Beauty, benefits of Garab Spring Complex
The holy shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH) is the focal point of Mashhad, drawing numerous visitors. However, the city also boasts many natural attractions that offer delightful experiences. One such gem is Garab Spring Complex, which comprises several springs, each with its unique features. This natural masterpiece is a valuable treasure, renowned for its abundant therapeutic benefits.
Despite its remarkable characteristics, Garab Spring Complex is located 50km from Mashhad and just 1km from the old Mashhad-Neyshabur road, yet it has not received adequate attention and remains difficult to access.
What makes this attraction particularly noteworthy is that the water from each spring contains distinct mineral compositions, resulting in a variety of tastes and colors, ranging from sour and salty to bitter. This diversity adds to the uniqueness of Garab Spring Complex, which includes several cone-shaped springs located 500 meters apart, IRNA wrote.
The largest spring in this collection, characterized by its green water, sits atop a 30-meter-high mound and is considered the source from which the others flow.
Researchers have confirmed the valuable therapeutic properties of the spring water through extensive studies. Water geology experts classify Garab Spring as part of chloride sodium iron-bearing and hyperthermal waters with high total dissolved solids and elevated acidity levels.
Further scientific investigations reveal that the water from the springs is rich in chloride and sulfate salts, as well as saturated compounds, suggesting a connection to abundant underground sources of these minerals. These compounds are remnants found in sedimentary deposits from the Triassic period.
For many years, local residents have sought healing from these springs for various skin ailments. Research indicates that the water significantly aids in eliminating waste materials from the body due to its unique compounds. Additionally, studies show that springs’ water can be highly beneficial for treating joint diseases and enhancing the secretion of gastric fluids, bile, saliva, and pancreatic enzymes, among other therapeutic properties.
During your trip to Garab, amidst these beautiful springs, you will undoubtedly be drawn to a peak. This peak, with an elevation of about 70 meters, closely resembles volcanic summits. If you climb to the top of this stunning peak, you will see its volcanic crater, which extends around eight meters from the summit down to the water’s surface, while the rest is filled with water. There is an intriguing claim that this water basin may connect to an underground water tunnel. Regardless of the speculation, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing bath in its waters.
Overall, considering all the aforementioned information about Garab Spring Complex, it’s clear this site is one of the unique and valuable natural heritages and tourist attractions of Khorasan Razavi Province. Not only is it fascinating for geologists, but its exceptional therapeutic properties make it an excellent option for attracting a diverse range of tourists and boosting local tourism. To fully realize this potential, greater efforts must be made to promote the spring and substantially improve access routes and facilities in the surrounding area beyond their current state.