Located in the northeastern part of Iran, Khorasan Razavi province has a dry, cold climate. Its capital, Mashhad, is a significant religious destination for Muslims, especially Shia, as it is home to the shrine of Imam Reza. Although this province’s landscapes may not be lush and green, it has its unique and interesting attractions.
Imam Reza Holy Shrine
The Imam Reza Holy Shrine holds immense significance for Shia Muslims. The shrine is not only a place of religious importance but also showcases breathtaking manmade architecture with a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Kang Village
Kang is a picturesque village near Mashhad, nestled in the mountains. One fascinating feature of the village is its houses—the roof of one house serves as the yard of another. These photos show Kang in the spring.
Here is Kang village again, but in autumn. In the photo, you can see my son playing on the ground, which is actually the roof of a house!
Wild Judas Trees
These purple-flowered trees are wild Judas trees along the road from Mashhad to Kang. The photos were taken in mid-April, around one month into spring in Iran. Though the trees are scattered, they stand out with their beauty, growing wild among the rocks.
Plum Drying Season in Mohsen Abad
In the village of Mohsen Abad, near Neyshabur, autumn is the season for drying plums. As you can see in the photos, plum drying is done by hand, following traditional methods, even picked plums are carried at the back of an adopted motorcycle. I was tempted to eat all those golden plums before they even had a chance to dry!
Zoshk Village
Zoshk, an area near Mashhad, is filled with fruit orchards, sometimes separated by low stone walls, as you can see in the photo. I was surprised to be offered to pick sour cherries in autumn by a generous local farmer.
Akhangan Rod
This is Akhangan Rod, built in the 9th century AH, now located beside a road near Mashhad. Driving through Iran, you’ll come across many structures like this, each a masterpiece in its own right. The intricate tilework at the top of the tower is an example of the artistry these historical structures hold.
Miniature Park in Mashhad
Miniature Park, located in Mashhad, is a wonderful place for children to learn about Iran’s historical structures. You can get a sense of scale by comparing the models to my 3-year-old son’s height. From left to right, you’ll see the Gonbad Sabz (Mashhad), Kandovan Village (Tabriz), Arge Bam (Bam), and Ferdowsi’s Tomb (Mashhad).