Bandar Abbas (BND)

DATE: Mar 16, 2025 | Published by: alboshokeh rasmi's team

Bandar Abbas (BND) is a port city in southern Iran and the capital of Hormozgan Province. It is located on the Persian Gulf coast, strategically positioned near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important maritime passages. The city serves as Iran’s major commercial port, handling a significant portion of the country’s imports and exports. Bandar Abbas has a hot and humid climate, with scorching summers and mild winters. It is also known for its seafood, traditional markets, and cultural diversity, influenced by its historical connections to trade and maritime activities.

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Bandar Abbas (BND): Nearby Cities to Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas (BND) is surrounded by several important cities and towns in Hormozgan Province and neighboring regions. Some of the closest cities include:

Qeshm – Located on Qeshm Island, about 22 km from Bandar Abbas, it is the largest island in the Persian Gulf and a major tourist and trade hub.
Minab – Approximately 95 km to the east, Minab is known for its traditional markets, agriculture, and historical sites.
Bandar Lengeh – About 190 km to the west, this coastal city is another important port with a history of maritime trade.
Hajiabad – Located 135 km north of Bandar Abbas, it is known for its cooler climate and citrus farms.
Kish Island – Around 250 km away, Kish is a popular tourist destination and a free trade zone with luxury resorts and shopping centers.

These cities contribute to the economic, cultural, and touristic significance of Bandar Abbas and the entire Hormozgan Province.

Bandar Abbas (BND): Climate of Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas (BND), located in southern Iran along the Persian Gulf, has a hot desert climate (BWh in the Köppen climate classification). Due to its proximity to the sea and its low elevation, the city experiences high temperatures, high humidity, and minimal rainfall throughout the year. Below is a detailed breakdown of Bandar Abbas' climate:

1. Temperature

Summer (June – September): Summers in Bandar Abbas are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Combined with high humidity, the heat index can feel even more intense. The sea breeze provides some relief, but the overall conditions remain harsh.
Winter (December – February): Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15-25°C (59-77°F). This period is the best time for tourism, as the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.
Spring (March – May) & Autumn (October – November): These seasons are transitional, with temperatures gradually rising or falling. Spring is warm, while autumn starts off hot and gradually cools down.

2. Humidity & Rainfall

Bandar Abbas (BND) experiences high humidity levels, often exceeding 70-80%, especially in summer. This increases the feeling of heat and makes conditions uncomfortable.
Rainfall is scarce, with an annual average of around 150-200 mm. The rainy season typically occurs in winter, especially between December and February, when occasional short but heavy rain showers and thunderstorms occur.

3. Wind & Dust Storms

The city is sometimes affected by seasonal winds, including the Shamal wind, which can bring dust and sandstorms from the north.
During summer, a phenomenon called Gav-Koosh (high humidity combined with heat) occurs, making the air feel even hotter and more stifling.

4. Best Time to Visit

Due to the extreme summer heat, the best time to visit Bandar Abbas is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing, beach activities, and exploring the nearby islands.

Bandar Abbas (BND): Top Tourist Attractions in Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas (BND), the largest port city in Iran, is known for its beautiful coastline, rich history, and cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the Persian Gulf and offers a mix of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant local markets. Here are some of the best places to visit in Bandar Abbas:

1. Galleh-Dari Bathhouse (Hammam-e Galleh-Dari)

A historical Persian bathhouse dating back to the Safavid era, Galleh-Dari Bathhouse showcases traditional Persian architecture with beautiful tilework. It has now been converted into an anthropology museum, displaying artifacts related to the local culture.

2. Hindu Temple of Bandar Abbas

Built in 1892 during the Qajar era, this Hindu temple is a unique cultural landmark that reflects the historical trade connections between Iran and India. The distinctive Indian-style architecture makes it one of the most unusual buildings in the city.

3. Bandar Abbas Grand Bazaar (Old Bazaar)

For a glimpse into local life and culture, visit the bustling Bandar Abbas Bazaar. You’ll find handicrafts, spices, traditional clothing, and fresh seafood. This market is a great place to experience local Persian Gulf culture.

4. Coastal Boulevard & Seafront (Bandar Abbas Beach)

Bandar Abbas (BND) boasts a beautiful coastline along the Persian Gulf. The Coastal Boulevard is a great spot to enjoy sunset views, fresh seafood, and local street food stalls. It's a favorite place for locals and tourists alike to relax by the sea.

