Yazd Tower of Silence
Tower Zoroastrian funerary tower used for traditional sky burials
On a hill outside Yazd, the Zoroastrian Tower of Silence marks traditional funerary practice sites; visitors study ritual architecture and take panoramic views of the surrounding desert city.
The Yazd Tower of Silence is a Zoroastrian funerary structure (dakhma) located on a hill near the city of Yazd in central Iran. It was built and used according to the traditional Zoroastrian practice of excarnation, where bodies were placed on circular exposure platforms rather than buried or cremated.
The site is characterised by circular, terraced platforms arranged for exposure and by simple masonry walls; the form reflects longstanding religious and practical funerary traditions of Zoroastrian communities. It is a frequently visited heritage landmark in Yazd and is commonly included on cultural tours for its religious and architectural significance.
The tower stands on elevated ground just outside Yazd in Yazd Province, overlooking the city and the surrounding arid plains of central Iran. It is accessible from Yazd and is often visited together with other Zoroastrian and historic sites in the city.
- Function: The structure is a Zoroastrian dakhma, a funerary tower used historically for exposure of the dead under Zoroastrian excarnation practices.
- Location note: It sits on a hill on the outskirts of the city and is visible from parts of Yazd, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert plain.
Tips for Visiting Yazd Tower of Silence #
- Plan to arrive at the Tower of Silence at or shortly before sunset-the hilltop offers a sweeping panorama over Yazd as the city lights come on and guided visits are commonly scheduled in the late afternoon.
- Treat the site as a sacred place: observe from designated viewpoints, follow posted rules, and do not climb onto or walk across the burial terraces; local guides and the Yazd visitor centre can explain the history and cultural context.
- Combine the visit with a stop at the nearby Zoroastrian fire temple and the Zoroastrian Museum in Yazd to get fuller context; ask guides about visiting times because access to the towers themselves is restricted.
Best Time to Visit Yazd Tower of Silence #
Visit between October and April when Yazd's desert temperatures are mild and sightseeing is most comfortable.
Weather & Climate near Yazd Tower of Silence #
Yazd Tower of Silence's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -1°C to 39°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 12°C and lows of -1°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 2°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 17°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 22°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 39°C and lows of 24°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 22°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 11°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 5°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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