodahafez" - Goodbye
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Bebakhshid" - Excuse me
  • "Lotfan" - Please

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $4 - $10
  • Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.5 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $25
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Behbahn's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the lush landscapes surrounding Behbahān. Enjoy a peaceful hike in the nearby mountains to take in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

Head to the local parks where you can relax and have a picnic. Don't miss the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna.

evening
:

As the sun sets, visit a traditional tea house. Delight in some local tea while enjoying the serene ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Heritage Tour
morning
:

Kick off your day by visiting the historical sites of Behbahān. Explore the ancient architecture and learn about the rich history of the area.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of local museums to appreciate the art and culture. Engage with knowledgeable guides for a deeper understanding.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural performance if available. Enjoy traditional music and dance that showcases the region's heritage.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, including ancient sites and traditional architecture.
  • A pleasant climate in certain seasons, making it an attractive destination for visitors.
  • Local cuisine is diverse and offers unique flavors typical of Persian culture.
  • Friendly and hospitable local population, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Strategic location as a transportation hub, connecting various regions of Iran.
  • Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • Economic challenges, including unemployment and reliance on agriculture.
  • Limited job opportunities, especially for skilled professionals.
  • Occasional issues with air pollution and environmental concerns.
  • Language barrier for non-Persian speakers, making communication difficult.

Best Activities in Behbahān

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Exploring Shadegan Wildlife Refuge

Visiting the Shadegan Wildlife Refuge offers the opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area, as well as enjoy bird watching and photography.

Trekking in Dasht-e Lut

The vast desert of Dasht-e Lut provides stunning landscapes for trekking and experiencing the unique desert environment.

Visiting Choghakhor Wetland

Choghakhor Wetland is a beautiful natural area where visitors can enjoy bird watching, boating, and hiking.

Tours

Uncover the best of Behbahān with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Behbahān

Visit one of these nice places.

Behbahān Bazaar

This bustling marketplace offers a vibrant atmosphere and photo opportunities of local life and architecture.

Arg-e Rayen

A historical adobe fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a unique photo opportunity.

Shazdeh Garden

A beautiful Persian garden with stunning landscapes, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Food in Behbahān

Behbahān, Iran is known for its rich and flavorful Persian cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the use of herbs, spices, and aromatic flavors. The city offers a diverse range of delicious dishes, and visitors are in for a treat when exploring the local food scene.

Behbahān Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dizi

A traditional Iranian stew made with lamb, chickpeas, white beans, and tomatoes, infused with a blend of aromatic spices. Best enjoyed at local restaurants such as Dizi Saraye Rahmat.

Must-Try!

Chelo Kabab

A popular Persian dish consisting of grilled meat (kabab) served with steamed saffron rice (chelo). Suggested places to try include Shah Abbasi Restaurant and Behpakhsh Restaurant.

Abgoosht

A hearty broth made with lamb, chickpeas, and potatoes, seasoned with turmeric and other spices. Head to local eateries like Zeynab’s Kitchen for an authentic taste.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Behbahān better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Behbahān Bazaar

The bustling bazaar is a great spot to sample a variety of street food such as kebabs, falafel, and traditional Iranian sweets like gaz and sohan. It's a vibrant hub for experiencing local flavors and culinary traditions.

Joojeh Kabab Stalls

Stroll through the streets and look for the Joojeh Kabab stalls offering succulent grilled chicken skewers marinated in saffron and lemon juice, typically served with lavash bread and grilled tomatoes.

Weather

Located in southwestern Iran, the climate is characterized as a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen BSh). Summers are typically long, hot, and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the peak months of July and August. Winters are mild and relatively short, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rainfall is scarce and mostly occurs in the cooler months, primarily from November to April. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially in the spring and autumn. Due to its geographical location, the region can also be subject to strong winds, particularly in the summer. Overall, the climate conditions contribute to a landscape that is arid and dominated by desert and steppe vegetation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Behbahān, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially of the opposite gender.

Observe religious customs

It is important to be mindful of religious customs and practices in Behbahān, such as dressing modestly and being respectful in religious spaces.

