Kandovan Village, Iran: Day Trip from Tabriz (January 2026)
Kandovan, a 700+ year-old troglodyte village carved into volcanic rock cones at the foot of Mount Sahand, offers Iran’s authentic “mini-Cappadocia”—still inhabited, less touristy, with stunning beehive-like homes.
~60km southwest of Tabriz (~1-1.5hr drive). Perfect day trip—wander narrow paths, peek into cave homes (respect privacy), chat with locals over tea.
Unique stays available at rocky hotels like Laleh Kandovan.
How to Get There (2026 Update)
No direct public buses to Kandovan—options from Tabriz:
Easiest: Private Taxi (Recommended)
- Round-trip from Tabriz (incl. 2-3hr wait): $15-30 USD (negotiate; hotels arrange ~$20-25).
- ~1.5hr scenic drive.
Budget Public Transport Route
- Taxi/shared taxi to Rahahan (Railway) Square (~$1-2).
- Minibus to Osku (~$0.30-0.50, 1hr).
- Taxi Osku ↔ Kandovan round-trip (incl. wait): $5-10.
Total: ~$8-15, but more hassle—shared taxis rare.
Car Entrance Fee: ~$0.50-1 (or walk in to skip).
Best Apr-Nov (mild); winters snowy. Combine with Tabriz sights.
Iran’s hidden gem—authentic & photogenic! Visa questions? Ask! 🏔️🏠