The Trans-Iranian Railway is a train that meanders from the sparkling shores of the Caspian Sea where water meets land, to the warm, productive plains surrounding the Persian Gulf.

This engineering and logistics masterpiece has transformed the way Iran connects internally and integrates with international trade, significantly shortening goods travel and transportation times.

Also known as the North-South Railway, it is a railway network that extends over 1,394 kilometers, crossing a diversity of terrains and climates. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, it has overcome geographical obstacles and technical challenges to forge a vital connection, between the imposing buildings of Tehran, the capital, to the tombs and mosques of Qom and the nomadic dwellings of the Zagros Mountains.

Its construction - between 1927 and 1938 - was designed and executed in a successful collaboration between the Iranian government and 43 contractors from various countries, with more than 70,000 workers. Over the years, natural obstacles such as mountains, rivers and deserts have been overcome by building 174 large bridges, 186 small bridges and 224 tunnels.

Its economic impact on the Silk Road and tourism:

The economic and social impact of the Trans-Iranian Railway has been profound, facilitating internal trade, connecting the various provinces and cities, which in turn has stimulated economic growth and investment in these areas. In addition, it has improved international connectivity, allowing Iran to become a strategic point on the modern Silk Road, promoting commercial exchange.

For tourists it offers a unique way to explore the country and experience its culture. With reasonable prices, its panoramic windows, its comfortable compartments and its on-board services, exploring the landscapes of Iran by train also means crossing four different climates on a journey that you will not forget.

For example, when you leave Tehran to go south, the weather changes in a matter of hours. And not only that, travelers also feel as if they have moved from one country to another, because the cultures and people are very different; We are talking about a complete change of scenery and even languages.

In a couple of hours those who make the journey will be invaded by:

• An initial freshness on the brilliant shores of the Caspian Sea with a temperate and humid climate that characterizes this region. The cool breeze and sea air create a relaxing environment to enjoy the panoramic views of the coast and surrounding mountains.
• As the train moves south, the vegetation gradually changes. You enter a semi-arid climate, where heat-resistant plants dominate the landscape. The views of the vast plains and rolling hills will accompany you on this trip stage. Despite the more arid conditions, the beauty of the desert is captivating.
• As the train rises, mountainous weather occurs. Snow-capped peaks and majestic mountains will paint a stunning backdrop as you traverse gravity-defying tunnels and bridges. Between Dorud and Arak the highest point of the railway network is reached, at more than 2,200 meters above sea level.
• Finally, the train will take you through one last climatic transformation, reaching the fertile plains near the Persian Gulf, where the climate becomes warmer and wetter. Palm trees and green crops will be a common sight as the final destination approaches. Sea breezes blow as the train glides toward the Persian Gulf.

Traveling by train in Iran takes you to the country's nature, passing through dozens of national parks and wildlife refuges, such as the Hyrcanian Forests.

Those who undertake this adventure on rails will also get to know the friendly and welcoming Iranian culture, for example a brief stop in Qom for travelers means regaining strength with some sohan, sweets made with flour, wheat grains and sugar.

From Persepolis in Shiraz, to the Grand Bazaar in Tehran, Iran is full of wonders waiting to be explored, and the best way to do so is aboard the Trans-Iranian Railway.