Yazd Province, the green desert of Iran
The central province of Yazd is associated with a dry climate and burning heat, but this is not the whole story.
A land with various climates, Yazd Province draws a large number of visitors every year. This is because at a distance of less than 20 kilometers from the provincial capital city of Yazd, you will reach the green gardens of Taft, and by traveling a few kilometers towards Shirkouh Mountain, you will get into a completely different weather. It is a surprising phenomenon that cannot easily be ignored, according to IRNA.
The difference in temperature of various cities in Yazd Province, which sometimes reaches 15°C, has led to the creation of amazing resorts in this region.
Due to the drought that hit the region as well as the implementation of mining projects and the production of steel and iron, the resorts are no longer as green as in the past; nevertheless, they still serve as refreshing places for the locals to escape from the summer heat.
The most important geographical feature of the province is Shirkouh Mountain, with an elevation of 4,075 meters. At a very short distance, both hot and cold temperatures can be experienced there.
As one of the highest mountains of central Iran, Shirkouh lies in the southwest of Yazd Province.
Qanat, known also as kariz, is the main source of fresh water supply in the province. For instance, Zarch Qanat, dating back 3,000 years, with the length of 100km, provides water to a large number of agricultural fields.
The starting point of this qanat is in Fahraj village, northeast of Yazd. The qanat runs at a depth of 30-40m beneath the city of Yazd. Then it reaches Zarch, where the water is used for irrigation in the lower lands of the city of Yazd. Moreover, sunlight is found in abundance across Yazd Province.
Taft
Taft, located among mountains, is a city with a pleasant climate. The abundance of pomegranate gardens has helped create beautiful landscapes in and around the city.
Sadri Garden
Sadri Garden, dating back 400 years, hosts the tallest wind catchers of Taft. The amazing architecture of the two monuments built in the middle of the garden dazzle the eyes. About 40 years ago, the garden was renovated.
A lovely pool, with an area of 500 square meters, renders it like a true Persian garden. But here is the best part, inside this pool there are more than 75 fountains that fill the space with the soothing sound of water purring. At the end of the garden, you can also find a watermill.
Cham village
Cham village, with pleasant weather and rural houses with simple and beautiful architecture, is known as a main settlement of the Zoroastrian people.
A 3,000-year old cypress tree and a Zoroastrian fire temple are among the most visited sites of the village. The fire temple, in which various Zoroastrian rituals are held, is of historical significance.
Other attractions
Darreh Gahan Waterfall, which is 20 meters tall, is in the southwest of Taft, in a valley located at the foot of Shirkouh Mountain. The seasonal waterfall is supplied from gradual melting of snow from the top of the mountain.
Pahlavan Baadi Castle, another tourist attraction of the region, is located on top of a big rock, which was the shelter of a person after whom it is named.
Dehbala village, with a roaring river and greenery, and Tezerjan village located next to Shirkouh Mountain are among the other tourist magnets of the area.