Koohsangi Park The Oldest Recreational Area in Mashhad
History of Koohsangi Park
Koohsangi Park is one of the oldest mountains in Mashhad and holds significant historical importance. This area gained special significance during the Safavid period when Shah Abbas, at the age of 16, was crowned here. Later, in 1668 AD, Mirza Ebrahim Razavi, a prominent figure of the Safavid era, built a tomb for himself on part of the mountain slope, known as the Koohsangi Porch. In 1905 AD, Naser al-Din Shah Qajar also visited this recreational area and viewed the tomb. Until 1931 AD, Koohsangi was recognized as a summer resort and recreational area for locals due to its natural structure, low-altitude climbable mountains, temperate climate, flowing rivers, and lush gardens. In 1939 AD, with the construction of a two-story building by German engineers, stone paving, fencing, and landscaping, it was transformed into a natural park.
Koohsangi Mountains
Koohsangi Park is situated next to two rocky peaks, which are considered the most attractive part of the park. Visitors can take a 1,300-meter stone stairway to reach the heights and enjoy the scenic views along the way, as well as the beautiful cityscape from the top.
Lake and Waterfalls
An artificial lake is located in the southern part of the park, offering a beautiful view, and recreational activities such as boating are available. There are also two waterfalls nestled within the park''s mountains, which enhance the tranquility and beauty of the area through artificial streams.
Koohsangi Tombs
The tomb of Mirza Ebrahim Razavi, a descendant of Imam Jawad (AS) built during the Safavid era, is located in this park. Additionally, the tombs of seven prominent figures from the Safavid period, including Aqa Mirza Askari Razavi, known as "Aqa Bozorg Hakim," Sheikh Esadollah Yazdi, Sheikh Seifollahi Eysi, and some of their followers, are also situated here. In 2004, the remains of several unknown martyrs of the Iran-Iraq war were buried on the peaks of Koohsangi, giving the site the nickname "Jabal al-Noor" (Mountain of Light).
Carriage Rides, Cycling, and Sports Activities
Koohsangi Park features paths for horse-drawn carriages and cycling, offering tourists a nostalgic and enjoyable ride around the park. Visitors can also cycle along these paths, lined with pine trees. In other parts of the park, there are spaces designated for skating and rollerblading.
Koohsangi Land Recreational Complex
Koohsangi Land, also known as the Southern Lake, offers various recreational facilities, including jet skiing, pedal and motor boats, family and children’s boats, zorbing, trampolines, bike racing, ball pools, children’s trains, and more.
The Grand Khorasan Museum
One of the largest museums in Iran, the Grand Khorasan Museum, is located in this area. It is designed in 12 stories, modeled after Nader Shah''s Kalat Palace (Sun Palace). The museum houses various sections and displays historical and ethnographic artifacts in specialized halls. These include manuscripts, stone tools, stucco pieces, and items made of pottery, glass, and metal.
Other Facilities
Children and Future Cultural Center: This center is the only dedicated cultural center for children in Mashhad, offering various games and educational workshops for children, or mother and child activities.
Koohsangi Park Mosque: This distinctive mosque, with its white, onion-shaped dome, is a prominent feature of the park.
Koohsangi Four-Souq Art Center: This is a stylish, rectangular bazaar located on the edge of Koohsangi.
Koohsangi Theater Performances: On special occasions, joyful performances and programs are held in the park’s designated arenas, including music, theater, and cultural events.
Koohsangi Park Parking: The park has multiple entrances and exits with parking spaces in streets such as Kolantari Highway and the end of Zakaria Boulevard.
Restaurants: Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes and fast food at the park''s stalls and pavilions, offering everything from soups and stews to kebabs and hot and cold drinks in a traditional setting.
Koohsangi Handicraft Exhibition: On various occasions, seasonal exhibitions are held in the large green square near the eastern parking lot of Koohsangi.
How to Get There from Hotel Refah
By Car:
From Hotel Refah, head toward the Haram underpass and take the Ayatollah Shirazi exit. After passing through Shohada Intersection and Shohada Square, enter Daneshgah Street. After passing Doktora Intersection, enter Taqi Abad Square, and then drive along Koohsangi Street until you reach the end of the road.
By Public Transport:
Leave Hotel Refah and walk to the Haram station at Water Square. Take Line 86 (Beyt al-Moqaddas Square to Koohsangi, Zakaria Terminal) and get off at Koohsangi Park station.
