Sightseeing places in the south of Iran; Travel to the land of secrets and wonders

In recent years, southern Iran has become one of the important tourist destinations for tourists. Hospitality and warmth of the people of these regions along with hot weather and spicy food are considered to be their important characteristics. Also, the sights of southern Iran fascinate every tourist. In the meantime, we can mention the ancient site of Susa as one of the oldest human settlements and Qeshm mangrove forests as one of the seven wonders of the island, and mention Chabahar’s shining beach with blue lights in the middle of the night and Hormuz’s rainbow valley as one of the amazing geological phenomena.

Sightseeing places in the south of Iran:

Shushtar water structures

• Address: Shariati street, Shushtar, Khuzestan province
• Best time to visit: autumn and winter

Shushtar Water Structures is a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering in the ancient times, the complex system of mills, canals and bridges designed to optimally use the water of the Karun River shows the ingenuity and high knowledge of the engineers of that time. Visiting these structures is like a journey in the heart of engineering history and will introduce you to the intelligent use of natural resources in the past. Imagine how this complex system enriched the life and agriculture of the people of the region centuries ago. These structures are not only a historical attraction, but also an inspiration for the sustainable use of water resources in today’s world.

Shushtar’s water structures were built in the Sassanid and Achaemenid eras. This complex was made of stone and mortar; But it is so strong that many of its components are still standing. Shushtar’s water structures include various parts such as “Kolafarangi Tower”, “Mizan Bridge”, “Dashkand Gargar River”, “Band Bridge” and waterfalls and mills. This ancient structure has been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

_{Photo source: Wikimedia; Photographer: Iman Yari}

The ancient site of Susa

• Address: Khuzestan province, Susa, Imam Khomeini Boulevard
• Best time to visit: Late fall to early spring

“Sush Ancient Site” is one of the oldest human settlements in the world. This city has many historical monuments from different historical periods. From the Apadana Palace and its magnificent gate to the Susa Museum, each one has a story to tell. Susa is not only an ancient city, but also a living testimony of the continuity of life and culture throughout the millennia.

Many works that were obtained from the ancient site of Susa show the settlement and brilliant civilization of this ancient city. Susa is also the magnificent capital of the brilliant civilization of Elam. Many tourists and history lovers travel to the south every year to see this beautiful city.

_{Photo source: visitouriran.com; Photographer: Unknown}

Sardasht Dezful region

• Address: Khuzestan province, Dezful city, Sardasht district
• Best time to visit: Winter and early spring

One of the very beautiful natural attractions that is considered a new destination in the south of Iran is “Sardasht region”. This region reaches the Zagros mountains on one side and the Khuzestan plain on the other side; Due to this attractive location, Sardasht region has a very beautiful and unique nature. Among the beautiful attractions of this area, we can mention the waterfall and fortress of Mohammad Ali Khan, the forest park and Haftanan mountain, all of which have a high capacity in the field of tourism.

Sardasht region has two cities where you can stay in any of these cities; The cities of “Hamzeh” and “Saland” are among the cities of Dezful city that are located in this region with good weather. The interesting thing is that according to geological observations and findings, in the distant years, this area was completely under water and it became this way over many centuries.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Omid Moghdisi}

Karon River in Ahvaz

• Address: Khuzestan province, Ahvaz
• Best time to visit: autumn and winter

Ahvaz can always be remembered with the Karun River. This beautiful and abundant river is the only river in Iran that can be sailed. This river, which originates from the Zagros mountain range and passes through Khuzestan province, gives freshness and beauty to the city of Ahvaz. The areas that are irrigated by this river include; Andika, Izeh, Masjid Suleiman, Shushtar, Ahvaz, Khorramshahr and “Karun” city. In the city of Ahvaz, the most important and oldest bridges have been built on this river, including the White Bridge, the Transit Bridge, the Naderi Bridge, and the Cable Bridge of Ahvaz.