5. Geno Hot Springs & Geno Protected Area

Located about 34 km north of Bandar Abbas, the Geno Hot Springs are known for their therapeutic properties. The surrounding Geno Protected Area is home to rare plant and animal species, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists.

6. Hara (Mangrove) Forests of Qeshm (Near Bandar Abbas)

A short boat ride from Bandar Abbas, the Hara Forests in Qeshm Island offer a fascinating experience. These mangrove forests are home to rare bird species and marine life, making them an excellent spot for eco-tourism and birdwatching.

7. Laft Historical Village (Near Bandar Abbas)

Located on Qeshm Island, Laft Village is famous for its traditional wind towers (Badgirs) and historic architecture. It’s a living museum of Persian Gulf history, offering a unique look into the past.

8. Hormuz Island & Rainbow Mountains (Short trip from Bandar Abbas)

One of Iran’s most stunning natural wonders, Hormuz Island is known for its red beaches, rainbow-colored mountains, and surreal landscapes. A short ferry ride from Bandar Abbas, this island is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

9. Portuguese Castle (Qeshm & Hormuz Islands)

The Portuguese Castle, located on both Qeshm and Hormuz Islands, dates back to the 16th century when the Portuguese ruled parts of the Persian Gulf. The well-preserved fort offers historical insights and stunning sea views.

10. Dolphins Bay in Hengam Island (Near Bandar Abbas)

A boat trip to Hengam Island offers a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. The island is also known for its crystal-clear waters, silver beaches, and unique marine life.

Bandar Abbas (BND): Souvenirs and Handicrafts of Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas (BND), as one of Iran’s most important port cities, offers a diverse range of traditional souvenirs and handicrafts. These items reflect the rich culture, history, and lifestyle of the Persian Gulf region. Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy when visiting Bandar Abbas:

1. Traditional Handicrafts

Mat Weaving (Hasir Bafi)

One of the most famous handicrafts of Bandar Abbas is Hasir Bafi, or mat weaving, made from palm leaves. Local artisans create baskets, mats, bags, and decorative items using traditional techniques.

Embroidery (Golabetoon-Douzi & Khos-Douzi)

Golabetoon-Douzi and Khos-Douzi are traditional embroidery techniques used to decorate women’s clothing, scarves, and tablecloths with golden and silver threads. These finely crafted textiles are an important part of Hormozgan’s cultural heritage.

Clay Pottery & Ceramic Art

The pottery of Bandar Abbas is unique, with designs inspired by Persian Gulf motifs. These handcrafted pots, dishes, and decorative items make for great souvenirs.

Wooden Ship Models (Lenj-Making Art)

Since Bandar Abbas (BND) has a strong maritime culture, handcrafted wooden models of traditional Persian Gulf ships (Lenj boats) are a unique souvenir. These boats were historically used for fishing and trade in the region.

2. Local Spices & Herbs

The spices of Bandar Abbas (BND) are some of the best souvenirs you can bring back. Popular Persian Gulf spices include:

Red and Black Pepper
Turmeric
Cardamom
Cumin
Dried Lime (Limo Amani)

These spices are widely used in southern Iranian cuisine, giving dishes their distinct aromatic and flavorful taste.

3. Traditional Sweets & Snacks

Ranginak

A delicious date-based dessert made with flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and powdered sugar. This sweet treat is a staple in Bandar Abbas and the Persian Gulf region.

Mahyawa (Mihyawa Sauce)

A traditional Hormozgani sauce made from fermented fish, spices, and flour. This unique condiment is often eaten with bread and is a must-try for those who love authentic southern Iranian flavors.

Dates & Date-Based Products

Bandar Abbas is known for its high-quality dates, including Mazafati, Piarom, and Kabkab dates. Date-based products like date syrup and date cookies are also popular souvenirs.

Faloodeh Bandar Abbas

Unlike the famous Faloodeh Shirazi, this version is made with thin rice noodles, date syrup, and aromatic herbs, giving it a unique taste.

4. Persian Gulf Sea Products

Dried Fish & Seafood

Since Bandar Abbas is a major fishing hub, it offers high-quality dried fish, shrimp, and squid. These are great souvenirs for seafood lovers who want to bring home a taste of the Persian Gulf.

Pearls & Coral Jewelry

Bandar Abbas has a long history of pearl diving. You can find beautiful handmade pearl necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, as well as jewelry made from coral and seashells.

5. Local Traditional Clothing

Bandari Clothing

Women’s traditional Bandari dresses are known for their bright colors, embroidery, and mirror work. These dresses are often paired with decorative face masks (Boreg), which are a significant part of Hormozgan’s cultural identity.

