Shirgah tourist train highlights revival of rail tourism
The first Shirgah (a city in Mazandaran Province) tourist train following third imposed war departed at full capacity in May 2026.
According to the head of Tamin International Travel and Tourism Company Mehrshad Kazemi, the journey symbolized efforts to strengthen the resilience of Iran’s tourism industry and revive social vitality through rail tourism.
The rail tour takes passengers through some of the country’s notable engineering and natural heritage sites.
During the trip, travelers enjoyed the scenic Tehran-Shirgah railway route and visited attractions including the historic Bon-e Kuh railway station, the local market of Shurab, the iconic Veresk Bridge, and the renowned engineering landmark known as the “Three Golden Lines (Se Khat Tala).”
In an interview with chtn.ir, Kazemi emphasized the importance of relaunching the tourism route.
“At a time when the tourism industry needs stronger resilience and fresh experiences to return to its peak days, the launch of tourism trains has become a central priority for Social Security Tourism Holding (HEGTA),” he said. “This initiative is not merely an operational step, but also a message of renewed hope and dynamism for the country’s travel network.”
Kazemi described rail tourism as a narrative linking history and nature, adding that HEGTA is pursuing a strategic approach aimed at maximizing the capacities of the rail transportation sector to promote travel equity and achieve a more balanced distribution of tourists across different regions of the country.
He added that the initiative marks the beginning of broader and more coordinated programs designed to strengthen the tourism value chain within the holding company.
The Shirgah railway route, known for its contemporary architectural value and ecotourism attractions, has long been considered one of Iran’s most popular rail corridors. Officials say the route has once again become a focal point for tourists under HEGTA’s new strategy of sustaining tourism activities under all conditions.