Iran’s Kerman Province Launches First Tourist Train to Rayen, Marking a New Era of Sustainable Travel and Tourism Development

Published on December 6, 2025

On Thursday, Kerman’s first tourist train left from Kerman station for Rayen, marking a significant step towards promoting sustainable tourism in southeastern Iran. This marks the start of a new era in the region’s travel infrastructure, with the goal of providing a cleaner, more efficient, and enriching travel experience to both domestic and international tourists.

The train service’s launch, which was attended by numerous officials, tourism activists, and students, is expected to highlight the cultural and natural beauty of Rayen, a city nestled at the foot of Hezar Mountain southeast of Kerman. Kerman Railways’ train promises to take passengers on a picturesque route to Rayen’s famous landmarks, such as the Rayen Citadel, its cascading waterfalls, and the province’s breathtaking landscapes.

Kerman’s Focus on Sustainable Tourism

The new tourist train initiative is a clear demonstration of Kerman’s commitment to fostering a sustainable tourism sector, which is a priority for local authorities. This development aligns with the province’s goal to make travel easier, safer, and more attractive, while minimizing its environmental impact. Kerman’s tourism strategy is centered around promoting clean, green, and sustainable modes of transport, and the introduction of this train service is a key step in this direction.

With the growing interest in eco-friendly travel, the authorities in Kerman have emphasized that this new service will not only boost tourism but will also provide an eco-conscious travel option for visitors. By offering a rail route through one of the most stunning landscapes of Iran, this service stands to provide a unique and immersive travel experience.

Rayen: A City Steeped in History and Natural Beauty

Rayen, with its rich historical and cultural significance, has long been a popular tourist destination in Kerman province. Located just 100 kilometres from the provincial capital, Kerman, the city is renowned for its remarkable Rayen Citadel, an ancient mud-brick fortress that dates back over a thousand years. This historical site is one of the finest examples of Persian architecture and provides a glimpse into the region’s vibrant past.

In addition to the Rayen Citadel, the city is home to several natural attractions, including its serene waterfalls and unique desert landscapes. The train service is set to offer visitors easy access to these sites, showcasing Rayen’s diverse heritage and the tranquil beauty of its surroundings. The introduction of this service is expected to increase the length of tourists’ stays, benefiting local businesses and promoting a more balanced distribution of visitors across Kerman.

The Train Journey: A New Travel Experience

Passengers travelling on the new tourist train will embark on a journey that not only connects them with Kerman’s history but also allows them to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The route takes travelers through the expansive Lut Desert, offering a unique perspective of the vast, arid landscapes that are characteristic of Kerman province. The train ride itself promises to be an adventure, providing a leisurely and comfortable way to experience the province’s diverse topography.

The launch of this train service is also expected to help spread the tourism load more evenly across Kerman province, which is known for its vastness and rich cultural heritage. Kerman’s tourism infrastructure is expanding rapidly, and the new rail route to Rayen is expected to play a central role in promoting the province’s tourism potential on a global scale.

A Collaborative Effort for the Future of Tourism

The launch of the tourist train is the result of a collaborative effort between Kerman Railways, Shahid Bahonar University, and several other local and national agencies. The initiative has received significant support from various sectors, ensuring its success. More than 250 students from Shahid Bahonar University, along with officials and tourism professionals, were on board for the inaugural journey, marking a symbolic start to what is expected to be a long-lasting and fruitful partnership between the city’s universities and its tourism sector.

Morteza Nikrou, the head of Kerman’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department, expressed confidence that this new route would serve as a model for future sustainable tourism initiatives in the region. He stressed the importance of sustainable transport as part of the province’s broader strategy to ensure the long-term development of its tourism industry while preserving its rich natural and cultural assets.

A Broader Vision for Kerman’s Tourism Industry

Looking to the future, local authorities are planning to expand the train service by offering special travel packages and hosting events along the route. By diversifying the experiences offered to travelers, Kerman aims to make the train ride to Rayen one of the most attractive travel experiences in the region. Such developments are expected to stimulate both the local economy and the broader Iranian tourism market, bringing more attention to Kerman’s unique attractions.

The tourist train route is also set to play a crucial role in redistributing tourism throughout Kerman. As one of Iran’s largest and most diverse provinces, Kerman has much to offer, from its historical sites and ancient monuments to its stunning desert landscapes and lush gardens. By developing rail links to key tourist destinations like Rayen, Kerman hopes to increase the number of visitors to the region while reducing the strain on heavily trafficked areas.

Kerman: A Province of Rich History and Diverse Attractions

Kerman province is not only a hub of historical and cultural significance but also a region of natural wonder. From the Kaluts of the Lut Desert, known for their extraordinary natural rock formations, to the verdant Shahzadeh Garden, Kerman offers a variety of landscapes and experiences. The province’s ancient bazaars, traditional bathhouses, and age-old stone and pottery artefacts tell the stories of its inhabitants over millennia. Kerman is a true living museum that reflects the resilience and creativity of the people who have inhabited this land for centuries.

The launch of the tourist train from Kerman to Rayen is part of a broader effort to introduce the world to Kerman’s diverse offerings. By expanding access to the region’s hidden gems and cultural landmarks, this new transport initiative is set to attract travelers seeking an authentic Iranian experience.

A Step Towards Sustainable Travel and Tourism Growth

The introduction of Kerman’s tourist train to Rayen is more than just the start of a new rail route; it represents a step towards a more sustainable, diverse, and culturally rich tourism model for the area. As Kerman continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, the emphasis remains on balancing growth and sustainability, ensuring that the province’s natural and historical treasures are preserved for future generations.

With this initiative, Kerman is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and prosperous tourism industry. With additional developments planned, the region’s tourism industry is poised for significant growth, fuelled by creative solutions and a dedication to preserving the province’s rich heritage.