Masuleh is located in 55 km of Rasht in the mountainous and sylvan area, on rocky slopes with a height of 1050 m above sea level. The climate of Masuleh is moderate and humid in summer and cold and humid in winter. Pleasant climate and nature in 4 seasons of the year are the most important environmental factors of Masuleh region. The difference in height from the highest point to the lower one is about 100 m which is the reason of creating the unique sight of Masuleh architecture.

The History

The history of the ancient village can be traced back to a site which now lies six kilometers north-west of modern-day Masuleh. With the province of Gilam lying along the Silk Route, the village (previously known as Khortab, or Masalar) developed around an iron mine and soon grew into a thriving commercial hub with trade revolving around the ironworks industry. According to recorded history, the shift in sites was a gradual process led by several unfortunate incidents including a deadly plague epidemic and a massive earthquake. Now known as Kohneh Masuleh, or Old Masuleh, the ancient site exists as little more than a stretch of bare land strewn with rocks, while its (relatively) modern counterpart lives on nearby.

Currently, the economy of Masuleh depends on Tourism industry. The people who live in Masuleh speak in Taleshi with Masulehi dialect. The religion of these people is Islam and they are followers of Shia.

Masuleh is advertised as a so called traditional stepped village, but it lost its rural essence long ago. Yes, it is remote and yes, it is in the mountains, but it is also a very popular tourist destination for people from Tehran. Expect lots of Iranian families with their selfie sticks. One of the popular things to do in Masuleh was taking pictures in traditional clothes. Especially in summer, Masuleh is full with local tourists. Luckily, I was still early in the season and it was more quiet now. 

That said, the journey to Masuleh through the Gilan province is quite spectacular. 

Masuleh also has a spectacular location with incredible mountain sceneries. Even the rain makes it more beautiful when the mist and clouds play their games and the sun is trying to shine through. Masuleh is prime hiking territory and because few tourists actually go out of Masuleh it is not too difficult to escape the crowds. Just follow some of the paths up the mountains and you will be all alone with a few sheeps and maybe a herder.