Geographically, Ashtaqi lies on the flat plains adjacent to the Caspian Sea coast, characterized by a mild wet temperate climate with high humidity levels during the summer months. The area is known for its fertile alluvial soils that support a wide range of agricultural activities. Nearby, the Sefidrud River feeds several irrigation canals that supply the fields in and around the settlement.
The earliest recorded mention of Ashtaqi dates back to the 18th century, when it appeared on Ottoman maps of the Persian Gulf region. Throughout the 20th century the village experienced modest growth, primarily driven by subsistence farming and the cultivation of rice and tea. In 1978, the village was officially incorporated into the newly established administrative district of Talesh County.
The local economy is predominately agrarian, with rice paddies and tea plantations constituting the main sources of income. In recent years, supplemental employment has emerged from honey production and beekeeping, owing to the region’s rich wild floral diversity. Small scale fishing activities on nearby marshlands also contribute to household income.
Culturally, the residents of Ashtaqi are primarily of Gilaki ethnicity and speak the Gilaki language, with Persian serving as the lingua franca for official matters. The majority of the population practices Shia Islam, and the village hosts an annual pilgrimage festival in the month of Shahrivar to commemorate a local saint. Architectural features include traditional wooden houses with sloping tiled roofs and a modest village mosque that serves as a community hub.
Infrastructure in Ashtaqi has improved steadily over the past decade. A paved road now connects the village to the city of Rasht, and electricity, potable water, and mobile telephone coverage are now available. A primary school and a small health clinic provide basic educational and medical services, while plans to upgrade the irrigation system and expand road connectivity are currently under evaluation by the provincial authorities.