While Gilan’s lush forests and Caspian coastline may capture most travelers’ attention, nestled in the heart of its green hills lies a timeless relic—Titi Caravanserai.
If you think travelling to northern Iran is limited to beaches and lush scenery, Caravanserai Titi will astonish you. This historic structure—once a refuge for caravans traversing the region—has today become one of Gilan’s most captivating attractions.
If you’ve watched the series Khatoon, this location will be familiar. With its unique architecture and pristine vistas, Caravanserai Titi served as a filming site for several scenes. Walking through its courtyard feels like stepping into another era, each stone echoing untold stories.
Caravanserai Titi is an example of an out-of-town inn dating to the Safavid era. It ranks among Iran’s most beautiful historic buildings, nestled in Gilan’s lush nature near the city of Siahkal.
Specifications of Caravanserai Titi
Beyond its historical pedigree, the distinct architecture of Titi Caravanserai sets it apart from other caravanserais, drawing many visitors each year.
This monument was registered as one of Iran’s National Heritage Sites in 1978 (1357 SH) and is also inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
Caravanserai Titi is one of Gilan’s must-see sites, located in Siahkal County.
Where Is Caravanserai Titi?
Its precise address is: Gilan Province, Siahkal County, Central District, Tutaki Rural District, 14 km along the Siahkal–Deylaman Road.
To access Caravanserai Titi, head for the scenic Siahkal–Deylaman Road—one of northern Iran’s most beautiful drives, offering lush forests and rushing rivers.
How to Reach Caravanserai Titi?
Two routes lead to the Siahkal–Deylaman Road: from Rasht, take the Rasht–Qazvin freeway, then exit onto the Fuman–Saravan road just before Rasht’s police checkpoint.
From Lahijan, follow Enghelab Street, Sardar Jangal Street, Deylaman Boulevard, and Vahdat Boulevard to join the Lahijan–Siahkal road.
In both cases, after entering Siahkal, proceed to Deylaman Square, then continue 14 km to the village of Bālārud.
At Bālārud you’ll find a fork directing you to Caravanserai Titi—perched on a hill above a narrow iron bridge near the village mosque.
Since no signage points the way, we suggest asking local residents in Bālārud for precise directions.
The caravanserai lies about 15.5 km from Siahkal—a 30‑minute drive by car.
Approximately 340 km, taking about five hours by car.
About 54 km, or a 1 h 20 min drive.
Spring is the ideal season to visit northern Iran and Caravanserai Titi. Gilan’s pristine nature bursts into bloom, surrounding the caravanserai with breathtaking greenery. The weather is cool and pleasant, with manageable humidity.
Note: If you seek solitude, early spring may be too crowded due to Nowruz holidays. May and June are quieter alternatives.
In summer, Gilan’s warmth and humidity intensify. Visiting at dawn or late afternoon is recommended to avoid discomfort.
Autumn brings cool weather and colourful foliage—ideal for exploring.
Winter’s snows transform the site into a serene, snowy tableau—though road closures are possible.
Caravanserais once played a crucial role in facilitating trade and pilgrimage. Titi Caravanserai, strategically placed, served silk caravans travelling between Lahijan and Deylaman during Iran’s silk boom.
These caravans stopped here to rest and replenish before continuing inland.
“Caravanserai Titi” may seem an unusual name, but legend ties it to “Titi Khanum,” the aunt of a Safavid ruler who reputedly ordered its construction out of love for Siahkal’s pristine nature.
Additionally, “Titi” means “blossom” in Gilaki. As in English, Gilaki places adjective and noun in reverse order, hence the alternate name “Blossom Caravanserai.”
Designed with two iwans and perfect symmetry, this square-plan structure is built of mortar, stone and brick around a central courtyard.
Plan and Architecture of Caravanserai Titi
The courtyard—its beating heart—features a small pond for travellers to rest.
Plan and Architecture of Caravanserai Titi
The caravanserai underwent two restorations by 2022 to preserve its fabric.
Titi Caravanserai is a single‑storey complex comprising the courtyard (miansara), entrance vestibule (hashti), iwans and rooms—all freely accessible.
– Exterior: The moss-clad walls nestled in verdure evoke medieval European forts.
– Entrance: A northern gateway leads through the hashti into the central courtyard—a resting spot and place to swap mounts.
– Rooms: Square chambers (≈14 m²) ring the courtyard, once lodging merchants and their animals.
– Iwans and Courtyard: Two grand iwans flank the hashti. The 400 m² courtyard with its central pool served as the hub for rest, commerce and daily life.
– Shahneshin: A raised chamber in the south, flanked by two rooms mirroring northern chambers.
– Walls & Vaults: Built of river stones, brick, plaster and sarooj—with pointed arches, cradle vaults and barrel vaults enhancing strength and beauty.
The caravanserai itself offers no modern amenities, but nearby eco‑lodges, restaurants and basic facilities serve visitors.
Around Caravanserai Titi in Siahkal are diverse attractions:
10 km away, nestled in green woodland—ideal for a peaceful retreat with hiking and camping.
A family favourite with picnic gazebos, restrooms, a prayer room, playground, boating and snack kiosks—17 km from the caravanserai, at Siahkal’s entrance.
A Timurid-era fortress 20 km away in Musha Village, its ruined walls still convey grandeur and mystery.
30 km away, famed for its octagonal pool and domed vaults. Legend says it was rediscovered after centuries buried underground.
If you wish to stay close by, options include:
Titi Boom Eco‑Lodge: 30 m from the caravanserai, a restored rural home with two rooms for up to ten guests, local meals and tour guidance.
Banafsheh Eco‑Lodge: 4.5 km away in Tutaki Village, offering forest views and comfortable facilities.
Other choices:
– Bahram Khoshrow Complex
– Sal Titi Recreation Complex
– Gilda Eco‑Lodge
Camping near Loonak Waterfall is a standout experience, though it requires proper equipment: tent, sleeping bag, groundsheet, torch, water, food, first‑aid kit, extra clothes and power bank.
Best seasons: spring and autumn.
Entry is free, open daily—arrive before sunset.
Bring sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
If camping, pack essential gear.
Don’t forget your camera or smartphone—Titi’s architecture and surroundings offer endless photo opportunities.
