Spiritual Tourism

Spiritual Tourism is one of the most popular and oldest forms of tourism worldwide, perhaps having the highest number of tourists in Iran. Since ancient times, humans have revered certain places and, to meet their spiritual, mental, and material needs and desires, and to seek protection from natural and unnatural disasters threatening their lives, they have undertaken pilgrimages to visit these sacred sites. For instance, the Kaaba, which has become a pilgrimage site for millions of Muslims since the emergence of Islam. Buddhists, Sikhs, Christians, and Jews also travel to visit their sacred sites. Places of worship such as mosques, tombs of religious leaders, churches, and other sacred sites annually host millions of believers.

Some consider spiritual tourism as a form of religious tourism that attracts enthusiasts from various religions to destinations to visit attractions and religious rituals of other religions. The aim of spiritual tourism is to explore elements of life that transcend the individual and help balance their body, mind, and soul. Iran is known as the cradle of Shia culture and rituals worldwide, particularly during the days of Tasua and Ashura. Each of these rituals commemorates the martyrdom of their leader, Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), in a grand manner. These rituals sometimes depict the cultural roots of a nation and build their beliefs based on their identity, history, and culture. The emotion present in this harmony affects any observer.

Various cities in Iran engage in spiritual tourism activities, including Mashhad, Qom, Shiraz, Kashan, Qazvin, Shush, Ardabil, Gonbad-e Kavous, and many more.