Al-Kut

Al-Kut (Arabic: الكوت) is the capital of Wāsiţ Governorate, eastern Iraq, located on the Tigris River about 160 km southeast of Baghdad. It is a historic river port and administrative centre, known for its location on a sweeping bend of the Tigris. Kut was the site of the famous Siege of Kut (1915–1916) during World War I, when British and Indian forces were besieged by Ottoman troops for 147 days. The city has a traditional character with a busy riverfront and a large market. The surrounding area is agricultural, with date palms and grain farms. Summers are extreme (45°C+), winters mild. October–April is the best time.

By Plane

Baghdad International Airport (BGW) is about 180 km northwest (2 hr by taxi, 45,000–65,000 IQD).

By Train

By Car / Road

Al-Kut is on Highway 6, connecting Baghdad (160 km northwest, ~1.5 hr) to Amarah (150 km southeast, ~2 hr). Shared taxis and buses run from Baghdad.

Taxis are the main local transport (5,000–10,000 IQD).

• Kut Riverfront (Corniche): The Tigris at Kut is a wide, majestic river, with a promenade.

• Kut Market: A large traditional souk with textiles, spices, and household goods.

• Siege of Kut Memorial: Monuments and a British war cemetery commemorate the WWI siege.

• Wasit Archaeological Site: The ruins of the early Islamic city of Wasit are about 40 km west.

• River Walks: The Corniche is most active in the evenings.

• Souk Exploration: The market is one of the most authentic in southern Iraq.

• Visit the War Memorials: The WWI siege history is the city's most notable historical event.

Kut has good masgoof and kebab restaurants along the riverfront.

Chai at riverside cafés. Bottled water essential.

• Budget: Basic hotels (15,000–25,000 IQD).
• Mid-range: Several hotels (30,000–50,000 IQD).

Textiles, spices, and local crafts at the souk.

• Al-Aziziyah (50 km north, ~40 min) — Tigris market town.
• Al-Hai (60 km south, ~50 min) — Agricultural centre in Wasit.
• Baghdad (160 km northwest, ~1.5 hr) — Iraq's capital.
• Al-Nu'maniya (40 km south, ~35 min) — Date-palm town.
• Amarah (150 km southeast, ~2 hr) — Capital of Maysan.