Visited Iran in September, 2013 as part of a group. Drove to Alamut to see and experience first hand what it is all about. The drive itself was amazing going through a mountainous region. Climbing the fort of Alamut is an adventure itself. I took the help of a donkey to climb half way and then after taking a bit of rest, proceeded to climb over multitude of steps that are narrow and uneven. Missing a step one could end up sliding on the slope and probably in the valley. At the top discovered how water was collected and conserved, where prayer hall was and how strategic the fort was. Noticed some restoration work in progress. A lady served tea to visitors. How Hassan bin Sabbah and his people would have lived here can only be imagined because there were no paved roads in those days and the terrain very challenging.

A great experience!