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Home , Amir Chakhmaq Complex, Baghali polo, Chehel Sotoun, Eram Garden, Gheimeh, Kabab koobideh

SURFIRAN Travel & Parsyad Co. is proud to present

THE PERSIAN CARAVAN TRAIN© A JOURNEY THROUGH PERSIA ON A PRIVATE TRAIN 2 WELCOME TO The land of history and mystery

It’s a great honor to introduce the The Persian Caravan Train The Rail and River Tour Persian Caravan Adventure Train This journey offers an affordable To get to plains of Khuzestan the which will take you to visit many opportunity to visit the cultural train will pass through the Zagros of Iran’s attractions. Iran is coun- and historical heritage sites of Mountains while the Dez River try of magnifcent attractions and Iran, boarding on a 5-star train will accompany you by staying wonderful landscapes from north which offers a high level of com- alongside you the whole journey. to south. fort and services in a pleasant at- It will take you through the richly There’s nothing quite like trav- mosphere. diverse and green landscapes of elling by train, listening to the the river and breathtaking valley. The trip covers all of the above in rhythmic rumble as the wheels’ about 2 weeks in which passengers Exclu sive Tours clack over the tracks and the world are served on board or in 4 star ho- fashes past the window of your Based on our extensive knowledge tels for dining and sleeping. compartment. of the railwork network and we The Three Gold Line Trip can create and plan specifc and Boarding the train will lead to an exclusive tours based on customer iconic experience of natural and Iran’s railway goes back 80 years desires. picturesque landscapes almost and is one of the most successful impossible to see on a road trip. It inter- national projects in Iran. All of our tours are offered by will provide a unique and memo- Railways in the north of Iran by SURFIRAN travel and tours, rable experience for travelers with passing through mountains and which is a well-respected tour op- a sense of adventure. rainforests ensures beautiful and erator in Iran in cooperation with eye-catching views. The trip will Parsyad co. We offer fve different tours to suit ensure a memorable experience of different travelers. We hope Persian Caravan Trains Iranian landscapes, as well as din- can show the beauty and history 1. The Persian Caravan Train: A ing in local houses. of Iran. 12-day classical tour of Iran The Stone Crossing Tour 2. The Three Gold Line Train: A 1-day tour of the north of This short trip is an opportunity Iran to visit three UNESCO world her- 3. The Stone Crossings Tour: A itage sites. You can then see and 3-day tour of the Zagros re- hear the story behind these mag- gion nifcent mountains and the rai 4. The Rail and River Tour: A road as it passes through the un- 2-day tour of Lorestan touched and breathtaking nature 5. Exclusive Tours of the Zagros mountains and feel the beauty that is all around you.

3 4 THE PERSIAN CARAVAN TRAIN

Travelling with the Persian Caravan Train is a unique polis, cities of the Achaemenid Empire that rank among way to uncover the story of Iran. The tour is offered by the world’s greatest sites of antiquity. , which is SURFIRAN travel and tours which is a well-respected well known for its Zoroastrian fre temples, its Persian tour operator and travel agency in Iran in cooperation handicrafts and its high quality confectionery as well as with Parsyad Co. Kerman that is known for its tropical fruits and dates, excellent meat, dairy products and local delicious . The Persian Caravan Train allows its passengers to ex- plore the real Iran in a fast and safe manner. Local Eng- The service of the train begins the moment you board lish-speaking tour guides offer explanations of the most and are greeted with a local drink on arrival A porter as- signifcant sites in each city and there are opportunities sists you to your cabin. Your service attendant is avail- to experience authentic regional cuisine, shopping and able to assist you in making yourself at home in your traditional cultural offerings cabin.

There is 24-hour service in each carriage, facilities in- It offers a chef-prepared menu with selections of mouth- clude a bathroom in every carriage, air-conditioning, watering . Enjoy your meal in a decorated a library, LCD screen and large windows to watch the dining car. During the day, this place provides a warm, world go by, all of which ensures a memorable experi- naturally lit observation area. You can also enjoy a cup of ence. coffee or tea while taking in the scenery.