Show hospitality

Hospitality is highly valued in Behbahān, so it's important to show gratitude and respect when invited into someone's home or offered food.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Behbahān with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this region of Iran can be influenced by several factors, including socio-political conditions, crime rates, and natural disasters. Like many places, the level of safety can vary depending on the specific area within the city or surrounding environment. Generally, crime rates in smaller cities may be lower compared to larger urban areas, but petty crime, such as theft, can still occur. Travelers and residents are often advised to remain vigilant and take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. The socio-political climate in Iran is complex, and while Behbahān may not experience the same level of unrest as larger cities, awareness of local customs and regulations is important for both safety and respect for the culture. Natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, are a consideration in this part of Iran due to its geographic location. Individuals living in or visiting the area should be informed about emergency procedures and preparedness for such events. Overall, while Behbahān may have a generally tranquil atmosphere, maintaining awareness and taking appropriate safety measures is advisable, as in any location.

Tipping in Behbahān

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Behbahān, Iran. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.

Payment

Cash is the most common form of payment in Behbahān, Iran. Credit and debit cards may be accepted in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller vendors and businesses.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Behbahān.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Behbahān, Iran. Expect comfortable temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers.

Autumn

Another great time to visit Behbahān, Iran. Expect mild weather and colorful fall foliage.

Summer

Expect hot and dry weather. The summer months can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F.

Winter

Expect cool temperatures. While winters are generally mild, it can get chilly and rainy at times.

Behbahān at Night

In the evenings, the city streets of Behbahān come alive with vibrant activity. The local community enjoys a variety of simple yet engaging nocturnal pastimes. Strolling through the city, you'll often find people congregating in tea houses and cafes, where they socialize over traditional Iranian tea, coffee, and pastries. These establishments often serve as the heart of social interaction, providing a cozy atmosphere for conversation and relaxation. For those interested in a bit more activity, Behbahān offers a number of local parks and open spaces where families and friends gather to enjoy the cooler night air. It's a common sight to see children playing, while adults may join in with impromptu games of volleyball or soccer, or simply sit and chat on park benches. Local bazaars and street vendors continue to operate into the night, offering a range of local snacks, handicrafts, and other goods. The nighttime market atmosphere is a sensory delight, with the aroma of freshly cooked street food mingling with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares. Although Behbahān may not have the bustling nightlife of larger cities, its evening ambiance is enriched by cultural and social traditions. Music and occasional live performances can be found, particularly during festive seasons or cultural events, adding a layer of entertainment to the nights. Overall, Behbahān’s nightlife is characterized by a strong sense of community and tradition, where residents and visitors alike can partake in the quieter joys of social interaction, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.

Hiking in Behbahān

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tang-e Makhloogh

A beautiful gorge near Behbahān, known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for hiking and nature observation.

Mount Zard

A prominent mountain offering challenging hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and valleys.

Khalij-e Behbahān

A less-traveled hiking spot that showcases the natural beauty of the region, perfect for those seeking solitude and tranquility.

Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Mountains

A range of mountains that provide various hiking trails, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers with scenic views.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Behbahān through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Behbahān by plane.

Ahvaz International Airport (AWZ)

Located approximately 160 km northwest of Behbahān, Ahvaz International Airport serves the city of Ahvaz and the surrounding region.

Shiraz International Airport (SYZ)

Situated about 230 km to the east of Behbahān, Shiraz International Airport is a major airport serving the city of Shiraz and connecting to various international destinations.

Bandar Abbas International Airport (BND)

Located about 330 km south of Behbahān, Bandar Abbas International Airport is an important airport serving the southern regions of Iran and providing international flights.

