Mashhad is the second-largest city in Iran and the capital of the Razavi Khorasan Province. It is one of the holiest cities in the Shia Islamic world and a major pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims. It is also home to many historical and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Here is a list of the top 20 places to see in Mashhad, Iran.
1. Imam Reza Shrine – This is the holiest site in Mashhad and the most important pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims. It is a complex of buildings and courtyards that houses the tomb of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam, and is one of the largest mosques in the world. The shrine also features a museum, library, and several other attractions.
2. Goharshad Mosque – This mosque was built by the wife of Shahrukh, the Timurid ruler of Iran, and is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the country. It is located in the Imam Reza Shrine complex and is decorated with intricate tilework and calligraphy.
3. Nader Shah Mausoleum – This mausoleum is dedicated to the founder of the Afsharid dynasty, Nader Shah. It is located in the courtyard of the Imam Reza Shrine and is decorated with beautiful tilework and carvings.
4. Ferdowsi Tomb – This is the tomb of the famous Persian poet Ferdowsi, who wrote the epic poem Shahnameh (The Book of Kings). The tomb is located in a garden outside the city and is a popular tourist attraction.
5. Torghabeh – This is a traditional bazaar located in the center of Mashhad. It is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.
6. Kalat-e-Naderi – This is an 18th-century palace built by Nader Shah and is now home to a museum and library. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Mashhad.
7. Mashhad International Airport – This is the main airport in Mashhad and serves as a hub for domestic and international flights. It is a modern facility with all the amenities and services that one would expect from an international airport.
8. Bogh'e-ye Vakil – This is a large park located in the center of Mashhad. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
9. Bazaar-e-Razavi – This is the largest bazaar in Mashhad and is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.
10. Mashhad Zoo – This is a great place to visit if you are looking for a fun day out with the family. It houses a variety of animals from around the world.
11. Tomb of Khajeh Rabi – This is the tomb of a famous Sufi saint and is located in the courtyard of the Imam Reza Shrine. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims.
12. Tomb of Khajeh Abol-Qasem Ferdowsi – This is the tomb of the famous Persian poet Ferdowsi and is located in a garden outside the city.
13. Tomb of Khajeh Abdollah Ansari – This is the tomb of a famous Sufi saint and is located in the courtyard of the Imam Reza Shrine.
14. Tomb of Khajeh Shams od-Din – This is the tomb of a famous Sufi saint and is located in the courtyard of the Imam Reza Shrine.
15. Tomb of Khajeh Moayed od-Din – This is the tomb of a famous Sufi saint and is located in the courtyard of the Imam Reza Shrine.
16. Mashhad Grand Bazaar – This is the largest bazaar in Mashhad and is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.
17. Golestan Palace – This is a palace complex that was built during the Qajar dynasty and is now home to a museum. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Mashhad.
18. Imam Reza Museum – This is a museum located in the Imam Reza Shrine complex and is dedicated to the life and teachings of Imam Reza. It features a variety of artifacts, manuscripts, and other items related to the Imam.
19. Astan-e Quds Razavi – This is a museum located in the Imam Reza Shrine complex and is dedicated to the life and teachings of Imam Reza. It features a variety of artifacts, manuscripts, and other items related to the Imam.
20. Khajeh Rabi Mosque – This is a mosque located in the courtyard of the Imam Reza Shrine and is dedicated to the famous Sufi saint Khajeh Rabi. It is decorated with intricate tilework and calligraphy.