Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh

Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh (آستانه اشرفیه) is a city in central Gīlān Province, located between Rasht and Lahijan. The city is known for the shrine of Seyed Jalaloddin Ashraf, an important pilgrimage site. It has a humid subtropical climate with lush surroundings.

Visitors to this destination will find a welcoming atmosphere and opportunities to experience local culture first-hand. The town's traditional bazaar offers a glimpse into daily life, while the surrounding countryside invites exploration on foot or by car. Local restaurants serve authentic Persian cuisine featuring regional specialities prepared with time-honoured recipes. The pace of life here is unhurried, allowing travellers to truly absorb the character of the area. Guesthouses provide comfortable accommodation and local hosts are often happy to share their knowledge of the region's history and traditions.

By Plane

Rasht Airport (RAS) is about 30 km northwest.

By Car / Road

The city is on the main Rasht–Lahijan road. Frequent buses connect to Rasht (30 minutes) and Lahijan (20 minutes).

Walkable town. Taxis for nearby villages.

• Shrine of Seyed Jalaloddin Ashraf — A major pilgrimage site with striking mirror work.
• Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh Bazaar — Traditional market.

Visit the shrine. Explore the surrounding tea plantations.

• Budget: Pilgrim guesthouses from 400,000 rials.

Tea, rice, and local handicrafts.

• Rasht (30 km, 30 minutes) — Provincial capital.
• Lahijan (20 km, 20 minutes) — Tea centre.
• Bandar-e Anzali (40 km, 40 minutes) — Caspian port.