If you really love nature, just let it be
The Plain of Overturned Tulips in Koohrang, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province in western Iran is a breathtaking natural wonder that has captivated visitors for generations. Nestled in the heart of the Zagros Mountains, this vast plain is covered in a sea of vibrant red and yellow tulips that stretch as far as the eye can see. The tulips bloom in the spring, transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of color that is truly awe-inspiring. Visitors can wander through the fields, taking in the sights and smells of this natural wonder, or simply sit back and admire the beauty of the plain from a distance. It is a truly magical experience that is not to be missed.
Despite its popularity among tourists, the Plain of Overturned Tulips used to be largely untouched by human activity. The local community has worked hard to preserve the natural beauty of the area, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the tulips in their natural habitat without causing harm to the ecosystem. As a result, the plain, fortunately, still remains a pristine and unspoiled natural wonder that is a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
However, this seems to be changing.
Three days ago, the verified Twitter account, Iranian Plateau, posted a picture that shows a vendor sitting near a bundle of uprooted overturned tulips, offering them to unknowing tourists. The text of the tweet reads: “If you ever visit the Plain of Overturned Tulips in Zagros, do not uproot the flowers, nor buy them from vendors. These flowers will wither hours after being uprooted. Just enjoy watching them.”
The account posted a breathtaking image of the plain, advising against uprooting these lovely flowers. In another tweet, Iranian Plateau informed its followers that a big part of this wonderful plain has fallen into ruin due to uprooting the flowers and livestock grazing.
Sadly, it is not the first time that we hear of our priceless natural wonders and their ecosystems being destroyed due to unmitigated nature tourism. Badab Soort in Mazandaran Province, in northern Iran, is another natural beauty which has come to taste the effects of reckless tourism.
In recent years, nature tourism has become increasingly popular in Iran, with more and more people seeking to explore the natural world and experience the abundant beauty of the country. However, it is important to remember that tourism can have a significant impact on ecosystems and cultures, and that we must take steps to ensure that our travels do not harm the very things we seek to enjoy.
One of the most important aspects of nature tourism is the need for cleanliness. This means not only keeping our own waste and litter to a minimum, but also respecting the natural environment and avoiding actions that could harm it. For example, visitors should avoid disturbing wildlife, or damaging plants, and should be careful not to introduce non-native species that could upset the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Another danger of nature tourism is the potential for changing ecosystems. As more people visit natural areas, they may inadvertently introduce pollutants or invasive species that can disrupt the local environment. This can have serious consequences for both wildlife and humans, as ecosystems provide essential services such as clean water, air, and food.
In addition to environmental concerns, there is also a need to respect local cultures when engaging in nature tourism. This means being mindful of local customs and traditions, and avoiding actions that could be seen as disrespectful or offensive. It is also important to support local economies by patronizing local businesses and buying locally-made products.
Ultimately, the importance of clean nature tourism lies in its ability to connect people with the natural world in a way that is both enjoyable and sustainable. By taking steps to minimize our impact on ecosystems and cultures, we can help ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy these same experiences for years to come.
Now, whether you are an avid nature lover or simply looking for a unique travel experience, a visit to the Plain of Overturned Tulips is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime – just keep in mind that uprooting those flowers is an act against the very nature that you claim to revere.