Nature’s beauty and rural life in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province
Roneh River, nature’s hidden gem near Basht
The Roneh River, originating from the 3,000-meter high Khamin Mountain, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, offers a tranquil and dreamy setting for a multi-day journey in the heart of nature. Situated 10 kilometers from the city of Basht, and near the road connecting the southern provinces of the country to Fars Province, this beautiful land resembles a paradise adorned with lush greenery, fragrant wild thyme, colorful flowers, and the pleasant air of spring.
The cool shade provided by walnut, fig, and mulberry trees, coupled with the picturesque views of oak forests, creates a delightful atmosphere that can serve as a memorable and unforgettable destination for nature enthusiasts. The presence of two famous large caves further highlights the artistic beauty of nature in this area.
Tourists selecting Roneh River as their travel destination for the first time often find themselves captivated by the natural beauty of this pristine location, turning it into their permanent haven for future travels.
Ismaeil Tavakoli, who is involved in tourism in Basht, highlighted the significance of the ecotourism lodge nestled in the heights of Khamin Mountain, offering a blend of tourism, mountaineering, and traditional cuisine in the region. Enthusiasts of mountain climbing can easily access this lodge with the guidance of tourism experts after a delightful one-hour trek through the mountains. The ecotourism lodge not only provides a charming and authentic ambiance but also serves guests with local delicacies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tavakoli further explained that the lodge offers a variety of daily meals featuring local butter, eggs, honey, and soup to ensure a memorable culinary experience for visitors.
Saeed Talebipour, the director general of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, underscored the significance of nearby attractions for overnight accommodations in the city. He highlighted, “Roneh River, in close proximity to Basht and the Gachsaran-Shiraz Highway, stands out as a distinctive destination for nature enthusiasts.”
He elaborated, “The presence of an ecotourism lodge and amenities like platforms, bathrooms, and other facilities, coupled with the scenic beauty of Roneh River, have established this area as one of the most sought-after leisure spots in southern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, particularly during the late winter, spring, and summer seasons.”
In reference to the diverse programs for Nowruz (Iranian New Year, March 20-April 1) holidays in Basht, he noted, “Organizing exhibitions showcasing handicrafts and local souvenirs, along with Nowruz festivities, are the primary scheduled events for this year’s Nowruz celebrations in the county.”
The recreational area of Roneh River, situated in the southeast of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, 110 kilometers from Yasuj, the provincial capital, stands out as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the southern region, attracting numerous visitors each year, particularly during the spring season.
Travelers opting for the banks of Roneh River and the rugged mountains not only get to indulge in sightseeing and exploration amidst the stunning landscape but also get a glimpse of the idyllic rural life in southern Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad. The sight of mud-brick houses and thatched roofs adorned with tree branches in the villages of Basht evokes nostalgia and appeals to many tourists more than the opulence of luxury hotels.
Thatched roofs, locally known as parchin or chapar, represent the traditional craftsmanship of the villagers in this province, providing a cool refuge. Additionally, traditional village life in this region showcases the use of tools like small mills for grinding wheat and other food items, along with the utilization of musk bags to keep water or yogurt cool.
The allure of village life extends beyond these elements, as the indigenous traditional music, the attire of hardworking rural residents, and their relentless pursuit of livelihood have turned the villages of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province into a premier destination for Nowruz tourism.