Shah Abbasi Caravanserai of Bisotun

The Shah Abbasi Caravanserai of Bisotun is one of the most magnificent historical buildings in Kermanshah Province. It stands within the historic Bisotun site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at the foot of Mount Bisotun and opposite Farhad Tarash. This valuable caravanserai was built in the Safavid era by order of Shah Abbas the Safavid. Because it lay on the historic east-west route across Iran, it was one of the most important caravan stops of its time. The caravanserai was registered on Iran's National Heritage List on 13 Mordad 1353 under registration number 974, and in 1402 it was also inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Persian Caravanserais property. Located in the heart of the historic Bisotun complex, it is today one of Kermanshah's most important tourist attractions, and its view of Mount Bisotun and the surrounding historical monuments gives the site a unique character.

With an area of about 6,000 square metres and a four-iwan layout, the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai of Bisotun is an outstanding example of Safavid caravanserai architecture. The large central courtyard, traditional cells, tall iwans and the solid structure of the building reflect the grandeur of Persian architecture in the Safavid period. Over the centuries the complex has served various purposes, including a granary, a shelter for the poor and even a military prison. After restoration and reconstruction, it has now become the five-star traditional Laleh Bisotun Hotel. While preserving the caravanserai's historic structure, Laleh Hotel offers modern accommodation, a traditional restaurant, a coffee shop, a handicraft shop and well-equipped guest rooms inside a historic building. The complex's proximity to important sites such as the Bisotun Inscription, the Hercules Statue, the Sasanian Palace, the Safavid Bridge and the Hunters' Cave means that visitors can stay in a historic setting and also see the region's most important sights.

To reach the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai of Bisotun, take the Kermanshah–Hamadan road from the city of Kermanshah and drive about 30 kilometres to the historic Bisotun site. The complex lies beside the main road within the area of the Bisotun monuments, so it is very easy to reach. Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit this historic caravanserai, as the green landscape at the foot of Bisotun and the region's mild weather create a pleasant setting for sightseeing and staying. When visiting, please avoid damaging the historic parts of the complex, littering the Bisotun World Heritage site or entering protected areas without permission, so that this valuable historical heritage is preserved for the future.