Iran
General train travel information for IRAN. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
Iran's railway transportation history spans decades of development, starting with the establishment of the first railroad in 1887. From the earliest narrow gauge lines during the Qajar dynasty to the massive Trans-Iranian Railway launched in 1939, the country has invested heavily in its railroad infrastructure. During World War II, Iran's railroads played a key role in transporting materials for the Soviet Union through the so-called Persian Corridor.
The complex geography and mountainous terrain sometimes presented railroad workers with difficult challenges, including the construction of tunnels in difficult mountainous conditions. The railroad network is constantly expanding and improving, including various destinations, from neighboring countries in Central Asia to Turkey and Pakistan. Iran is striving not only to strengthen its national rail links, but also to establish important international transportation corridors linking it with other countries.
General Information and Statistics
The Islamic Republic of Iran Railways (abbreviated IRIR, or sometimes RAI) is the national state-owned railroad system of Iran.. The rail transportation network carries 29 million passengers annually in Iran (2011).
There are 16,998 kilometres of railway lines in Iran. There are 360 railroad stations in Iran.
146 kilometres of railway tracks electrified (Less than 1%).
What connections to other countries there are.
Iran's international railway network is connected to neighboring countries as follows:
• Afghanistan: There is an operational railway link with Afghanistan.
• Armenia: Currently, there is no direct railway connection with Armenia.
• Azerbaijan: A railway link exists via the Azerbaijani exclave Nakhchivan, and a connection to Azerbaijan proper is under construction.
• Iraq: Currently, there is no direct railway connection with Iraq.
• Pakistan: Iran has an operational railway link with Pakistan.
• Turkey: There is an operational railway connection with Turkey.
• Turkmenistan: Iran has an operational railway link with Turkmenistan.
Are trains fast in Iran in general? How much time to cross the country?
Train speed in Iran is not in a good condition compared to the world standard. At present, the majority of Iranian trains have an average speed of about 120 km. In ordinary Iranian trains, the train speed does not exceed 140 kilometers per hour.
The journey from Tehran to Mashhad takes 13:15 hours and from Tehran to Bandar Abbas 19:55 hours.
What railway companies are available?
Currently, there are 12 railway companies operating in Iran, offering rail transportation to many destinations in the country. The Iranian rail companies include Raja, Fadak, Bon Rail, Noor al Reza, Joopar, Rabad, Pars, Kosar Mahtab, Saba, Hastia and Vania Rail. Raja is the oldest and Fadak offers the most luxurious services. In addition, some companies provide rail freight services such as Joopar.
What train types are available in Iran
Iran's railway network is rapidly expanding, adding new destinations and services annually. New lines are being constructed to connect to neighboring countries and major cities. Notable trains include Noor, Ghazal, Fadak, Zendeghi, and more.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
It was said that the Tehran-Kom-Isfahan high-speed railroad is the first truly high-speed rail project in Iran. Construction began on February 25, 2015 and is scheduled to be completed in 2023. This rail line will reduce the travel time between Tehran and Isfahan to 2 hours.
• FADAK 5-Star Train: With three classes and 5-star amenities, FADAK is Iran's most luxurious train. Catering matches top restaurants, and meals are included in the ticket price.
• ZENDEGI Train: A 5-star option ideal for family trips, Zendegi Train offers full-board tickets with diverse Iranian and French cuisine.
• VIP "Ghazaal Bonyad" Train: Experience luxury and quality with VIP tickets on this high-speed train, offering enhanced services and comfort.
• Raja Green Ploor Train: 4-seater compartments with air conditioning, TV, and power outlets make Raja Green Ploor Train a convenient choice.
• Noor Train: With 4-star quality, Noor trains provide new cars, quality services, and options for special and VIP classes.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway stations in Iran are Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Tabriz, Shiraz, Ahvaz, Qom, Kerman, Yazd, Bandar Abbas.
Websites to buy train tickets for Iran?
https://www.raja.ir/, https://iranrail.net/
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Iran?
There is no mobile application for buying railway tickets.
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Iran?
If you are already in Iran, you can go to a travel agency and book your ticket through them, book your ticket at the train station, or perhaps ask your hotel or host to do it for you.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
There is no possibility to buy train tickets by phone call.
Return the ticket.
