Qom Province

Most nationalities require a visa. Citizens of a few countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport (IKA). Check Iranian MFA website for current list. Visa-free travel is possible for some nationalities; Israeli passport holders are not admitted.

Women must wear a loose-fitting manteau (coat) and headscarf covering hair and neck. At holy shrines, a chador is mandatory and available free. Men must wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves; shorts are unacceptable. Non-compliance can lead to formal warnings or detention.

No. Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout Iran. Possession or consumption carries severe penalties. Non-alcoholic beer and traditional drinks like doogh are widely available.

Yes. Many international social media platforms, news sites, and messaging apps (like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube) are blocked. A VPN is often used by locals and visitors to access blocked content, but installing one before arrival is wise as some VPN websites are also filtered.

The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), though prices are often quoted in Toman (1 Toman = 10 Rials). International credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) do not work. Bring euros, US dollars, or pounds in cash and exchange at official bureaux.

Generally yes, but strict dress code must be observed at all times. Harassment is less common than in some cities, but staring can occur. Avoid isolated areas after dark and dress even more conservatively than required to deflect attention.

Photography inside the shrine complex is restricted. Permission must be obtained from shrine officials; without it, you risk confiscation of equipment or detainment. Photography of military or government buildings is forbidden.

Explore the salt lake of Howz-e Soltan, the ancient caravanserai of Dastjerd, or the desert village of Kahak. Jamkaran Mosque, just outside Qom, is an important nightly pilgrimage site. Do not miss the Fire Temple of Qom for a glimpse of pre-Islamic history.

Sohan (a saffron brittle toffee) is Qom’s signature sweet. Savory dishes include dizi (lamb and chickpea stew), various kebabs, and ash-e reshteh (noodle soup). Tea houses serve Persian tea with rock sugar or dates.

English is not widely spoken outside hotels. Learning a few Farsi phrases will be appreciated. Street signs are mostly in Persian script, so carrying a translation app or phrasebook is helpful.

Most nationalities require a visa for Iran. Check with the Iranian embassy or consulate in your country. A visa on arrival is available for some nationalities at major airports.

Non-Muslims are generally not allowed inside the main shrine building, but you can visit the outer courtyards and complex. Dress modestly and be respectful.

The Iranian Rial (IRR) is the official currency. However, prices are often quoted in Toman (1 Toman = 10 Rials). Credit cards are not accepted; bring cash (euros or US dollars) to exchange.

No, alcohol is strictly prohibited in Iran. Do not attempt to bring or consume alcohol.

Persian (Farsi) is the official language. English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Persian phrases is helpful.

Photography is generally allowed in public areas, but it is prohibited inside shrines and near military or government buildings. Always ask permission before photographing people.

Internet access is available but can be slow and filtered. Many social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) are blocked. A VPN is recommended for accessing blocked sites.

Yes, but roaming charges can be high. It is better to buy a local SIM card from Irancell or Hamrahe Aval at the airport or local shops.

Women must wear a chador (full-body cloak) which is often provided at the entrance of shrines. Men should wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.

Tap water is chlorinated but may cause stomach upset for visitors. It is safer to drink bottled water, which is widely available.

The train is the fastest and most comfortable option, taking about 1.5 hours. Buses and shared taxis are also available and take around 2 hours.