Karun, beyond a river, is a symbol of the identity and culture of the people of Khuzestan. This river has a place in many poems and stories and has been an inspiration to artists since ancient times. Karun beach is considered a place for recreation and relaxation for city residents and travelers; Currently, various industrial and urban pollutions threaten the beauty and freshness of Karun. The decrease in water flow of this river has many effects on the industry and the environment of the region.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Yazdan Keshavarz Pariha}

Shui Dezful waterfall

• Address: Shui village, Shahyoun district, Dezful city, Khuzestan province
• Best time to visit: April and May

For those who have never traveled to Khuzestan, Khuzestan may seem like a hot and dry province; But only after one trip to this beautiful and fertile province, you will realize that the beauties of this province are endless. Among the very heartwarming attractions of Khuzestan, which originates from the heart of the beautiful Zagros mountains, we can mention “Ashwar Shui”. This magnificent waterfall is located in Khuzestan province, near the city of Dezful and in the heart of a pristine and untouched area. Shui waterfall, which is also known as “Tele Zang”, falls down from a height of about 100 meters with full strength and beauty, creating an eye-catching and unforgettable image.

The path leading to Shui Falls is part of an adventure in itself. To reach the waterfall, you have to go through winding roads and unspoiled natural scenery and walk part of the way. This walk in the heart of nature is an opportunity to enjoy the surrounding beauty and breathe fresh air. After reaching the waterfall, you will be faced with an amazing view; A tall and magnificent waterfall that flows down from the heart of the rocks and creates beautiful natural ponds downstream.

_{Photo source: visitouriran.com; Photographer: Unknown}

Chahkouh Qeshm Gorge

• Address: Hormozgan province, Qeshm island, Hara district, Dolab village, East Chahovi village
• Best time to visit: Autumn and winter, early spring

Chahkoh Gorge is the result of years of erosion of sedimentary rocks and is considered one of the best sightseeing places in Qeshm. This gorge is located in “Shahab” area and close to “Chaho” village, and with walls about 100 meters high, it has created a mysterious and silent atmosphere. Walking through this gorge provides a unique experience of silence and peace, in the heart of untouched and pristine nature. Low light and high walls give visitors a special feeling, as if they are walking in another world. This valley is considered a part of Qeshm Geopark, which is registered by UNESCO and shows its importance and high value.

Chahkoh gorge has four sub-straits, and in some places, the distance between the two walls reaches less than half a meter. This unique structure has created unique and attractive perspectives. Visiting this gorge provides an opportunity to learn about geological phenomena and enjoy the beauty of nature.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Mehran Sabze Maidani}

Qeshm mangrove forests

• Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Gorzin New Town, Mangrove Forest Road
• Best time to visit: From late fall to early spring

There is a unique ecosystem in the south of Iran that we will not see anywhere else in our country. “Mangrove forests” are forests that grow in tidal and saltwater areas. Mangrove trees with their special roots, which are called “aerial roots”, can continue to live in saltwater conditions. These roots act as a breathing apparatus for the tree and absorb oxygen from the air and transfer it to the underground parts.

In addition to visual beauty and ecological value, mangroves have many benefits for humans and the environment. These forests are like a natural filter; They absorb pollutants from water and help purify sea water. Also, they protect the coasts from erosion and storms and create a safe habitat for all kinds of aquatic animals, birds and other creatures. Do not miss this unique attraction when traveling to the southern provinces of Iran. You can go to the heart of these special and beautiful trees by boat and enjoy the creation of such nature.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Azadeh Hashemzadeh}

Qeshm Stars Valley

• Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Shahab District, Souza District, northwest of Barke Khalaf village
• Best time to visit: From late fall to early spring

One of the seven wonders of Qeshm Island is a valley with extraordinary structures and strange shapes, which is the result of the erosion of soil, stone and sand over millions of years. This valley, which is located near the village of Barka Khalaf, is known as the “Valley of Stars” due to the special shape of its columns, walls and cliffs. Local people believe that once upon a time a star from the sky hit this area and these strange shapes were created. This valley is part of the Qeshm Geopark, which was registered by UNESCO and shows the high geological and natural value of the region.

When visiting Star Valley, it is as if you are walking next to natural and huge sculptures. The pointed columns and cones, high walls and deep crevices, each tell a story of the earth’s history. Light and shadow during the day create different visual effects in this valley and double its beauty. Especially at sunset, the warm light of the sun shines on these shapes and creates a spectacular and unique sight. Visiting Star Valley is a great opportunity to take photos and record amazing moments in the heart of nature.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Hadi SG}

Bandar Abbas Hindu Temple

• Address: Hormozgan province, Bandar Abbas, Imam Khomeini Blvd., in front of Bandar Abbas day market
• Best time to visit: autumn and winter
• Working hours: From 8 to 18

The wonders of southern Iran’s attractions are so great that you can travel to India and its architecture from the heart of Bandar Abbas city. There is a building with a different and special architecture in Bandar Abbas, which is known as the “Hindu Temple”. This temple is also known as “Bat Goran Temple”. The Hindu temple can be seen as a relic of the booming trade between the Qajar rule and India. Indian merchants who visited this city built this temple. After the Indians left Bandar Abbas, the building fell into ruin until it was restored by the Cultural Heritage Organization.

