Autumn’s hidden charms in desert regions of Iran
The autumn season, despite not being widely regarded as the ideal time for travel due to the start of the academic year and shorter days, holds a hidden charm that can transform a travel experience into an unforgettable memory.
As the third season of the Iranian year gracefully unfolds, temperatures gently decline, and nature adorns itself with a breathtaking palette of changing colors. This picturesque transformation is often accompanied by the soothing melody of autumn drizzles, creating a symphony for the senses. It is during this time that the allure of nature tourism reaches its peak, making it one of the most enchanting seasons to explore.
In the vast expanse of Iran’s land, where desert and semi-desert regions dominate, the warm climate of the first half of the year restricts visitation. However, autumn emerges as a golden opportunity to venture into these captivating landscapes. Moreover, it presents the perfect chance for a delightful autumn weekend getaway, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the season.
One of the most captivating destinations for autumn trips near Tehran unveils itself in the ethereal beauty of the Varamin Plain and the southeastern realms of Tehran Province. Nestled less than 50 kilometers from Tehran, the journey to Varamin is a delightful passage through lush greenery and enchanting agricultural plains. The ancient route itself holds a magnetic allure, beckoning travelers with its timeless charm.
Venturing southward from Varamin, two mesmerizing routes unfold, each offering a gateway to the desert’s mesmerizing wonders. Should you choose the leftward path, an amazing journey awaits, leading you towards the captivating realms of Qasr-e Bahram and the majestic Kavir National Park.
Qasr-e Bahram Caravanserai, also known as Rabat-e Siahkuh, stands as a testament to the allure of this region. Its origins are steeped in the mystique of the Sassanid era, although the exact date remains shrouded in the mists of time. The presence of stone water channels, a relic of antiquity preceding the Safavid era, hints at the enduring legacy of this architectural marvel.
In the past, before the establishment of the Tehran-Qom highway, this very route reigned as the shortest and most prominent passage connecting Tehran and Kashan. It stood as a vital thoroughfare, facilitating the flow of travelers and commerce, etching its significance as a major artery of transportation.
Embark on this autumn escapade, where history intertwines with nature’s grandeur, and let the whispers of the past guide your journey through the captivating landscapes of Varamin and beyond.
The Caravanserai of Qasr-e Bahram, which is considered one of the enchanting attractions of Semnan, was nationally registered in 1975 and is recognized as the prime location in the breathtaking Kavir National Park for the development of ecotourism.
There is another route that awaits nature enthusiasts in the southern realms of Varamin. Embark upon an enchanting journey along a road that gracefully winds its way from Garmsar to Qom. This route is more suitable for one-day autumn trips and is also accessible by car.
As you traverse this mesmerizing route, prepare to be captivated by the wonders that unfold before your very eyes. After venturing out approximately 10 kilometers, a majestic tapestry of a vast wetland reveals itself, a sanctuary teeming with a symphony of aquatic and marshland birds, as well as a myriad of other splendid creatures.
Nestled in the western reaches of the desert’s protected expanse, within the Masileh Plain lies the Hoze Marreh Wetland. It graciously awaits your arrival at kilometer 50 of the Qom-Garmsar highway, a jewel among the five cherished wetlands of Qom Province.
Next to the highway, fortunately, there are enchanting spots to stop the car and immerse oneself in their breathtaking beauty. Following this scenic route will eventually bring you to the captivating city of Qom.
And when it’s time to head back to Tehran, you can take the Qom-Tehran highway, which boasts its own unique allure and splendor, especially during the magical autumn season.
The Koshk-e Nosrat area and the mountainous village of Baghak, located in the Aliabad Pass and on the old road from Qom to Tehran, are among the natural tourist attractions of this route.
In the route from Varamin to Qom, which passes right through the heart of the desert marshes, you can notice sandy dunes and thorny trees in some areas, indicating the desert and barren nature of the region.
Right in this area, on the southern side of this highway, there is a Shah Abbasi Caravanserai that also has suitable facilities such as a restaurant and accommodations.
The Deir-e Gachin Caravanserai is 80 kilometers northeast of Qom. It is a historic and grand caravanserai, known as the mother of caravanserais in Iran. In the past, it had a dome made of plaster, which no longer exists, and that’s why it is called Deir-e Gachin, literally meaning “cloister of plaster”.
The history of Deir-e Gachin Caravanserai dates back to the Sassanid era, and it underwent changes during the Safavid period. This caravanserai has an area of 12,000 square meters, with the main building covering 8,000 square meters. It includes 43 rooms, a royal courtyard, a secluded courtyard, eight camel stables, two shops, a bathhouse, and a mosque.
Mohammadabad Stone Caravanserai is also one of the historical buildings along this route. It is located 48 kilometers from Qom, on the road to Garmsar. It is considered one of the largest caravanserais of its kind and has been registered as a national heritage.
This structure goes back to the 11th century CE and features massive stone walls and eight watchtowers that give it a special grandeur and magnificence. In the vicinity of this caravanserai, the remains of Mohammadabad Castle, dating back to the Parthian period, are visible.
Keep in mind that when traffic to the northern provinces is at its peak, opting for a route towards the desert and central regions can not only help you avoid fatigue and traffic, but also provide a cost-effective and unforgettable experience.