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May 20, 2024Among other things, Iran's Geography, great history, and culture make it a treasure of infinite natural beauty. From mountain peaks to deserts to glistening coastlines, there is an adventure for every nature lover in Iran. Here are the 9 wonders of nature in Iran:
1. Mount Damavand
Damavand Mountain, Iran, by Ninara via Flickr
Damavand Mountain - the Roof of Iran: This gigantic mountain reaches an unbelievable altitude of 5,671 meters (18,605 ft) above the ground level. A completely inactive stratovolcano—indeed, the highest summit in all of Iran and, in fact, the entire Middle East. Thrill seekers climb to conquer the rough slopes of the mountain, which sometimes offer the best panoramic view from the peak.
2. The Lut Desert - Extraterrestrial Beauty
Ninaras, CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Prepare yourself for scorching heat amidst surreal landscapes in the Lut Desert. As the GWR holder of the hottest temperature on Earth (above 70°C or 158°F), this vast desert boasts unparalleled beauty. Here, immense towering natural rock formations shoot from the ground—affectionately dubbed the "Kaluts"—of a lunar-like landscape formed by millions of years of wind erosion. You will find hidden canyons and dazzling salt flats to discover, experiencing the harsh beauty of this unforgiving but strangely captivating desert.
3. The Caspian Sea Paradise
Caspian Sea, Antti Lipponen, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
The "Largest Lake" - Being the world's largest lake by surface area, the Caspian Sea is one of the most breathtaking beach resorts. The Iranian Caspian coastline is over 700 kilometers long and has beautiful beaches great for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in freshwater sports. Foodies can take pleasure in the bounties of the Caspian, from routine food to some world-famous Iranian caviar. Check out the attractive coastal towns and smell that relaxed feeling by simply breathing the air in this lovely summer destination.
4. The Island Paradise
Qeshm Island/قشم, https://flic.kr/p/vMmKsa
Explore the Wonders of Qeshm – The biggest island in Iran, it boasts many exotic and varied landscapes that extend from pristine, sandy beaches lapped by the azure waters of the sea to rocky cliffs, from salt caves to unique mangrove forests, A visit to Portuguese Fort offers a voyage into the past, while centuries-old trees growing in Hara forests have strived against all odds to thrive in salt waters.
5. Wonders of Tang-e Chowgan
Tang-e Chowgan by youngrobv via Flickr
Nicknamed the "Valley of Wonders," Tang-e-Chowgan is a dramatic canyon that seems to have been carved out by time itself. Steep cliffs, towering rock pillars, and hidden caves never cease to amaze those walking by. Follow in the footsteps of history, as this was once a vital link on the ancient Silk Road. Look for ancient inscriptions and reliefs; remnants of the Median and Achaemenid Empires whisper tales of ancient eras.
6. Dasht-e Kavir National Park
Kavir National Park, CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED via Animalia
The desert showcases the beauty and diversity of the landscape in Iran. Spectacular sand dunes rise dramatically from the desert, while mountains scoured by the wind create a backdrop to life with a view that is nothing short of amazing. Hidden desert lakes—transient in nature—create pockets of life that pull a one-of-a-kind array of wildlife. Keep an eye open for majestic birds like the Houbara bustard, agile caracals, elusive sand cats, and even wild sheep that have adapted to these harsh yet fascinating environments.
7. Eagles' Nest
Remains of Alamut Castle Clinging to a Crag Above the Valley of the Assassins, Iran, Julia Maudlin from Lake Oswego, Oregon, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Revealing the Secrets of Alamut Castle: Located on the summit of a magnificent 2,100-meter peak in the Alborz Mountains, once upon a time, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was thought to contain Alamut Castle. Constructed in the 11th century, the castle had been the fortification for the mysteriously enticing Ismaili Assassins, a splinter cult faction under Hassan-i-Sabbāh. Walk amidst the ruin of the castle and allow your imagination to piece together the lives of those who dwelt there many years ago. It leads up to the panoramic view of the surrounding valleys in beautiful colors, making it an exciting place for history and nature lovers.
8. Kish Island
Carol, Kish Island, Mehrraz, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Duty-Free Luxuries and Pristine Beaches: Kish Island is a blend of luxury relaxation and historical exploration. This resort isle features untouched beaches bathed by turquoise waves, where you can either take a dive, sunbathe or have water sports fun. Its duty-free status makes it a shopper's paradise, where everything from high-end brands to average purchases goes at attractive rates. The ancient city of Harireh presents the history buff with his fill—a reminder of just how much this island has seen in its past. Kish is a place that looks after all its visitors, right from one who is used to the most luxurious to one who likes an element of intrigue as he steps into the pages of history.
9. A Surreal Encounter
Hara Forests, Mehr News Agency, CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Hara Forests: For a genuinely surreal experience, step onto Qeshm Island's Hara Forests. Made up of trees up to a millennium old, their long life has hemmed them to grow in salty water. Their gnarled, twisted branches and trunks lend an otherworldly atmosphere unlike anything else you will ever see. Resilient trees symbolize the power of nature and remind us that everything in our ecosystems depends on the balance in place.
From the mesmerizing heights of Mount Damavand to the exotic beauty of the Lut Desert to island paradises, Iran presents a treasure trove of natural wonders. So pack your bags, wear your shoes, and let this beautiful country show you its breathtaking beauty.