Refunds are available at Iran's main railway stations in rials, payable in cash to the bearer of the ticket. The penalty is 30% up to 3 hours before train departure and 50% in case of request between 3 hours before train departure. No refunds will be made after the departure of the train.
Train ticket prices
Trains are an affordable choice for traveling around Iran. Depending on the distance, travel time and type of train, the ticket price varies from 7 to 50 €.
You can buy tickets for most long-distance journeys within Germany for as little as EUR 12 - even on major routes such as Tehran to Mashad.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
The train journey from Tehran to Van offers a unique travel experience between Iran and Turkey. However, there are two weekly options: the Transasia Express departing Wednesdays and the Tehran-Van train departing Sundays. These journeys provide a chance to explore untouristed destinations and enjoy scenic landscapes. The train journey takes you from Tehran to Van, a small city surrounded by a picturesque lake. Departure times are 22:05 on Wednesdays and 13:00 on Sundays, arriving at 20:00 on Thursdays and 11:00 on Mondays, respectively. The price includes train tickets, bedding, and taxes, while private expenses, food, and drinks are excluded. Prices start from 50 Euros.
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://iranrail.net/locatetrains.php
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
Tickets for most Iranian trains are sold out well in advance, so you should plan your trip in advance and purchase tickets quickly. To guarantee a seat on a train for holidays such as Nowruz or Ashura, book your tickets at least a month in advance.
Types of tickets.
Types of rail tickets that are available in Iran:
• Economy Class: Economy Class tickets provide basic amenities and may include sleeper cars with multiple bunks or saloon cars with seats.
• Private Compartment: Private compartment tickets provide a more private space for traveling in sleeping cars.
• Double-Decker Seating Car: Double-Decker Parlor Car tickets that provide comfortable seating for passengers.
• 4-Bed Sleeping Car: Tickets for 4-bed sleeping cars where passengers can rest in privacy.
• 6-Bed Couchette (6-Bed Sleeping Car): Tickets for 6-bed sleeping cars that provide a more economical option for travel.
• Special Class: Some trains may offer special classes with additional amenities and services.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Iran
Interrail/Eurail Passes are not available in Iran.
Saver price.
There are no so-called "Saver price" tickets in Iran.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.
Flexible tickets.
Flexible tickets are not available in Iran.
Rules of boarding.
Online ticket purchase is not transferable to others, and passengers will not be accepted if their name doesn't match with the ID card.
Discounts for group travel.
There are no discounts for group travel by train in Iran.
Age groups and discounts.
Half-price tickets are issued for children from 0 to 12 years. Currently tickets for infants are not available for foreigners. Every person needs a ticket and will get a seat/bed. Children below the age of 12 must travel together with an adult person.
Age limitations for minors.
Children from 12 years of age can travel unaccompanied.
Handicapped passengers.
For 2020, about 50 passenger trains were equipped for people with disabilities, and special lifting devices for such people are provided at intermediate stations.
Seat reservations in trains in Iran.
Due to the high demand for transportation and the low number of trains on some routes, it is strongly recommended to book your tickets as early as possible, especially if you want to travel with high-quality night trains or Pardis express trains. You can easily check the availability of your desired trip in the timetable search. If tickets run out or there are a few days left before departure, you can make an express reservation.
Comfort classes on the trains.
Train Travel Comfort Classes in Iran:
• Economy Class: Basic class offering affordable travel options.
• First Class: Provides a higher level of comfort and privacy compared to economy class.
• VIP Class: Offers a premium travel experience with enhanced amenities.
• Special Class: Provides extra amenities and services for an exclusive experience.
• Double-Decker Seating Car: Features comfortable seats with scenic views.
• Couchette Class: Offers multiple berths for convenient overnight travel.
• Restaurant Car: Provides meals and refreshments onboard.
• Lounge Car: Offers a relaxing space for socializing and unwinding.
Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Iran.
Meal options on Iranian trains can vary depending on the type of train and the length of the trip. Here's what you can usually expect in terms of meals on Iranian trains:
• Long-distance trains:
Long-distance trains, especially overnight trains, usually have dining cars. In these carriages, passengers can purchase food and beverages during the trip. The quality and variety of food may vary depending on the railroad company and the specific route.
• Shorter trips:
Shorter trains may not have dedicated dining cars. However, some trains offer cart services in which vendors walk around the train and sell snacks, drinks and light meals to passengers in their seats.