Men’s Traditional Attire

Men in Bandar Abbas often wear long white robes (Dishdasha) and turbans, which reflect the Persian Gulf’s Arab-influenced fashion.

Bandar Abbas (BND): Distances from Bandar Abbas to Major Cities in Iran

Here are the approximate distances between Bandar Abbas and key cities in Iran:

Bandar Abbas to Shiraz → 570 km (~7-8 hours by car)
Bandar Abbas to Tehran → 1,300 km (~14-15 hours by car, ~1.5-hour flight)
Bandar Abbas to Northern Iran (Mazandaran, Gilan, Golestan) → 1,400-1,600 km (~16-18 hours by car)
Bandar Abbas to Mashhad → 1,390 km (~16-17 hours by car, ~2-hour flight)
Bandar Abbas to Ahvaz → 960 km (~10-11 hours by car)

These distances may vary slightly depending on the exact route taken. If you're traveling by air, flights are available between Bandar Abbas and most of these cities, significantly reducing travel time.

Bandar Abbas (BND): History of Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas, one of Iran's most important port cities, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. This coastal city, located along the Persian Gulf, has been a key center for trade and maritime activities since ancient times.

Historically, the area was known as Gombrun, a name given by the Portuguese when they occupied the region in the early 16th century. In 1622, the Safavid Empire, with the help of the British, expelled the Portuguese and renamed the city Bandar Abbas, in honor of Shah Abbas I, who played a significant role in reclaiming the port.

Over the centuries, Bandar Abbas developed into a major trade hub due to its strategic location along important maritime routes. It served as a gateway for commerce, spice trade, and cultural exchange between Persia, India, and the Arabian Peninsula.

Today, Bandar Abbas remains Iran's largest commercial port, hosting the main naval base, shipyards, and industrial zones while continuing its legacy as a vibrant trade center.

Bandar Abbas (BND): Local Dishes of Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas, with its rich cultural heritage and coastal location, offers a variety of unique and flavorful local dishes influenced by Persian, Indian, and Arabian cuisines. The use of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and tropical ingredients makes the city's cuisine both diverse and delicious. Here are some of the most famous traditional dishes:

1. Mahyaveh

A traditional fermented fish sauce, Mahyaveh is made from small fish (anchovies), salt, and spices. It is commonly eaten with bread and is a staple in the region’s diet.

2. Zibooni

A delicious rice dish with shrimp, cooked with spices, turmeric, and local herbs. It’s a favorite among seafood lovers.

3. Havari

A flavorful dish made with rice, fish, and aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. This dish reflects the deep influence of Indian flavors in Bandar Abbas cuisine.

4. Ghalieh Mahi

One of the most famous Persian seafood stews, Ghalieh Mahi is made with fish, tamarind, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs like cilantro and fenugreek. It has a tangy and spicy taste that pairs perfectly with rice.

5. Poodini Kooseh

A unique dish made from shark meat, which is first dried and then cooked with spices, garlic, and lemon. It is considered a delicacy in Bandar Abbas.

6. Ankas

A popular dish prepared with squid, cooked in a flavorful sauce made of tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It is often served with rice.

7. Ranginak

A traditional dessert made with dates, walnuts, and a special roasted flour mixture, giving it a rich and sweet taste.

8. Tomshi

A simple yet delicious local bread, often served with butter, cheese, or Mahyaveh. It is a popular breakfast choice in Bandar Abbas.

The cuisine of Bandar Abbas reflects the city's coastal environment, cultural diversity, and historical connections with other regions. If you visit, trying these traditional dishes is a must!

Bandar Abbas (BND): Bandar Abbas International Airport

Bandar Abbas International Airport (IATA code: BND, ICAO code: OIKB) is one of Iran’s most important airports, located in Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan province. The airport is situated along Imam Khomeini Boulevard and 15 Khordad Boulevard, approximately 5.8 km from the city center.

Airport Specifications:

Elevation: 7 meters above sea level
Terminals: 2 terminals (Terminal 1 for international flights, Terminal 2 for domestic flights)

Flights and Destinations:

Bandar Abbas International Airport serves both domestic and international destinations. Some of the key domestic routes include Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, Kerman, and Kish. International flights connect Bandar Abbas to cities such as Dubai and Doha.

Airlines Operating at Bandar Abbas Airport:

Several airlines operate at this airport, including Iran Air, Aseman Airlines, Kish Air, Sepehran Airlines, and Pars Air.

