Bahabad, a remote paradise in Yazd Province
Bahabad is situated in the east of Yazd Province, 200 kilometers away from the city of Yazd and 80 kilometers from the city of Bafq. It is nestled on a hill between two mountain ranges, bordered by Ardakan to the north, Bafq to the west and southwest, Tabas and Lut Desert to the east, and Kerman Province to the south. Bahabad experiences a semi-arid climate with an average annual rainfall of 9.153 millimeters. The western and southern parts offer mountainous and pleasant climates, attracting visitors for relaxation and leisure during the spring and summer seasons, irrespective of their proximity to the region.
It is the main river in Bahabad, flowing through the plain area in the northern part of the county. The surrounding lands of this river are a geological wonder, drawing university students and researchers in the fields of geography and geology for study and exploration.
Stretching approximately 11 kilometers, this river is primarily fed by rain, snow, and springs from the Banestan and Asfij mountains, eventually flowing into the Kavir Desert. Its location near a protected hunting area contributes to its rich biodiversity.
This river is called Shoor because of its salty water (Shoor means salty in Persian). This area is a unique aquatic habitat in the province, with the number of species exceeding 5000. This unique habitat is monitored daily by executive officers to prevent hunting and poaching violations.
Furthermore, this area is one of the natural attractions of Bahabad, with a large number of visitors annually. The vegetation cover and the surrounding lands of Shoor River are also geographically significant, to the extent that desert hiking around the salty river is very inspiring and memorable.
The region’s abundance of food, water, and shelter supports a diverse array of valuable species, including sheep, goats, gazelles, leopards, lynxes, jackals, as well as various birds and reptiles.
Chellehkhaneh village, located along the Shoor River, is a natural and picturesque area. This historic village, found on the western shore of the river, remains uninhabited. Named after the forty houses that once stood within it, Chellehkhaneh (Forty Houses) now sees local farmers cultivating wheat and pistachios on parts of its agricultural lands. The village is equipped with an irrigation channel that runs from the eastern mountains to the settlement, along with a tower that was once used for surveillance. In addition to its adobe and clay houses, Chellehkhaneh features small caves carved beneath the cliffs, originally used for storing livestock and grains in ancient times.
The cultural heritage and tourist attractions of Bahabad are among the least recognized tourist spots in the province, known mostly to the local community because of their remote location from the provincial center. It is crucial to prioritize the promotion of these attractions and utilize them to draw both domestic and international tourists to the area.