Today, the Hindu building, as a valuable historical work, hosts tourists who are interested in the history and culture of southern Iran. The exterior of the temple with its white color and vertical grooves and its own congresses, attracts the eyes of every viewer. This temple has not only been a religious place for Hindus, but also a symbol of cultural interaction between the two nations.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: ALİ ÖZYAFA}

The underground city of Kariz Kish

• Address: Hormozgan Province, Kish Island, Olympic Square, Kish Underground City Cultural Tourist Complex (Kariz)
• Best time to visit: Early spring, autumn and winter
• Entrance fee (1403): 196,000 tomans
• Working hours: From 9 to 21:30

The “underground city of Kariz” is more than 2500 years old and is located on Kish Island. This underground city is actually a collection of old aqueducts. These aqueducts were used in the past to supply fresh water to the inhabitants of the island. Kariz Kish, with underground tunnels and coral roofs, is a unique example of Iranian art and knowledge in the field of water engineering. This underground city is located at a depth of 16 meters underground and with an area of ​​about 10,000 square meters, it displays a wonderful world.

Visiting Kariz is a different and fascinating experience and will introduce you to the history and culture of this region. The roof covered with shells and corals is one of the unique features of Kariz. These fossils are millions of years old and have given a special and spectacular effect to this underground city. Walking through the tunnels of Kariz and seeing these natural works arouses a sense of curiosity and wonder in the visitors.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Hadi Karimi}

Martian mountains of Chabahar

• Address: Sistan and Baluchistan province, about 50 km from Chabahar, Chabahar-Gwatar road
• Best time to visit: Early spring, autumn and winter

“Martian mountains” or miniature Chabahar, are a unique geological phenomenon in the southeast of Iran and in the province of Sistan and Baluchistan. Due to their special shape and gray and white color, these mountains present an extraterrestrial view similar to the surface of Mars. Martian mountains are about five million years old and are composed of marine sediments, sand and remains of marine organisms. The height of these mountains varies from a few meters to more than a hundred meters. Visiting this area provides a unique opportunity for photography and watching pristine landscapes. In few places in the world, you can find similar mountains. To reach these mountains, drive about 40 to 50 km from Chabahar towards Bandar Gwatar.

Martian mountains are not only a natural tourist attraction, but also of great importance for researchers and geologists. Walking between these ancient mountains creates a strange feeling. An experience similar to walking on another planet, which has been the dream of mankind for a long time and still is.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Mehdi Faraji}

Brace Pier

• Address: Sistan and Baluchistan province, Dashtiari city, Central sector, Beris village
• Best time to visit: Late fall and winter

Among the most beautiful beaches of Makran Sea, which is located in Chabahar, we can mention Brice Beach and Wharf. During the fishing season, the barges and fishing boats of this area create a very eye-catching sight on the water. The movement of colored boats to this pier creates a special landscape that is very attractive to tourists.

Currently, there are two areas in Brace Beach, one of which is for fishermen and unloading their cargo, and the other part includes a rocky beach from which you can watch the beautiful Brace Beach. To go to this rocky beach, it is better to use a private car so that you can enjoy the various beauties of the road on your way. One of the beautiful effects of Brace pier shows itself at sunset. When you stand on top of this Zebba rock at the right time, you can easily watch the sunset and take unique photos. In the past, it was forbidden to go to the pier and port of Bryce and it could only be visited with a permit; But today all tourists can enjoy its beauty.

