The Solar Hijri (Shamsi) calendar used in Iran, and how to juggle it alongside the Gregorian and Islamic Lunar calendars.
The Solar Hijri calendar, also known as the Shamsi Hijri calendar, is the official calendar of Iran, commencing on the March equinox (Nowruz). As it is determined by astronomical factors, the new year may vary from year to year, in contrast to the Gregorian calendar, which is fixed. The Solar Hijri calendar comprises either 365 or 366 days per year.
Juggling three calendars. As a foreigner you will now navigate between the Gregorian, the Islamic Lunar Hijri and the Shamsi Hijri calendars — which can quickly become confusing. To minimise errors, download a Persian calendar app on your phone: these typically show all three calendars side by side along with a conversion tool. Popular options include Persian Calendar for Android and iPersia for iOS.
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