Rasht

Rasht (Persian: رشت) is the capital city of Gilan Province in northern Iran. It lies on the southern shore of the Caspian Sea and is the province’s largest urban center, serving as an administrative, economic, and cultural hub.

Rasht sits in the Caspian lowland and experiences a humid subtropical climate with substantial rainfall. The surrounding area is known for rice paddies, tea plantations, and citrus orchards.

Rasht has long functioned as a regional market and gateway between the Iranian plateau and the Caspian coast. Its historic bazaar and caravanserais reflect its role in trade and crafts in Gilan, while the city has retained traditional Gilaki influences alongside Persian cultural institutions.

The local economy is centered on agriculture—especially rice, tea, citrus—and agro-processing, with commerce, services, and cross-border exchange with nearby port towns in the Caspian region supporting Rasht’s economy. The city is a transportation hub for the province, with road and rail connections to major Iranian cities.

The population includes Gilaki-speaking communities and Persian speakers; many residents identify with Gilaki culture. Rasht is known for its distinctive cuisine, which features fish from the Caspian, rice dishes, and local herbs. The city hosts cultural events, museums, and traditional crafts.

Rasht is the site of campuses belonging to the University of Guilan and other higher education institutes. Notable landmarks include the historic bazaar, mosques, and traditional wooden houses that reflect Guilan architectural styles.

Rasht has road and rail links to Tehran and other cities, and is served by a local airport with domestic connections. The city acts as a gateway to the Guilan region and the Caspian coast.