Things To Do
in Meymand

Meymand is an ancient troglodyte village in the mountainous region of Kerman province in southeastern Iran, notable for its hand-carved rock dwellings carved into cliffs and slopes. The village has been continuously inhabited for many centuries and retains traditional lifestyles, crafts and agricultural practices. Its narrow alleys, stepped paths and cave interiors create a living cultural landscape that feels frozen in time and very photogenic.

Visitors come for the unique architecture, quiet rural atmosphere and encounters with local families who still maintain many traditional ways of life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Meymand
morning
:

Arrive in the ancient village of Meymand, known for its unique troglodyte architecture. After settling into your accommodation, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking surrounding landscapes. Enjoy a traditional Iranian breakfast at a local eatery, featuring fresh bread, cheese, and olives.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the historical caves and rock-cut dwellings that date back over 3,000 years. Engage with local artisans practicing time-honored crafts, and learn about their fascinating culture. Visit the Meymand Museum to gain insights into the village's rich history.

evening
:

As evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll through the village to witness the sunset casting a golden hue over the rock formations. Savor a hearty dinner with traditional dishes, such as khoresh and local lamb. Gather around a fire with locals to share stories and experience the warm hospitality.

day 2
Exploring the Caves
morning
:

Wake up early to the sounds of nature and enjoy a nutritious breakfast before heading out to explore the nearby caves. Take a guided tour to delve into the history and significance of these ancient dwellings. Capture stunning photographs of the natural rock formations illuminated by the morning sun.

afternoon
:

After lunch, hike to the nearby waterfalls, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the landscape. Along the trail, encounter various flora and fauna unique to this region. Take a moment to relax by the water, enjoying the tranquility of nature.

evening
:

Return to Meymand and partake in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Iranian dishes. Dine on your culinary creations while enjoying the ambiance of a candlelit setting. Reflect on your day's adventures under a starlit sky, embracing the peaceful atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-12
🛏️Basic guesthouse / homestay (per night)$15-40
Tea or soft drink$0.50-2
🚕Short taxi or shared minibus ride (nearby town)$1-6
🚌Long-distance bus to Kerman (one-way)$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Unique, ancient troglodyte architecture and living cultural landscape
  • Excellent opportunities for photography and quiet reflection
  • Authentic encounters with traditional rural life and hospitality
  • Low light pollution — good for stargazing
  • Remote location with limited services and accommodations
  • Few formal restaurants or nightlife options
  • Uneven, steep terrain not ideal for people with mobility issues
  • Payment options limited — mostly cash required
  • "سلام (Salâm)" - Hello
  • "متشکرم / ممنون (Moteshakeram / Mamnoon)" - Thank you
  • "بله (Bale)" - Yes
  • "نه (Na)" - No
  • "لطفاً (Lotfan)" - Please
  • "قیمتش چنده؟ (Gheymatesh chande?)" - How much is it?
  • "دستشویی کجاست؟ (Dastshuyi kojast?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "می‌تونم عکس بگیرم؟ (Mitunam aks begiram?)" - May I take a photo?

Places to Visit in Meymand

Visit one of these nice places.

Main Troglodyte Cluster

The densest group of carved cave dwellings, narrow alleys and stone stairways — excellent for close-up architectural shots and capturing daily life.

Village Viewpoints

Lookout points on the outskirts provide panoramic vistas of the whole village against the mountain backdrop, ideal for golden-hour and sunset photos.

Cave Interiors

Interior rooms, storage niches and hearth areas reveal textures, light patterns and traditional objects — photograph carefully and ask permission before entering private spaces.

Workshops and Handcraft Areas

Local craftsmen and women at work (weaving, bread-making, wool processing) offer intimate cultural portraits; always request consent before photographing people.

Night Skies

Low light pollution makes Meymand a good place for astrophotography and long exposures of the starry sky over the rocky silhouette of the village.

Culinary Guide

Food in Meymand

Cuisine around Meymand reflects rural Kermani cooking: simple, hearty dishes based on lamb, goat, legumes, rice, flatbreads and seasonal vegetables, often flavored with regional spices, saffron and local dates. Meals are typically fresh, locally sourced and home-cooked; restaurant options inside the village are limited, so plan to eat with hosts or in nearby towns.

Meymand Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebabs and Stews

Simple lamb or goat kebabs and slow-cooked stews served with rice or flatbread; common in local homes and small roadside eateries in the region.

Must-Try!

Kolompeh

A Kerman specialty pastry filled with dates, cardamom and butter — widely available in Kerman province and a good souvenir snack.

Dough and Fresh Yogurt

Plain yogurt or 'dough' (a salted yogurt drink) often served with meals; made locally and a refreshing accompaniment in dry weather.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Village Stalls

Small stalls or home tables may sell fresh bread, tea and seasonal fruit; for a fuller market experience travel to the nearest town bazaar where you can find dates, nuts, kolompeh and basic produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Meymand sits in a semi-arid inland area with hot, dry summers and cool to cold winters. Precipitation is limited and occurs mainly in winter and spring; diurnal temperature swings can be significant, so warm layers are useful for nights even in warmer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Code

Dress modestly: women should wear a headscarf and clothing that covers arms and legs; men should avoid shorts in village settings. Conservative dress shows respect and eases interactions.