Night trains in Iran?
Overnight trains in Iran provide sleeping accommodations for passengers to travel long distances while sleeping. They offer different levels of comfort and amenities, including bedding and temperature control. Due to their popularity, it is recommended to book tickets in advance. Overnight trains connect major cities, offering convenience and time savings. Some trains may offer catering, but details are being verified.
Important train routes in Iran.
Tehran – Mashhad / 11:00 hours / from 12.00 EUR / Every 30 minutes
Tehran - Tabriz / 10:22 hours / from 20.00 EUR /1 train a day
Tehran - Yazd / 8:00 hours / from 6.20 EUR / Every 4 hours
Tehran - Bandar Abbas / 19:55 hours / 2 trains a day
Tehran - Kerman / 9:55 hours / 2 trains a day
International train routes.
Iran's international railway network is connected to neighboring countries as follows:
• Afghanistan: There is an operational railway link with Afghanistan.
• Armenia: Currently, there is no direct railway connection with Armenia.
• Azerbaijan: A railway link exists via the Azerbaijani exclave Nakhchivan, and a connection to Azerbaijan proper is under construction.
• Iraq: Currently, there is no direct railway connection with Iraq.
• Pakistan: Iran has an operational railway link with Pakistan.
• Turkey: There is an operational railway connection with Turkey.
• Turkmenistan: Iran has an operational railway link with Turkmenistan.
Tourist / scenic routes in Iran.
There are some of the most scenic and picturesque train routes along the Trans-Iranian Railway that offer captivating journeys for tourists:
• North Branch - Tehran to Gorgan:
Experience a 10-hour journey from Tehran to Gorgan through various landscapes. Pass through the Semnan desert and Garmsar's salt mines. Enjoy the eerie rock formations known as "Doodkesh-e Jenn" (genie's chimney). Traverse the Alborz mountains, witness the fascinating Se Khat-e Tala (3 golden lines) section, and be amazed by the iconic Veresk Bridge. Pass through the lush Hyrcanian forest in Shirgah and the Mazandaran Plain.
• South Branch - Tehran to Ahvaz:
Embark on a 15-hour journey from Tehran to Ahvaz. Travel through semi-desert areas, cross the majestic Zagros mountains, and enter the fertile Khuzestan Plain. Enjoy the mesmerizing landscapes along the route, including the beautiful Zagros mountain ranges, waterfalls, and canyons.
• Tabriz to Razi Border Point:
Journey towards the Iran-Turkey border at Razi station from Tabriz. Experience the stunning scenery around Lake Urmia, where the train tracks run along the north coast. Pass by the renowned Ghotour Bridge, an impressive architectural feat.
• Qazvin to Rasht:
Enjoy a delightful trip from Qazvin to Rasht, passing through high plateaus and stunning snowy landscapes in winter, and lush green fields in spring. Cross the Sefidrud river multiple times, offering picturesque views, and arrive in the hospitable city of Rasht.
• Tehran to Tabriz:
Travel from Tehran to Tabriz, experiencing the unique station buildings and structures along the way. Pass through the mountainous region, witness the Qezel Ozan river, and catch glimpses of historical bridges such as Pole Dokhtar. Admire the architecture and heritage of various stations, including Sarcham and Maragheh.
Luggage information.
Passengers traveling on all Iranian railroads are allowed to carry luggage weighing up to 30 kg free of charge in a compartment. If your luggage is larger than 70 × 70 and weighs more than 30 kg, it must be checked at the cargo counter.
Bicycle on the train.
Bicycles can be transported on most long-distance trains, with the exception of Pardis express trains. To do so, you must book a regular ticket for each passenger and then report to the station before departure at least one hour in advance at major stations and half an hour in advance at minor stations. Please go to the information desk. The station staff will decide whether to transport bicycles in the baggage car (if available) or on the platform of the passenger car. A small fee may be charged for transportation.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
It is no problem to take your skis or snowboard with you on a Deutsche Bahn train at no extra charge. Put them in a baggage area, not in the aisle.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Iran.
The railway station in Tehran and the bus terminals have left luggage facility.
Lost and Found Items.
There is no separate lost and found service on Iranian trains, please contact the station service for assistance.
Pets on the trains.
Pets are not allowed on trains and buses. If you want to travel with a cat or dog, you will need to hire a private cab.
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