_{Photo source: Google Map site; Photographer: Reza Sh}

Shabtab Chabahar beach

• Address: Sistan and Baluchistan province, Kanarak city, central sector, Kehir district, Bandar Teng
• Best time to visit: Early November to early April

Among other amazing natural phenomena located in the south of Iran and in the province of Sistan and Baluchistan, we can mention the “Sunshine Beach of Chabahar”. This beach, which is also called the luminous beach, emits a brilliant blue light at night due to the presence of tiny marine organisms called “phytoplanktons”. Due to the movement of water or reaction with oxygen, these phytoplanktons show a chemical phenomenon that leads to the production of light. This phenomenon, especially in autumn and winter seasons and in dark nights, gives a unique effect to the beach and creates a dreamy and unforgettable view. It is better to travel to this beach on nights without a full moon so that the light of phytoplankton can be seen well.

In addition to watching the light of phytoplanktons, Chabahar’s Shabtab beach also provides other opportunities to have fun and enjoy nature. Walking on the beach and listening to the sound of the waves, watching the starry sky in the dark nights and photographing this unique phenomenon are among the activities you can do.

_{Photo source: dornatrips.com; Photographer: Unknown}

The beautiful islands of Qeshm

• Address: Hormozgan Province, southeast of Qeshm Island, Naz Islands
• Best time to visit: Mid-autumn to early spring

“Naz Islands” are a set of two small rocky islands on the eastern coast of Qeshm Island, which are famous for their tidal phenomenon. During low tide, a strip of land connects these two islands to the Qeshm coast, making it possible for visitors to walk to these islands and enjoy the unique landscape around them. This experience gives tourists the feeling of walking in the heart of the sea and is considered one of the most attractive parts of visiting this area. The area of ​​​​these islands is estimated to be about three hectares, and rocky walls, with a height of five to 10 meters, cover them.

The best time to visit Naz Islands is during low tide, because only at this time, you can easily access the islands. When the tide begins, the water rises again and the islands are separated from the shore; Therefore, before going, be sure to find out about the sea tide time so that you can benefit from this natural phenomenon in the best way. From the top of the rocks of the Naz Islands, you can see a beautiful view of the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and Lark Island.

_{Photo source: hotelfulton.com; Photographer: Unknown}

Susan Izeh plain

• Address: Khuzestan province, Izeh city, Sosan district, Sosan plain
• Best time to visit: From February to early June

“Izeh Lily Plain” is like a green gem in the heart of Khuzestan province and about 35 km northwest of Izeh city. This vast and beautiful plain, with its eye-catching combination of wide meadows, colorful wild flowers, especially red anemones, and the overflowing Karun River that runs through it, has created a unique landscape. Sosan plain is actually a vast area between Khuzestan province and Chaharmahal Bakhtiari, which is divided into two parts, West Sosan and East Sosan, by the Karun River. Due to its diverse vegetation and mild climate, this plain reaches its peak beauty in the spring and makes it an attractive destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural beauty, Dasht Sosan also has a rich historical background. The existence of ancient monuments and stone inscriptions left from the Elamite and Parthian eras in this area tells about the antiquity of this area. Among these works, we can mention ancient sites, hills, castles and reliefs. Visiting Sosan Plain provides a great opportunity to enjoy the pristine nature and learn about the ancient history of this land. The best time to travel to this plain is winter and spring, especially May.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Maryam Zareian}

Shadgan lagoon

• Address: Khuzestan province, Shadgan city, Khanafre district, Sarakhieh village, Shadgan wetland
• Best time to visit: Late fall to early spring

“Shadgan Lagoon”, the largest lagoon in Iran, is located in the southwest of the country in Khuzestan province. This wetland, which consists of three main parts, “Shadgan”, “Khor Musa” and “Khor Alamieh”, covers an area of ​​about 400,000 hectares. Shadgan Lagoon is known as an international wildlife sanctuary and is known as the habitat of various species of plants and animals, especially migratory birds. The water of this lagoon is supplied from the Karun River and the tides of the Persian Gulf, which have created a unique biodiversity in it. Among the important villages that are known as the Venice of Iran, Sarakhieh village is located in the heart of this wetland.

