A Guide To Iran's Best Bathhouses

Public bathhouses are an ancient tradition in Iran. Time and changing lifestyles, however, have caused this tradition to fade. Although some bathhouses are still used today, most have been converted into museums or teahouses. Here we explore some of the most beautiful bathhouses in Iran.

Hammam-e Ganjali Khan, Kerman

Located in the eponymous Safavid-era bazaar complex, Hammam-e Ganjali was built in 1631. Standing at the entrance of this underground bathhouse, visitors can admire frescoes, Persian miniatures, and even scenes from the ancient Persian gym, zurkhaneh. Once inside, the ceiling has simple patterned domes, wax figures depicting what each area was used for, and pools filled with coins and goldfish.
Ganjali Khan Complex, Ganjali Khan Square, Ganjali Khan T-junction, Kerman

The frescoes at the Ganjali Khan Bathhouse entrance are among the highlights

Hammam-e Vakil, Kerman

While the Ganjali Khan Bathhouse can offer some insight into the history of bathhouses, the Vakil Bathhouse, located in the same complex, allows visitors to relax in one. Converted into a teahouse, this bathhouse’s architecture with its graceful archways and tiled walls has been maintained, and displays of pateh (hand-stitched cloth from Kerman) and cozy cushioned benches provide the perfect atmosphere for visitors to take a break with some hot tea and live traditional music. It’s also the best place in the city to try Kerman’s famous kolompeh, cookies filled with minced dates and crushed walnuts.
Ganjali Khan Complex, Ganjali Khan Square, Ganjali Khan T-junction, Kerman, Iran +98 34 3225 4477