This all-inclusive adventure will take you through richly The Persian Caravan Train will delight all of your senses diverse landscapes, cultures and heritage sites. The Per- as you travel through Iran to reveal the pearls of Persia. sian Caravan Train offers unique excursions with tours ranging from beloved Iranian cities such as , well known for its beautiful historic architecture and mag- nifcent that trace their design princi- ples to the days of Shah Abbas. and Perse- 5 Nasir ol Molk

6 From the legendary hospitality of the Iranian people to the thousands year old culture and traditions, riches and wonders await those who have the courage to go beyond the clichés.

IRAN: THE LAND OF GLORY AND BEAUTY

Iran is a land history Heritage sites. At the moment, The World Travel Market 2015 culture, souvenir and Iran stands 11th in the world for Industry report said Iran was set authenticity. This is not the number of registered world to become a tourism hot spot and a tourism slogan, this is the reality heritage sites. tourists were rushing to discover experienced by visitors who have the riches the country has to offer. been impressed by Iran’s beauty Archaeologists estimate that mod- and amazing attractions. ern Iran is home to over a million If you would like to fnd a small historical sites, places and zones. world in a vast country, you are Iran is bursting with cultural her- During the past few centuries, welcome to visit Iran. itage and historical monuments. over 150,000 of such sites have These architectural remnants can been located in different parts of date back thousands of years. the country.

Overall some 20 major archaeo- Despite many negative news sto- logical sites in Iran have been reg- ries about Iran. istered by the United Nations Ed- ucational, Scientifc and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as World

7 FACILITIES AND SERVICES What’s included in the tour price

Professional and Experienced Tour Guides On Board Service

The Persian Caravan Train allows its passengers to ex- You can expect service which is attentive, friendly and plore real Iran in a fast and safe manner. Local English- unobtrusive. Your car attendants provide housekeep- speaking tour guides offer explanations of the most ing services with one attendant always on duty to assist signifcant sites in each city, while there are also op- you and to ensure you are comfortable in your cabin. portunities to experience authentic regional cuisine Complimentary tea, coffee and bottled drinking water as well as shopping. Our tour guides are top licensed are available in your cabin 24 hours a day. guides with one mission in mind making your tour the Guided Off-train Excursions journey of a lifetime. The history and culture of the places we visit on our rail Arrival And Departure Airport Transfers cruises will come alive through our expert local guides. Arrival and departure transfers are included. All our tours include a wide-ranging sightseeing sched- ule to make the most of the time you have off the train Hotel and On Board Accommodation and bring you closer to the culture, people and history Although you will spend much of your time sightsee- of your destinations. We believe it is the special little ing or relaxing in the hotels and train’s public areas, touches that help create magical memories. you will fnd your cabin a welcome retreat at the end of On Board Doctor And Medical Facilities a rewarding day. All hotels are of fve-star standard, or the best available. To give you peace of mind our tours are accompanied by a Doctor who travels with us for the entire jour- Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner Daily ney; so you can rest assured that medical assistance is All meals are included, starting with dinner on the frst always available. On call 24 hours a day, the Doctor is day and ending with breakfast on the last day. Several on hand to give primary care which is also included in times during the tour we will also sample authentic lo- the tour price. In almost every case, the doctor will be cal cuisine and a selection of drinks on the train, which English speaking. is also included in the tour price. All on board are Porterage cooked, prepared and served inside the train. As you may need to unpack your luggage and belong- On Board Facilities ings will stay with you on the train throughout the 24-hour service in each car, facilities include a bath- journey, wherever necessary, porterage is included room in each car, air-conditioning, a library, free WIFI, between the hotels and stations. LCD screen and a large windows to watch the world go by ensures a memorable experience.