Visiting Shadgan Wetland provides a great opportunity to experience nature tourism and observe wildlife. Boating among the reeds and watching various birds are among the activities you can do in this area. This wetland also plays an important role in the development of the region as a tourist attraction; But unfortunately, this wetland is facing challenges such as pollution and reduction of water input, which needs more serious attention and protection.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Yalda Kord}

Kish Aquarium

• Address: Hormozgan Province, Kish Island, Marjan Boulevard, Art Center Building
• Best time to visit: autumn and winter
• Entrance fee (1403): 330,000 tomans
• Working hours: Saturday to Thursday, from 8 to 20

Kish Aquarium, one of the most popular sightseeing places in Kish, provides a unique opportunity to learn about the underwater world of the Persian Gulf. This complex, which is located in the southeast part of the island and near the dolphin park, includes two main aquariums with different volumes. A larger aquarium, with a capacity of 50,000 liters, hosts larger aquatic species; Like sharks, tuna and other sea creatures. In the smaller aquarium with a capacity of 20,000 liters, you can see colorful ornamental fish, turtles and other smaller aquatic life alongside beautiful marine plants.

Visiting Kish Aquarium will be a memorable experience for all ages, especially children and those interested in the underwater world. To access the Kish Aquarium, you can use a taxi, minibus or private car. Also, its proximity to other Kish tourist attractions, such as the Dolphin Park, makes it possible to visit several attractions in one day.

_{Photo source: tourmes.com; Photographer: Unknown}

Hormuz Rainbow Valley

• Address: Hormozgan Province, Hormoz Island, southwest of the island, Rainbow Valley
• Best time to visit: autumn and winter

Rainbow Valley, one of the most amazing sights of Hormuz Island, is located in the southwest of the island. This valley is world famous because of the unique variety of colors of its soil and rocks. the presence of various minerals and oxides; Such as iron, sulfur and other elements, they have created a wide range of colors, from red and yellow to white, brown, orange and even green and gold in this valley. According to the locals, there are more than 70 types of colored soil in this valley. Each has its own uses. This variety of colors created a unique and spectacular view that enchants every viewer.

Visiting Hormuz Rainbow Valley provides a unique experience for those interested in geology, photography and nature tourism. Walking among these unique colors and watching colorful mountains gives a person the feeling of navigating in another planet. To reach this valley, you can use local vehicles or reach this area on foot.

_{Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Omid M}

Hormuz Red Beach

• Address: Hormozgan Province, southern part of Hormoz Island
• Best time to visit: Late fall and winter

The Red Beach of Hormuz, also known as the “Bloody Beach”, is considered one of the most unique beaches in the world and one of the attractions of Hormoz Island, in the south of Iran. The red color of this beach is pink or red due to the presence of abundant iron oxide in its soil. This color includes not only the beach, but also parts of the sea water. This natural phenomenon, by creating a very beautiful and eye-catching landscape, attracts many tourists from all over the world to this area. Watching the red waves next to the colorful rocks is an unforgettable experience. This beach is located in the southern part of the island and it is easily accessible through the asphalt road around the island.

The Red Coast has a high geological value. Walking on the beach and seeing the shells that have turned red due to the presence of red soil is one of the other attractions of this beach. A visit to this beach is highly recommended, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the colors become more intense and striking. If you are looking for a different experience and a rare natural phenomenon, include a visit to the Red Beach of Hormuz in your travel plan.

_{Photo source: iranmagma.ir website; Photographer: Unknown}

Ganaveh port

Ganaveh port, located in Bushehr province, is one of the important and historical ports on the northern shores of the Persian Gulf. The historical background of Gnave goes back to ancient times and in historical texts, it had names such as “Gnaba”, “Ganefe”, “Jenfe” and “Jenaba”. This historical record is a testimony to the importance of this port during different ages.

The economy of Genova is mostly based on maritime trade and commerce. Ganave commercial markets have gained a lot of fame with a wide variety of goods and attract many tourists every year. In addition to trade, fishing and tourism are other sources of income for the people of this region. The beautiful and peaceful beaches of Ganave, with facilities such as swimming, boating and other water activities, provide a good opportunity to spend leisure time. The combination of business, history and nature has made Ganaveh an attractive destination for tourists and researchers. Historical attractions and ancient hills such as “Shah Naseri” in the east of Ganaveh village, “Tal Mohammad Haider” hill in the northern part of the village and “Klat” hill in the south of the village have turned this port into one of the historical attractions.

_{Photo source: armandaily.ir; Photographer: Unknown}

Have you ever traveled to the south of Iran? Which of these attractions is more attractive to you? Which attraction do you think you will choose to visit in your future travels? Please share your views and experiences with other Kajaro users.

_{Photo source: Wikimedia; Photographer: Amirhossein Marami}