Masouleh Village - The scenic village in north of Iran

Masouleh Village in Northern Iran

If you're planning a trip to the north of Iran, make sure to add Masouleh Village to your list of must-visit destinations. This stunning village, located in Gilan Province, is a unique and authentic spot that will leave you in awe. Known as the "village on the rooftops," Masouleh is situated on the foothills of the Alburz Mountain Range, and its architecture is truly remarkable. The village appears to be built on a series of big stairs that cascade down from the mountain to the valley, creating a breathtaking sight. Masouleh Village is a perfect example of traditional Iranian architecture and culture, and it has been preserved beautifully throughout the years. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you wander through its narrow streets and alleyways, admiring the old houses with their wooden balconies and colorful doors. The village is surrounded by lush green forests, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and hikers. Masouleh Village is truly a hidden gem in the north of Iran, and it's a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic cultural experience. Don't miss out on this incredible destination during your travels in Iran!

Masouleh Village - The Rooftops Village - Gilan, Iran

The history of Masouleh Village

About 800 years ago, groups of people from different parts of Iran like Kurdistan migrated to Masouleh village as a result of unknown reasons, maybe earthquakes or drought, in their previous homelands. They were accompanied by a group of people who lived in a village named the Old Masouleh Village which is 10 kilometers away from the current Masouleh Village, and is where many pieces of ancient potteries and other objects are found. Masouleh Village was the first alive village which was registered on the National Heritage List of Iran in 1975.

Locals Selling Handicrafts - Masouleh Village - Gilan, Iran

The architecture of Masouleh Village

In general, the people living in the north of Iran are extroverted and lively people and the architecture of their houses follows this pattern, too. In Masouleh Village, the houses have wide windows and balconies which helps the circulation of the misty air. Since this village is constructed on the foothills of mountains, it has a stepped construction like Abyaneh and Uraman villages. In Masouleh Village, the houses are built based on a vertical chain and the rooftop of the lower house is the courtyard of the upper house or is used as the public alley of the village, where no motor vehicle is allowed to enter. The houses in Masouleh Village are covered with yellow mud in order to be notable in misty weather which accrues in Masouleh all the year and in every season. The Masouleh Village is a hidden gem nestled in the Alborz Mountains of Iran. Its unique architecture is a sight to behold, making it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and travelers alike. The village is famous for its stepped layout, where houses are built on top of each other, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The traditional buildings are made of clay and stone, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Walking through the narrow alleys and staircases, visitors can admire the intricate details of the houses and experience the charm of this ancient village. Don't miss the opportunity to explore The Masouleh Village and immerse yourself in its architectural wonders. 

The locals of Masouleh Village

Most of the locals of Masouleh Village are old men and women who have refused to migrate to cities and prefer to stay in their cozy houses, located in this beautiful village. They speak in Taleshi language which is close to the ancient Avesta language and are so loyal to Islamic rituals like Ashura and Tasu’a and Iranian new year ceremony, Nowruz. The locals earn money by animal husbandry, renting village houses to travelers, and making handicrafts like wood crafts and knitted crafts like woolen warm socks and tiny cute dolls.

How to spend time in Masouleh Village

Many people travel to Masouleh Village in order to chill and get relaxed for a couple of days, walk through the colorful and vibrant local market, enjoy the scenic view and the fresh weather, and sit in small teahouses where locals gather and play backgammon. The travelers looking for more active experiences usually manage to climb the Shah Moalem Mount which is 3050 meters high above the sea level and is the highest spot in Gilan Province. This is a safe climbing route and passes through the eye-catching forests. Tourists can always feel the fresh, cool and pleasing weather in Masouleh Village in spring and summer. During autumn, the forests are covered with hundreds of colors in Masouleh Village. 

Best time to visit Masouleh Village

During the winter and as a result of the great amount of snowfall, the weather in Masouleh village is so cold and the roads reaching it sometimes get banned for days, however, the trees and houses covered with white snow create an astonishing view, and living the lives of the people in Masouleh Village during winter, would be a really unique experience. Thanks to the mild weather and less rainfall, spring and summer are the best seasons for visiting Masouleh Village. But, for most of the people, autumns are the most amazing time of the year for having a trip to Masouleh Village. In spite of the great amount of rainfall, the weather is not very cold and the landscapes are so colorful which blows every visitors’ mind.

Travelers Visiting Masouleh Village - Gilan, Iran

Where to stay in Masouleh Village?

There are two cozy hotels inside Masouleh Village and some other hotels on the road of Masouleh that travelers can book before arriving Masouleh. There are also many clean and cozy village houses and ecolodges that travelers can book with lower prices and enjoy a more authentic experience. 

Tours to Masouleh Village

Although Masouleh Village in north of Iran, it is not usually included in Iran classic and culture tours, this is a highly recomended place. There are two PackToIran Iran tours that include the wonderful Masouleh Village. If you are keen to visit this village, checkout North of Iran Tour and North and Northwest Iran Tour and choose between them. In your trip to Iran, try not to miss the nature, the cities, and more important of all, the memorable and diverse food, in northern part of Iran.