Photography Respect

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and children. Some residents may be uncomfortable being photographed.

Hospitality and Gifts

If invited to a home, follow local customs: remove shoes at the entrance, accept tea or a small snack, and bring a small gift such as sweets or packaged goods as a courtesy.

Gender Interactions

Public interactions between unrelated men and women are conservative; avoid physical contact such as handshakes unless the other person initiates.

Safety Guide

Safety

Meymand is generally safe for visitors, with low violent crime; the main risks are environmental and logistical: uneven terrain, isolation, limited emergency services and occasional extreme heat or cold. Bring water, sturdy footwear, a charged phone, and inform someone of travel plans. Respect local customs to avoid misunderstandings; avoid photographing sensitive government or military sites.

Tipping in Meymand

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in rural areas: round up taxi fares, leave small tips in restaurants or for guides (a few US dollars or equivalent), and offer gratitude directly when staying with hosts.

Payment Methods

Cash (Iranian rial) is the primary payment method in Meymand and surrounding towns. Credit and international debit cards are often not accepted due to banking restrictions, so bring sufficient cash or exchange currency in larger cities such as Kerman.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation make spring one of the best times to visit; comfortable daytime weather and pleasant evenings are ideal for walking and photography.

Summer

Hot and dry daytime conditions are common; mornings and evenings are more comfortable but expect intense sun and limited shade—carry water and sun protection and avoid strenuous hikes at midday.

Autumn

Cooler, comfortable weather with clear skies; harvest-related activities may be happening in surrounding fields and orchards, offering cultural experiences and seasonal produce.

Winter

Winters can be cold, especially at night — some services may be reduced and higher-altitude or remote trails can be chilly; pack warm layers and check road conditions if traveling by car.

Nightlife Guide

Meymand at Night

Nightlife in Meymand is minimal — evenings are quiet and revolve around family gatherings, tea houses or simple socializing. There are no bars or clubs; most entertainment is community-based, such as conversation, music in private settings or stargazing.

Hiking in Meymand

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Meymand Ridge Walks

Short hikes from the village up surrounding ridges that offer panoramic views of the troglodyte settlement and the valley; trails are informal and rocky.

Valley and Orchard Trails

Gentler walks through nearby orchards and agricultural terraces during spring and autumn, good for observing local farming practices and birdlife.

Seasonal Streambeds and Foothills

Exploration of dry streambeds and foothill slopes provides opportunities for nature spotting and landscape photography; avoid these areas during heavy rain due to flash-flood risk.

Airports

How to reach Meymand by plane.

Kerman International Airport (KER)

The largest airport serving Kerman province; from Kerman city it is a few hours’ drive to Meymand by road. Kerman is the usual regional hub for buses or car hire to reach Meymand.

Bam Airport (BXR)

Smaller regional airport near the historic city of Bam; depending on your route, Bam can be used as an alternate access point, followed by road travel to Meymand.

Getting Around

Walkability

The village itself is very walkable but consists of narrow, stepped, and often uneven stone alleys and terraces. Good physical fitness and stable shoes are recommended. Outside the central cluster, distances to the nearest services may require a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Villagers

Predominantly Persian-speaking families who have lived in Meymand for generations, practicing agriculture, animal husbandry and local crafts.

Elderly Residents and Traditional Households

A notable proportion of older residents maintain traditional cave homes and skills, contributing to the village’s living cultural landscape.

Seasonal Workers / Visitors

At certain times there may be seasonal agricultural workers or a small number of tourists and researchers visiting the village.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport across Iran, including rural areas — informal matches and local interest are common.

Wrestling and Traditional Sports

Traditional Iranian wrestling and local strength-skill sports are culturally popular in rural regions and often followed with pride.

Equestrian and Herding Activities

Horse- and livestock-related skills are part of rural life; while not organized sports, horseback riding and herding are common activities in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Meymand itself is minimal; narrow alleys restrict vehicle access so walking is the norm inside the village. Public transport options are limited to occasional minibuses or shared taxis connecting to nearby towns; renting a car or arranging private transport from Kerman is the most practical way to reach Meymand and explore the surrounding area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Meymand.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are limited but possible: order rice with lentils, vegetable stews, fresh breads, salads and yogurt. Communicate clearly (using simple Persian phrases) that you don't eat meat; in very rural homes, be prepared for limited variety and to accept dairy or egg-based dishes.

Vegan / Gluten-free

Vegan and strict gluten-free diets are harder to accommodate due to frequent use of dairy and wheat-based breads. Bring snacks you trust and discuss needs with hosts or the nearest town restaurants in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Meymand is basic or minimal; for significant medical care you will likely need to travel to the nearest larger town or to Kerman city, which has hospitals and better-equipped clinics. Bring any prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit; check travel insurance for medical evacuation coverage if necessary.

Discover Iran

Read more in our Iran 2025 Travel Guide.

Iran Travel Guide