8 On-Board Kitchen

9 10 11 ON-BOARD CUISINE Onboard experience dining restaurant

12 On-Board Restaurant

PERSIAN CUISINE ON-BOARD

The 5-star train is the THE RESTAURANT THE KITCHEN newest train to join Iran’s rolling stock by You can have food in a double The train has a kitchen which is the Raja passenger train company decker restaurant with a magnif- located in a dedicated space apart which offers a higher class of cent and pleasant environment from he dining car and guests services. which has the seating capacity for can observe the whole process of 96 people. Guests will be served preparing the food and order the The train features 4-bunk com- with a range of healthy, tasty dish of their choice. Our cuisine is partments where every car has one dishes. designed to be enjoyed. well-trained male and female host onboard to serve passengers. Passengers in the train will be served with a wide range of The train starts its journey from Iranian and exotic entrees, main Tehran and after passing Kashan, courses and desserts and after the Isfahan, Bam, Kerman, Yazd, meal there hopefully a friendly and will be conversation. back to Tehran again.

13 ON-BOARD FOOD MENU

KHORESHT-E FESENJAN (PERSIAN AND ) --- KHORESHT-E & (RICE, LAMB, AND STEW) --- ZERESHK POLO (BARBERRY RICE WITH CHICKEN) --- (RICE WITH AND FAVA ) --- JOOJEH KABAB ( CHICKEN KABOBS) --- (GRILLED MINCED MEAT KABOBS) --- TEA AND COFFEE Vegetarian meals is available on request

14 15 FIRST CLASS CABINS 1st class facilities on the trains

16 facilities on the trains

Each corridor of the train has 10 comfort- Compartments have special space for passengers’ lug- able 4-bunk compartments all of which gage which are 185cm long, 48cm wide and 34cm tall have: above the compartment’s door.

2 upper and 2 lower beds each, designed appropriately Passengers have personal 52.48cm space and there is a for a peaceful sleep. Upper beds are 174cm in length 52.40cm folding table for 2 passengers sitting in front and 64cm in width. Lower beds which are suitable of each other for serving food while they are not rest- for taller passengers are 185 cm in length and 64cm in ing, otherwise they can fold it up for enough sleeping width. space for the lower beds.

Compartments available facilities include: 1. Electronic washroom systems 2. Sleeping sets including a mattress, pillow and blanket of the highest hygiene standards in special bags 3. Slippers 4. Blinds over the windows to regulate the light 5. Adjustable air conditioning system 6. TV sets providing access to 8 different channels including 2 movie channel 7. Access to the digital content delivery networks on mobile phones and tablets.

The cabins

17 18 Amir Chakhmaq, Yazd Azadi Tower, Tehran

20 TOURS OVERVIEW Tour route and stop details

The Persian Caravan Train tour is an iconic experience of discovering the story of Persia. This all-inclusive adventure will take you through richly diverse landscapes, cultures and heritage sites. The Persian Caravan Train offers unique excursions with tours ranging from beloved Iranian cities such as Isfahan, well known for its beautiful historic ar- chitecture and magnifcent Persian gardens that trace their design principles to the days of Shah Abbas. Pasargadae and , cities of the Achaemenid Empire that rank among the world’s greatest sites of antiquity and the warmness of the Iranian people. Yazd which is also very well known for its Zoroastrian fre temples, Persian handi- crafts and its high quality confectionery as well as Kerman that is known for its tropical fruits and dates, excellent beef and dairy product. Over a week, the Persian Caravan Train will delight all of your senses as you travel through Iran to reveal the pearl of Persia. During the day, the train provides a warm, naturally lit observation area. Here you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while taking in the scenery.

