Things To Do
in Taft

Charcoal-grilled kebabs served with saffron rice (chelo) are a staple; find them at family-run restaurants and roadside grills.

Must-Try!

Traditional Persian stews with herbs, beans and/or pomegranate-walnut sauce; served over rice and available at local eateries.

Though associated with nearby Yazd city, these pastries and confections are widely available in Taft—look for small sweet shops and bakeries.

Taft’s orchards produce tasty pomegranates and pistachios; seasonal fresh fruit and local dried fruit mixes are commonly sold.

Small town market selling fresh produce, nuts, spices, and sweets; a good place to sample seasonal fruit and buy dried fruit and local confections.

Seasonal stands offering freshly picked pomegranates, figs and other fruit; ideal for tasting local produce in season.

Dress conservatively: women should wear a headscarf, long sleeves and long trousers or a loose coat (manteau); men should avoid shorts in public—respect local conservative norms.

Remove shoes when entering mosques, speak quietly near religious sites, and avoid visiting during prayer times if unsure—follow signage and local guidance.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women; avoid photographing government buildings or military sites.

Accepting tea or small offers from hosts is polite; guests are often treated warmly—reciprocate with gratitude and modest gifts if invited to a home.

Tipping is appreciated but modest—round small bills up in cafés, leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, and offer a small tip to drivers or guides for good service.

Cash in Iranian rial (IRR) is king in Taft; many small shops do not accept foreign cards. Domestic debit/credit cards are common, but international cards and mobile payments are generally not usable due to sanctions—carry sufficient cash and change. ATMs are available in larger towns and in Yazd city.

Pleasant temperatures and flowering orchards—one of the best times to visit for comfortable hiking and seeing pomegranates beginning to develop.

Hot and dry in the plains; daytime heat can be intense—early morning and late afternoon outdoor activities recommended, and higher elevations on Shirkuh are cooler.

Mild days and cooler nights with harvest season for many fruits—good for photography, orchard visits and outdoor exploration.

Cool to cold, especially at night and on the mountain slopes—occasional frost and colder conditions at higher elevations, so pack warm layers.

The most prominent nearby mountain offering foothill routes and more challenging ascents for experienced hikers—great views, varied terrain and cooler temperatures at elevation.

Gentle trails through orchards, irrigation channels and small valleys around Taft—ideal for relaxed walks, photography and observing rural life.

Short hikes and drives toward desert plains near the town provide sweeping vistas, geological features and opportunities for sunrise/sunset photography.

Paths that follow traditional qanat channels and water distribution ditches—historically and visually interesting routes that illustrate local water management.

Vegetarian options exist (rice dishes, eggplant stews, bean-based dishes and salads), but menus often center on meat—ask staff for meat-free stews (khoresht) or vegetable plates.

Vegan choices are more limited; plain rice, vegetable stews and salads are usually available but check for butter or yogurt in certain dishes and request no dairy.

All food is prepared in accordance with Islamic dietary laws; halal meat is standard and pork is not served.

Nuts are prevalent—especially pistachios and walnuts—so inform hosts or restaurant staff about nut allergies and double-check sweets and rice dishes.