Isfahan International Airport (IFN)

Approximately 300 km to the north of Behbahān, Isfahan International Airport serves the city of Isfahan and offers both domestic and international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in a city depends on various factors, including the design of the urban environment, the availability of pedestrian pathways, public transport options, and the overall safety and accessibility of neighborhoods. In a place like Behbahān, the walkability can be evaluated based on the town's infrastructure, street connectivity, and the presence of amenities within walking distance. Typically, walkable areas feature well-maintained sidewalks, adequate street lighting, and safe crossings, which encourage walking as a viable mode of transportation. Additionally, the proximity of essential services such as shops, schools, parks, and healthcare facilities can significantly enhance walkability, making it easier for residents to meet their daily needs without relying heavily on vehicles. In historical and smaller cities, traditional architecture may also influence walkability, as narrow streets and vibrant marketplaces often promote pedestrian activity. Conversely, urban sprawl and poorly designed urban spaces can hinder walkability, making it less enjoyable or safe for residents to walk. In Behbahān, the local climate and cultural factors may also play a role in how residents perceive walkability. Factors like weather conditions and community attitudes toward walking can influence walking patterns and habits. Overall, the walkability of a city like this can have a considerable impact on the quality of life for its inhabitants.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Persians

The majority ethnic group in Behbahān, making up a significant portion of the population.

Arabs

A notable minority in the region, particularly concentrated in certain areas.

Kurds

Present in smaller numbers, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.

Lurs

An ethnic group found in the region, often engaged in farming and pastoralism.

Others

Includes various smaller ethnic and cultural groups in the region.

The Soul of Behbahān

Discover the essence of Behbahān through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

The most popular sport in Behbahān, with local teams and significant community support.

Wrestling

A traditional sport with deep roots in Iranian culture, often practiced in local gyms.

Basketball

Gaining popularity among the youth, with local clubs and schools competing.

Volleyball

Widely played in schools and community centers, with both men's and women's teams.

Cycling

Popular for both recreation and sport, with scenic routes attracting enthusiasts.

Traffic

In this city, traffic primarily consists of local vehicles, including personal cars, motorcycles, and public transportation options such as buses and taxis. The road infrastructure often reflects a mix of urban and suburban characteristics, with narrower streets in older areas and wider roads in more developed parts. During peak hours, traffic congestion can be noticeable, particularly near marketplaces and central commercial districts. Pedestrian activity is common, with people moving along sidewalks and crossings, sometimes contributing to the flow of traffic. Local customs and driving behaviors can also influence the overall traffic dynamics, leading to a uniquely bustling atmosphere. Public transportation plays a vital role in navigating the city, with buses serving key routes and offering an affordable means of travel. However, the availability and frequency of services may vary, impacting residents' commute experiences. Overall, while the traffic may present challenges, it also reflects the vibrancy and daily life of the community.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Behbahān.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes in Behbahān offer vegetarian options such as Sabzi Polo (herb rice) and Kashk-e Bademjan (eggplant dip). For vegan choices, the market stalls serve fresh fruits, nuts, and a variety of mezze.

Gluten-Free Choices

Those with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like Kookoo Sabzi (herb frittata), Ash Reshteh (noodle soup), and salads that are typically available in most restaurants. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly with the staff.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Behbahān with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region is influenced by both local and national systems that aim to provide medical services to the population. The healthcare infrastructure includes public hospitals, private clinics, and community health centers, which cater to the medical needs of residents. Public healthcare is primarily managed by the government through the Ministry of Health and Medical Education. This system provides a range of services, including preventive care, maternal and child health services, and treatment for chronic diseases. Many healthcare facilities are equipped with essential medical equipment, although there may be occasional shortages of supplies or specialized services. Community health workers play a vital role in promoting health awareness and disease prevention in rural areas. They often conduct outreach programs to educate residents about hygiene, nutrition, and common health issues. Access to healthcare varies, with urban areas generally having better facilities and staffing compared to rural regions. Efforts are being made to improve healthcare delivery and access, particularly in remote areas. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on improving health services, including the introduction of health insurance schemes to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients. Nevertheless, challenges such as economic constraints, population growth, and the need for more healthcare professionals remain significant. Overall, while there are strides being made in healthcare provision, ongoing efforts are needed to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for all residents in this area.

Discover Iran

Read more in our Iran 2024 Travel Guide.

Iran Travel Guide