Tehran – Kashan – Isfahan – Bam – Kerman Yazd – Meybod – Pasargade (Saadatshahr) – Persepolis – Shiraz – Tehran

To Book Call +98 (21) 7761 6210 or Call Your Travel Agent 21 TRAVEL ITINERARY Discover the ancient Persia

DAY 1 WELCOME TO IRAN

There are no activities planned until an evening wel- located in city center of Tehran. Feel free to explore come meeting. Flights often arrive very late at night Tehran tonight, but make sure you’re back in time or early in the morning in Tehran. Keep in mind the to meet the group. After introductions, your tour evening welcome meeting when booking your travel. leader will review the details of your tour. You’ll Arrive at Imam Khomeini International Airport in meet your fellow travelers at the welcome dinner. Iran, where you are met and transferred to our hotel - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Tehran

DAY 2 TEHRAN CITY TOUR

After breakfast, we’ll go to see National Museum of We will then go back to the hotel to get prepared to Iran which is an institution formed of two complexes, start the train tour. At Evening we go to Tehran Na- including the Museum of Ancient Iran and the Islam- ture Bridge where young couples spend time together. ic Era. Then we go to visit a World Heritage Site, the Dinner is in a local restaurant in the center of Tehran, (Ethnographical Museum, Shams-ol- which offers a chance to experience vibrant Iranian Emareh edifce, Marmare Throne and Mirror Hall) that life in the capital of Iran. You’re likely to meet smiling was built during the Qajar Dynasty that rose to power young Iranians who are delighted to engage with you. in the late 1700’s, this fabulous walled complex is cen- - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Tehran tered on a landscaped garden with tranquil pools.

DAY 3 TEHRAN – KASHAN – ISFAHAN

Today we arrive in Kashan, a town originally famous From here we will visit the Khan-e Boru- jerdi and for its textiles and ceramic production, but now better Khan-e Tabatabei, These 19th-century houses were known for the and extensive and funded by wealthy merchants, and feature lovely hamams. courtyards, lush gardens and fne intricate relief de- sign carved into stone and stucco work. From here we The Fin Garden which is one of the nine Persian Gar- will visit the bazaar area, a widespread complex flled dens added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site is our with hamams and ; one Hamam has been con- frst stop, a relaxing and visually impressive Persian verted to a traditional tea house where we will stop for garden with water channels all passing through a cen- those who need a break from shopping. Then we will tral pavilion. be at the train station at 5:30 PM and move to Isfahan. - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Isfahan

22 , Isfahan

DAY 4 GLORIOUS, HISTORIC ISFAHAN

As the 17th-century capital of the Safavid Empire, Isfa- in the country, and its construction and embellish- han was one of the world’s greatest cities – architectur- ment over the past twelve centuries illustrate a num- ally striking, wealthy beyond imagine, and politically ber of important periods in . Next powerful with Europeans, Ottomans, Indians and Chi- up is Chehel Sotun. Set in a landscaped and forested nese coming to its court – the heart of a vast Persian park in front of a tranquil refecting pool, this graceful Empire. Indeed, its grandeur inspired the rhyming pavilion was built by Shah Abbas I for entertainment proverb, Isfahan nesf-jahan (Isfahan is Half the World). and court receptions. Entering through a portico with twenty slender wooden columns, we’ll discover soar- Today, we’ll join our expert guide to begin our explo- ing halls embellished with frescoes, paintings and mo- ration of the city, starting with some of the centuries saics; the Hall of Mirrors is especially breathtaking! old, still elegant bridges that span the Zayandeh Riv- er. The 4th-century Shahrestan Bridge, for example, This afternoon, our exploration continues in Imam evokes the greatest aqueducts of ancient Rome and is Square (A world heritage site). This 17th-century the oldest bridge in Iran. Other famous bridges on the site is one of the largest public spaces in the world. Zayandeh River are Sio-ce-pol and Khaju. There are Here in the square, we’ll visit the 17th-century Shah gates below the bridge to let the water run- off from Mosque, revered as a masterpiece of Islamic archi- Zayandeh River in the spring, and there are beautiful tecture and easily recognized by its magnifcent stone-brick archways above each gate. These archways tile-work and soaring cupola and minarets. In the provide a great acoustic place for every man who wants Ali Qapu Palace, we’ll marvel at its beautiful music to sing. We can always fnd a man or a group of men rooms and the balconies where Safavid kings would singing under the bridge. The songs are usually about sit to enjoy the polo matches unfolding in the square betrayal or unrequited love. below. We’ll end our day exploring the Isfahan Ba- zaar that surrounds Imam Square. With hundreds Continue our exploration in Isfahan at another UN- of local vendors that specialize in traditional arts ESCO World Heritage Site. Simple at frst glance but and crafts, it’s a wonderful place to shop for pottery, wondrous in its rich detail and bold design, the Mas- enamel, jewelry and delicately inlaid board games. jed-e Jamé is another masterpiece of Iranian architec- - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Isfahan ture, covering nearly 5 acres in the heart of this historic city. This is one of the oldest congregational mosques

