How to get to Sanandaj

When planning a trip to Sanandaj, you are setting off for the colourful capital of the Kurdistan province, located in the west of Iran. Surrounded by picturesque mountains, this ancient city attracts travellers with its rich culture and authentic atmosphere. Figuring out how to get to Sanandaj is quite simple: a developed transport network allows you to choose a convenient route by plane, intercity bus, or car.

The fastest way to reach Sanandaj is by air. The city is served by Sanandaj Airport (SDG), which handles regular domestic flights and ensures reliable connections with the region's major transport hubs. The terminal is located very close to the city limits, so the transfer to the centre takes minimal time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities, from where it is easy to reach your destination by car. The nearest convenient alternative is Kermanshah, located approximately 110 kilometres away, or Hamadan. The Iraqi city of Sulaymaniyah is also relatively close; however, this option is suitable only for travellers prepared to cross the state border.

Travelling to Sanandaj by train became possible thanks to the opening of a new railway line in 2023. A modern station connects the capital of the Kurdistan province with the national network via Hamadan, allowing tourists to choose this comfortable and safe mode of transport for trips from Tehran and other major cities.

The journey offers unforgettable impressions: the route passes through scenic mountain ranges, revealing views often inaccessible from the highway. Upon arrival at the station, travellers can easily reach the city centre by taxi or local transport.

Bus services connect the capital of Kurdistan with many regional centres, offering tourists picturesque views from the window and affordable prices. A trip from neighbouring Kermanshah will take just about two hours, covering a distance of approximately 135 kilometres along winding mountain roads. The route from historic Hamadan is also popular: buses cover the 175 kilometres in an average of two and a half to three hours, ensuring a comfortable journey.

For those planning to arrive from the west, there is an option to travel by scheduled transport from the Iraqi city of Sulaymaniyah. The distance between the cities is about 200 kilometres, though the total travel time depends heavily on the speed of border control procedures. Iranian intercity buses, especially the VIP class, are usually equipped with air conditioning and wide reclining seats, making the trip a pleasant part of your adventure.

Travelling by car turns into a true excursion along the picturesque mountain winding roads of Kurdistan. The shortest route leads from Kermanshah: the distance of 133 kilometres can be comfortably covered in just 2 hours. A trip from historic Hamadan will take slightly longer — about 2.5 hours to cover 173 kilometres on a high-quality highway.

For those heading from the direction of Iraq, the path from Sulaymaniyah will be approximately 243 kilometres and will require more than 4 hours on the road, excluding time for border crossing. Collective taxis known as "savari" actively operate between cities, offering budget travel with payment per seat, as well as private drivers ready to take you to your destination in a "darbast" format (hiring the whole car) for a negotiated price.

Preparing for your trip to Sanandaj will help make your journey as comfortable and safe as possible. Here are several useful recommendations that will come in handy during your stay in this hospitable corner of Iran, known for its unique Kurdish culture.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: Sanandaj is located in a mountainous area, so the climate here is cooler than in the central part of the country. In winter, a warm jacket and waterproof shoes are mandatory due to snow, while in summer, light clothing is sufficient, though evenings can be fresh. Do not forget the national Islamic dress code: women wear a headscarf and clothing covering the figure down to the mid-thigh, and men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to move around the city is by taxi. Both official yellow cars and local equivalents of online services (such as Snapp) are common here. For trips between districts, you can use route taxis, known locally as "taxi-khatti" — this is inexpensive and allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
3. Finances: International bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) do not work in the country, so it is necessary to carry a sufficient supply of cash (US Dollars or Euros) for exchange. Exchange money at specialized exchange offices ("sarrafi"). Be attentive to prices: the official currency is the Rial, but in speech and on price tags, locals often use the "Toman" (1 Toman = 10 Rials). Always clarify which unit the amount is stated in.
4. Health and Safety: The city is calm and safe for tourists; however, drinking tap water is not recommended — it is better to buy bottled water. Pharmacies are well-stocked, but if you take specific prescription medications, bring them with you in their original packaging.
5. Communication: The main language of communication for locals is Kurdish (Sorani dialect), but almost everyone speaks Persian (Farsi) fluently. English is not widely spoken, so it is recommended to download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases of greeting and gratitude in Farsi or Kurdish — this will greatly endear you to the people.
6. Local Etiquette: Kurds are famous for their incredible hospitality. If you are invited into a home, it is customary to remove your shoes at the threshold. Refusing tea or refreshments may be perceived as impolite, so it is better to accept the offer, even if you eat very little.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph government institutions, military facilities, and police stations. Also, refrain from public displays of affection (kissing and hugging) on the street, as this contradicts local social norms.
8. Culinary Tip: Be sure to try "kalane" — a traditional Kurdish flatbread with herbs, cooked on large metal disks right on the street. This is not just food, but an important part of the local gastronomic experience, especially delicious when paired with a homemade yogurt drink (doogh).

Observing these simple rules will allow you to avoid awkward situations and focus on the main thing — exploring the rich traditions and enjoying the scenic views of mountainous Kurdistan.