Facilities and Services:

The airport offers various facilities for travelers, including shopping areas, restaurants, waiting lounges, banking services, and parking spaces.

For the latest flight schedules and real-time updates, passengers can check flight information on reliable airline websites or visit the airport’s official online resources.

Bandar Abbas (BND): Culture and Customs of Bandar Abbas

Due to its geographical and economic location, Bandar Abbas has always been home to people from various parts of Iran and the world, which has resulted in a rich and diverse blend of cultures. For instance, the clothing of the women in this region includes colorful local dresses, such as the chador (veil), shirt, and pants, which are brightly colored. If you closely observe their attire, you will notice a strong resemblance to Indian clothing, a similarity that stems from cultural interactions between India and Bandar Abbas.

The people of Bandar Abbas speak the Bandari dialect, which has been influenced by the migration of various ethnic groups from different countries, as well as regions within Iran. The dialect includes terms from Arabs, Africans, Portuguese, Dutch, English, and various Iranian ethnic groups.

The local customs of Bandar Abbas are a combination of rituals from different ethnic groups from all over the world, which have been cherished by the people of the region since ancient times. Some of these customs include the "Qiblah Dua" ceremony, the "Zanbil Gerdan" (basket-carrying) ceremony, and the "Zar" ceremony.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is Bandar Abbas?

Bandar Abbas is a port city in southern Iran and the capital of Hormozgan Province. It is located on the Persian Gulf coast, near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important maritime passages.

2. What is the climate like in Bandar Abbas?

Bandar Abbas has a hot and humid climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), and high humidity makes the heat feel even more intense. Winters are mild and pleasant, making it the best time for tourism.

3. Which cities are near Bandar Abbas?

Some nearby cities include Qeshm, Minab, Bandar Lengeh, Hajiabad, and Kish Island. These cities are significant due to their geographical and economic importance to Bandar Abbas and Hormozgan Province.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Bandar Abbas?

Popular tourist attractions in Bandar Abbas include the Galleh-Dari Bathhouse, Hindu Temple, Bandar Abbas Grand Bazaar, Coastal Boulevard, Geno Hot Springs, Hara (Mangrove) Forests of Qeshm, Laft Historical Village, Hormuz Island, Portuguese Castle, and Dolphins Bay in Hengam Island.

5. What are the famous souvenirs of Bandar Abbas?

Famous souvenirs include traditional handicrafts like mat weaving (Hasir Bafi), embroidery, clay pottery, wooden ship models (Lenj boats), local spices, traditional sweets like Ranginak, dried fish and seafood, pearl and coral jewelry, and traditional Bandari clothing.

6. What are the distances from Bandar Abbas to major cities in Iran?

The approximate distances are:
- Bandar Abbas to Shiraz: 570 km (~7-8 hours by car)
- Bandar Abbas to Tehran: 1,300 km (~14-15 hours by car, ~1.5-hour flight)
- Bandar Abbas to Mashhad: 1,390 km (~16-17 hours by car, ~2-hour flight)
- Bandar Abbas to Ahvaz: 960 km (~10-11 hours by car)

7. What is the history of Bandar Abbas?

Bandar Abbas has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was historically known as Gombrun and was occupied by the Portuguese in the early 16th century. In 1622, the Safavid Empire, with British help, expelled the Portuguese and renamed the city Bandar Abbas in honor of Shah Abbas I. It has since developed into a major trade hub.

8. What are the local dishes of Bandar Abbas?

Local dishes include Mahyaveh (fermented fish sauce), Zibooni (shrimp rice dish), Havari (fish and rice dish), Ghalieh Mahi (spicy fish stew), Poodini Kooseh (shark meat dish), Ankas (squid dish), Ranginak (date-based dessert), and Tomshi (local bread).

9. What facilities does Bandar Abbas International Airport offer?

Bandar Abbas International Airport has two terminals (Terminal 1 for international flights and Terminal 2 for domestic flights). Facilities include shopping areas, restaurants, waiting lounges, banking services, and parking spaces.

10. What is the culture and customs of Bandar Abbas like?

Bandar Abbas has a diverse culture influenced by various ethnic groups from Iran and other countries. Traditional clothing includes colorful dresses for women, and the local Bandari dialect is influenced by Arabic, African, Portuguese, Dutch, and English languages. Customs include ceremonies like "Qiblah Dua," "Zanbil Gerdan," and "Zar."