Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province’s natural wonders and cultural heritage
Nestled in the heart of Iran lies Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, a small yet enchanting paradise that beckons travelers with its untouched and awe-inspiring natural treasures.
Endowed with a pristine and beautiful nature, this province serves as the cradle for three mighty rivers: Karun, Dez, and Zayandeh Rud.
The harmonious convergence of these magnificent rivers, along with numerous springs and abundant waterfalls, have sculpted a captivating tapestry of natural landscapes that leave every viewer spellbound.
The region’s climate and geographical features have transformed it into an idyllic haven for nomadic communities, particularly in the west. Nomadic groups thrive off the pursuit of fertile pastures, as their economy revolves around husbandry. Conversely, the eastern fringes of the province are predominantly inhabited by farmers. As for the plant cover, this area boasts a diverse range of landscapes, including lush forests and verdant lawns.
Shahr-e Kord
Shahr-e Kord is the bustling capital city of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. As the largest city in the province, Shahr-e Kord sits proudly just 90 kilometers away from Isfahan, Iran’s impressive third largest city. Explore the rich culture, history, and charm of this vibrant urban center.
Shahr-e Kord is a vibrant tapestry of diverse communities. Within its boundaries, you’ll find three major backgrounds: The proud Bakhtiari, Qashqai, and the Indigenous Persian speakers of Shahr-e Kord. Persian serves as the common language among its inhabitants, reflecting a shared cultural thread.
Shahr-e Kord’s remarkable development can be traced back to its nomadic farming roots. Blessed with vast meadows and abundant springs, it became an enticing haven for these early settlers.
Shalamzar Lake
A town located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, Kiar is renowned for its untouched natural beauty and rich historical attractions, making it a magnet for countless tourists.
Kiar is nestled 35 kilometers from Shahr-e Kord, in the breathtaking region of the Zagros Mountains.
This delightful town boasts a rugged, mountainous landscape and a refreshing alpine climate, offering moderate summers that are just perfect.
Two legendary mountains, Kiar and Sabzkuh, adorn this town with their awe-inspiring beauty. Kiar boasts an abundance of tourist attractions and ancient remnants, showcasing the region’s vibrant civilization and historical significance. It has gained a well-deserved reputation as a land of renowned historical fortresses.
Moreover, this county is home to numerous natural attractions that provide tourists with unforgettable moments when they spend hours exploring them.
Shalamzar Lake, located near a town with the same name in Kiar, is surrounded by stunning scenery. It is a source of two rivers, one of which flows towards the city center and the other towards the town of Dastna.
The lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities, picturesque gazebos, and the enchanting presence of wild and migratory birds. The addition of trout farms has enhanced its beauty, while the presence of a mineral water bottling factory near the spring has further contributed to the prosperity of this recreational spot.
Samsam al-Saltaneh
Castle
Samsam al-Saltaneh Castle, situated in the town of Shalamzar, was constructed during the Constitutional Period by Iran’s then prime minister, Najaf Qoli Khan, known as Samsam al-Saltaneh.
This castle, which was once a residential property, served as a base for constitutionalists. It has been registered on Iran’s National Heritage List.
Amir Mofakham Castle
The Amir Mofakham Castle, located in the village of Dezak, has been home to many notable individuals, including Ali Akbar Dehkhoda, a prominent Iranian literary writer, philologist, and lexicographer, who sought refuge in this castle.
Covering an area of 5,076 square meters, the castle was built in 1875 CE by the order of Amir Mofakham Bakhtiari. Presently, the second floor of this castle is utilized as a costume museum, while the adjacent courtyard serves as a provincial stone museum.
In the Stone Museum you can find stones from the Safavid to Qajar periods on display. Moreover, this museum also features fascinating images of the traditional clothing worn by the Bakhtiari people in the past.
Dopolan village
Continuing along the path, in the village of Dopolan, there exists a bridge called “Pol-e Simi,” which holds the remnants of a nomadic tribe’s migration route. Today, it is preserved as a cherished historical heritage in this region.
This bridge is made up of eight thick wire strands securely connected to both sides of the valley with sturdy metal bolts. Wooden planks have been utilized to cover the bridge’s floor and short walls.
Kharaji Bridge
When we travel from Shahr-e Kord toward the village of Kharaji, along the way we reach the historic Kharaji Bridge, which is the longest in the province. This structure has been registered as a national heritage. Located in the southwestern village of Kharaji, the bridge is constructed on the Kiar River, approximately 30 kilometers from Shahr-e Kord.
Darreh-ye Eshq
Darreh-ye Eshq is one of the natural attractions of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. In the midst of this valley flows the Karun River, the longest in Iran. The turbulent flow and exciting rapids of the river have attracted tourists and sports enthusiasts, giving them the opportunity to experience thrilling rafting adventures.
The valley is truly enchanting with its lush rice paddies and thriving pomegranate orchards. The surrounding area is adorned with an abundance of breathtaking waterfalls. Among them, the Darreh-ye Eshq Waterfall stands out as the crown jewel of this region. It is born deep within the heart of the majestic mountain, cascading down with tremendous velocity and tumbling from great heights.
In the midst of rolling pomegranate orchards and flourishing rice paddies, the majestic waterfall graces the landscape with its presence, creating a truly captivating spectacle. Its sheer grandeur steals the heart of every passerby, leaving them in awe of nature’s power. And as if that weren’t enough, the crystalline springs scattered throughout the valley add an extra touch of allure, enhancing the overall charm of this destination.
In particular, among them are several springs, which contain sulfuric mineral water and possess numerous beneficial properties. Deep within this enchanting landscape lies the picturesque village of Madan, nestled amidst nature’s embrace. Unveiling itself within the village is a spring like no other, beckoning adventurers and seekers of wellness to indulge in its revitalizing waters.
Darreh-ye Eshq is one of the natural attractions of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. In the midst of this valley flows the Karun River, the longest in Iran. The turbulent flow and exciting rapids of the river have attracted tourists and sports enthusiasts, giving them the opportunity to experience thrilling rafting adventures.
The valley is truly enchanting with its lush rice paddies and thriving pomegranate orchards. The surrounding area is adorned with an abundance of breathtaking waterfalls. Among them, the Darreh-ye Eshq Waterfall stands out as the crown jewel of this region. It is born deep within the heart of the majestic mountain, cascading down with tremendous velocity and tumbling from great heights.
In the midst of rolling pomegranate orchards and flourishing rice paddies, the majestic waterfall graces the landscape with its presence, creating a truly captivating spectacle. Its sheer grandeur steals the heart of every passerby, leaving them in awe of nature’s power. And as if that weren’t enough, the crystalline springs scattered throughout the valley add an extra touch of allure, enhancing the overall charm of this destination.
Helen Protected Area
The Helen Protected Area covers an extensive 40,000 hectares, characterized by captivating oak forests that dominate the landscape. Approximately one-fourth of the area consists of lush pastures. This region is named Helen as a tribute to an esteemed American nurse who selflessly tended to the local community in 1931.
This area is home to various plant species including oak, walnut, almond, maple, juniper, and thornbush. It is also inhabited by animals such as fox, badger, gazelle, rabbit, brown bear, golden eagle, and snake.