How to get to Gorgan

When planning a trip to Gorgan, you are choosing a journey into the "green heart" of Iran, located in the picturesque Golestan province. With its rich history and unique nature, this city attracts tourists with the opportunity to see ancient monuments and relict Hyrcanian forests. You can reach Gorgan in various ways: by using the local airport, rail connections, or the extensive network of roads.

The fastest way to reach the city is to take a direct flight to Gorgan Airport (GBT). This air hub receives domestic flights and is conveniently located relative to the urban area, allowing travellers to easily begin their exploration of the region.

If direct tickets are unavailable, a good alternative is flying to neighboring Sari (SRY), located approximately 127 km from the destination. You can also consider flight options via Noushahr or Bojnurd; however, these cities are over 260 km away, which will require additional time for ground transfer.

Travelling by train is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the views, as Gorgan is the terminal station of an important branch of the Trans-Iranian Railway. The city station receives trains from the capital and other regions, and the route, passing through mountain passes and forests, is considered one of the most picturesque in the country.

Rail connections also link the region with the neighbouring city of Sari, located 127 km to the west. For tourists arriving from more distant points, such as Bojnurd or Noushahr, direct rail service to Gorgan may not be available, so it is worth checking routes and schedules in advance.

Bus service in Iran is excellently developed, and a trip to Gorgan by bus is often the most budget-friendly and convenient option. Comfortable VIP buses with spacious seats and air conditioning regularly operate between major cities, making even a long journey non-tiring.

Modern highways provide a reliable link to the provincial centre, and travel time depends on the departure point. Tickets can usually be purchased directly at terminals, and thanks to the high frequency of trips, travellers rarely face a shortage of seats.

A trip by car offers freedom of movement and the chance to make stops in beautiful places. The most popular and shortest route leads from the city of Sari: the distance is about 131 km, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours on a good road.

For those travelling from the west, the road from the city of Noushahr (about 296 km) will take around 4.7 hours. If you are driving from the east, the route from the city of Bojnurd, covering about 305 km, will require approximately 4.5 hours behind the wheel.

To ensure your stay in Gorgan is as comfortable and safe as possible, it is worth familiarizing yourself with local cultural nuances and rules in advance. Here are some practical recommendations for preparing for your trip:

1. Clothing and Dress Code. Observe the local dress code: women must wear a headscarf (hijab) and loose clothing covering arms and legs, while men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
2. Transport. To move around the city, it is most convenient to use official taxis or local ride-hailing apps (similar to Uber), as public transport can be crowded.
3. Finances. International Visa and Mastercard cards do not work here. Be sure to carry a sufficient supply of cash (US Dollars or Euros) to exchange for local Rials at official exchange offices.
4. Health. It is recommended to drink only bottled water and be cautious with street food. Pharmacies in the city are well-stocked, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication. Not all locals speak English. Download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases in Persian (Farsi) and how to read numbers.
6. Local Etiquette. Remember "Taarof" — a complex system of politeness. If you are offered something for free, it is customary to politely refuse at first; accept only after a persistent repeated offer.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph government buildings, military sites, or police officers. Also, refrain from public displays of affection between couples.
8. Nature. Gorgan is famous for its nature, so be sure to set aside time to visit the Alangdarreh forest park, located just a few kilometres from the centre.

Following these simple rules will help you show respect for local traditions and enjoy the famous Iranian hospitality without any hassle.