23 Aeg-e Bam, Kerman

DAY 5 ISFAHAN – BAM

After an early breakfast. We have a free day to explore will be in the train station at 6:00 PM and move to Bam. Isfahan, so take time to wander along the cities many - Overnight on board the train tree-lined boulevards and spacious gardens. Then we

DAY 6 BAM – KERMAN

The modern Iranian city of Bam surrounds the Bam struction and restorations), then we will move to Ma- citadel. The ancient citadel of Arg-é Bam (A world her- han to visit the blue-tiled of Shah Nema- itage site) has a history dating back around 2,000 years tollah-e-Vali, the great 14th century Suf Leader, and ago, to the Parthian Empire, but most buildings were the Shahzadeh Garden (late 19th century Qajar-period built during the Safavid dynasty. garden/house) watch is listed as a World Heritage site.

Today excursion to the Arg-e Bam, with all the archi- In the afternoon we will move to Kerman and after a short tectural features of a desert citadel, now on the map as a rest in the hotel we will be free to walk around the city. result of the tragic earthquake in Bam which destroyed - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Kerman the town and its magnifcent citadel (still under recon-

DAY 7 KERMAN – SHAHDAD – YAZD

Kerman is one of the oldest cities of Iran. The city is ferent rooms for changing and offering different tem- home to many historic mosques and Zoroastrian fre pera- tures, all with intricate domed ceilings. Then we temples. In the morning, after breakfast we will visit will drive to Shahdad. It is located at the edge of the the Ganjali Bathhouse Museum Located in a Safavid- vast Lut desert (A world heritage site). The desert of- era complex, complete with school, , and a fers a scenery of the sandy structures, and we can walk mosque, the Bathhouse Museum is worth a visit. Now right through them. After that we will back to Ker- converted into an anthropology museum, its interior man and will be at the train station to move to Yazd. is meticulously and beautifully decorated, with dif- - Overnight on board the train

24 DAY 8 ANCIENT YAZD

Today we start our day in Yazd. Yazd is one of Iran’s are considered to be sacred. At the still-active Zoroas- oldest continuously inhabited towns, its silhouette trian Fire Temple, we’ll see a fame that is said to have punctuated by minarets and the ingeniously-designed been burning for the past 1,500 years. It’s an impor- wind towers that capture desert breezes to cool homes tant pilgrimage site for the faithful and here our ex- during the hot summer months. Yazd is also the center pert guide will offer additional insight into one of the of Iran’s Zoroastrian community, which is where we’ll world’s oldest monotheistic religions. begin the day’s sightseeing. In Amir Chakhmaq Square, we’ll see a very impres- At the Tower of Silence, we’ll learn about one of the tra- sive – a congregation hall for Shia com- ditions of this ancient pre-Islamic religion: Until the memo- ration ceremonies. With three tiers of recessed mid-1900’s, the dead were transported to this tower alcoves, all perfectly proportioned, its façade is one where they were left to decompose and be devoured by of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Then birds. Zoroastrian tradition considers a deceased body we will visit the Friday Mosque, built in 1324, where to be “unclean” and this process of excarnation pre we can gaze upon the tallest minarets in the country. vents contact with either fre or earth – both of which - Overnight at 4* Hotel, Yazd

