Ilam Province capable of becoming a tourism hub
The western Ilam Province, with an old civilization, rich culture and numerous natural, religious and ancient sites can turn into a tourism hub of the country.
The provincial capital city of Ilam, 710 kilometers from Tehran, surrounded by heights covered with forests, enjoys mild mountainous climate with a pleasant spring.
Ilam is one of the most important provinces of the country, capable of attracting investments in various fields including tourism, agriculture, oil and gas, according to IRNA.
Today, tourism is known as one of the world’s most profitable industries in a way that some countries earn a significant income from it.
The improvement of the tourism industry not only helps generate jobs, but transfers the culture and tradition of one land to the other.
Due to its special geographic location, Ilam Province, known as the Bride of Zagros, is a land of four seasons, which can host travelers throughout the year.
The Mehran border crossing, located in Ilam Province, is a one of the most important commercial highways linking Iran to the markets of Iraq and other regional Arab countries.
Instead of focusing on making investments in the oil and gas industries, provincial officials are advised to develop the tourism sector and prepare suitable conditions for traveling businesspeople.
Local officials believe that Ilam Province is ready to absorb investments for expanding its medical, rural, sports, cultural, nomadic and natural tourism. Undoubtedly, making investments in these sectors will produce huge benefits for investors.
Thousands of Iraqi people arrive in Iran through the Mehran border crossing to receive medical treatments in other provinces of the country, thus development of the health sector in the province and establishment of specialized hospitals and clinics is considered a profit-making investment.
Fortunately, there is a great deal of potential for medical tourism in the province, so more investment could lead to a boom in the industry.
However, the tourism infrastructure of the province needs to be further developed.
Moreover, the province has 14 exemplary natural tourism sites and numerous lakes, caves, valleys, canyons, waterfalls, mountains and rivers which help create a relaxing environment for nature lovers.
Due to its geographic location, natural conditions, and the diversity of its habitats, Ilam Province is home to 32 mammals and 183 species of birds. The mountainous areas host many mammals.
In addition to having roaring rivers, artificial and natural lakes, Ilam Province is a desirable destination for those interested in mountain climbing, desert hiking and caving, biking and horseback riding.
On the other hand, Ilam Province hosts numerous remains of the eight-year Iran-Iraq war. This can not only help boost the tourism sector in the province, but also promote the culture of sacrifice and martyrdom.
Various types of traditional handicrafts are presently being manufactured in Ilam Province. Production of traditional floor coverings such as kilim, is an economic activity which can be attractive to private sector investors.