Kifri

Kifri (Arabic: كفري, Kurdish: کفری) is a town in the northern part of Diyālá Governorate, Iraq, situated near the foothills of the Hamrin Mountains, about 100 km northeast of Baqubah. It sits in a transitional zone between the central Iraqi plain and the Kurdish highlands. The population is mixed, with Kurds, Turkmen, and Arabs. The surrounding landscape is greener than much of Iraq, with rolling hills and seasonal streams flowing into the Diyala River basin. The climate is more moderate than central Iraq: summer highs around 40°C, and winters can be cool with occasional frost. Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Baghdad International Airport (BGW), about 160 km southwest (2.5 hr by taxi, 60,000–80,000 IQD). Kirkuk International Airport is about 80 km northwest.

By Car / Road

Kifri is accessible via the road from Baqubah (100 km northeast, ~1.5 hr) or from Kirkuk (80 km northwest, ~1 hr). Shared taxis connect to both cities.

The town is walkable. Taxis are available for trips to the surrounding hills.

• Hamrin Mountains: The mountain range south of Kifri offers dramatic landscapes and spring wildflowers.

• Kifri Bazaar: A lively market reflecting the town's Kurdish and Turkmen heritage.

• Old Town: Traditional stone-and-brick houses in the older quarters.

• Hiking in the Hamrin Hills: Spring (March–April) is ideal for hiking when the hills are green and flowers bloom.

• Cultural Exploration: Kifri's mix of Kurdish, Turkmen, and Arab cultures is reflected in its food, music, and markets.

• Photography: The transition between desert plains and mountain foothills provides striking scenery.

Kurdish and Turkmen cuisines feature: grilled meats (kebab, tikka), dolma (stuffed vegetables), and fresh breads baked in tandoor ovens.

Chai is served at Kurdish-style teahouses. Bottled water is essential.

• Budget: Basic guesthouses (10,000–15,000 IQD).
• Mid-range: Limited mid-range options; Kirkuk (80 km northwest) has more choice.

The bazaar sells Kurdish textiles, kilims (flat-woven rugs), and local honey. Pomegranates and grapes from the mountain orchards are seasonal highlights.

• Kirkuk (80 km northwest, ~1 hr) — Multi-ethnic oil city with a historic citadel and lively bazaars.
• Muqdadiyah (50 km southwest, ~45 min) — Market town in Diyala.
• Khalis (60 km southwest, ~1 hr) — Agricultural town on the Diyala River.
• Baqubah (100 km southwest, ~1.5 hr) — Diyala's provincial capital.
• Sulaymaniyah (120 km northeast, ~2 hr) — Major Kurdish city in the Iraqi Kurdistan region.