TEHRAN - Mashhad, the capital of Khorasan Razavi province, is one of Iran’s main domestic travel destinations, drawing millions of visitors each year for religious, cultural and leisure purposes.

The city is home to the shrine of Imam Reza (A.S.), the eighth Shia Imam, which makes the city a top pilgrimage destination and a focal point of Iran’s religious life. The steady flow of pilgrims has also shaped the city’s urban development, transport networks and accommodation sector.

Travel to Mashhad represents one of Iran’s largest domestic tourism movements, with visitors arriving year-round. Unlike many destinations that experience seasonal fluctuations, Mashhad receives continuous demand driven by religious observances and public holidays.

Urban planning and services in Mashhad have evolved around the shrine, which remains the city’s central landmark. Major roads, commercial districts and older neighborhoods have developed in close proximity to the site, reflecting its historical and spatial influence.

The city’s transport infrastructure has expanded to meet demand. Air travel is a primary access route, particularly for visitors from distant provinces. The Tehran–Mashhad route is Iran’s busiest domestic air corridor, with frequent daily flights operated throughout the year.

Accommodation options range from large hotels to guesthouses and furnished apartments, offering varying price levels and proximity to the shrine. Short-term rentals and family-oriented lodging have increased in recent years, reflecting changing travel patterns and longer stays.

Beyond pilgrimage, Mashhad offers parks, cultural centers and recreational facilities, many located outside the central shrine area. Authorities have promoted these sites to help manage congestion in the city center and encourage visitors to extend their stays.

Pilgrimage-driven tourism remains a key pillar of Mashhad’s economy, supporting sectors such as transport, hospitality and retail. Officials and planners face ongoing challenges including crowd management, service pricing and maintaining standards during peak periods.

Demand typically rises during religious occasions, national holidays and summer months, when transport capacity and accommodation prices come under pressure. Travel volumes decline at other times of the year, offering visitors a less crowded experience.
KD