DAY 9 YAZD – MEYBOD – SAADATSHAHR

Today we take you to outside of Yazd, which includes (bathhouses). Explore the valley and nearby mountains the Meybod citadel, ice house and the impressive and get great pictures of the aqueducts that formed Kharanaq mud brick village. At frst we will visit Mey- part of the underground water system. At night we bod the oldest mud brick structure in Iran and explore will be at the train station to move to Sadatshahr. the Narin Castel. The impressive town of Kharanaq is - Overnight on board the train believed to be 1,000 years old and we can explore the abandoned structures of this hillside settlement, peer- ing into the houses of wealthy merchants and human

DAY 10 SAADATSHAHR – PERSEPOLIS – SHIRAZ

Today we will visit Pasargadae, a UNESCO World Her- wan- ton destruction that still mystifes historians to- itage Site, tomb of Cyrus the Great and former capital day, burning the mighty city to the ground. Though a of the Achaemenid Empire. We will spend some time shadow of its former self, the soaring pillars, terraces exploring the site and though not as striking as Perse- and sculptures of Persepolis still remain, but probably polis, there is a great viewpoint where we can look over most impressive are the bas reliefs which line the site, the site and the surrounding area. Then visit legendary telling the story of ancient governors and kings that city of Persepolis, former capital of Darius the Great came to Persepolis to pay tribute to the Persian Emper- and founded in 512 BC. ors. From here we will drive a couple of miles to Naqsh- e-Rustam, the Necropolis where Darius and his succes- There was no more impressive construction in the sors are buried. Carved into the side of a cliff, the site is ancient world. Darius built the terrace, the Apadana, extraordinary in its magnitude and sheer ambition and the , the monumental staircases and his son, does not dis- appoint even after the impressive Perse- Xerxes, added the harem and the Hall of 100 Columns. polis. Continue to Shiraz and check in to our hotel. Alexander the Great entered Persepolis in January - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Shiraz 330 BC and then committed an uncharacteristic act of

25 Nasir ol Molk Mosque, Shiraz

DAY 11 SHIRAZ – TEHRAN

After breakfast, will start our full day tour of Shiraz. It even refects on the visitors as if a colorful ball is hit At frst, we will visit Karim Khan Citadel. Built during by the frst sun ray and explodes to thousands of but- the , we will visit Nasir-al-Mulk Mosque terfies all around. Shiraz is famous for its gardens and (Pink Mosque) few steps far from . we’ll visit the with its aromatic myrtles, beautiful fowers, fruit trees, and towering cypress It built by the order from one of the lords of the Qa- (one of which is said to be 3,000 years old). jar Dynasty, Mirza Hasan ‘Ali Nasir-al-Mulk, it took 12 years to complete in 1888. Its interior reveals a magnif- We will end our day in Shiraz on a tranquil note in the cent masterpiece of design with stunning colors. This lovely garden tomb of , one of Persian literature is a space where light and worship intertwine. most famous poets. Hafez is one of great poets who impressed everyone with his mastery.. Later we’ll be The mosque comes to life with the sunrise and colors escorted to the train station and will move to Tehran. dance throughout the day like whirling dervishes. It There will be a special event for guests in the evening. refects on the ground, walls, the arches and the tower- - Overnight on board the train ing spires.

DAY 12 TEHRAN (DEPARTURE)

There are no activities planned for the fnal day and you are able to depart the accommo- dation at any time to take your fights home. - Overnight at 5* Hotel, Tehran

26 Dasht-e Loot (Lut Desert)

27 28 , Isfahan

29 A JOURNEY TO THE LAND OF MAGIC CARPET