Discovering the wonders of Kani Gravan Spring
Kani Gravan Spring is a natural attraction that bubbles up from the heart of the earth, surrounded by unique features. The surrounding limestone hills, shaped by nature, showcase a beautiful aspect of this region. The Kani Gravan Spring is considered one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in West Azarbaijan Province, located about 12 kilometers away from the city of Sardasht. The cold water of this spring is undrinkable due to its salinity. Over time, the sediment of minerals present in the spring has created a colorful limestone structure around it, enhancing the spring’s beauty. Additionally, the chemical interactions of the spring water have caused the height of this structure to increase every year. In winter, the limestone structure freezes, while the spring water continues to flow due to its salt content, IRNA wrote. The origin of the spring’s name is unclear. Many locals interpret its name as a term from the Kurdish language. In Kurdish, Gravan means hard and heavy water, possibly referring to the high mineral content in the water of this spring.
Features
Kani Gravan is a rich mineral water spring with a mineral concentration of over one gram per liter. The healing properties of this spring are significant, and it can be classified among sparkling mineral springs, widely utilized for various beauty and skin treatments. In fact, the main fame of Kani Gravan Spring comes from its bubbling water, which has beneficial properties used in biophysiological therapies.
The presence of natural and mineral salts in the water of Kani Gravan Spring has spurred the development of therapeutic tourism in the area, attracting many visitors each year for the treatment of skin diseases, bone pain, as well as ailments like rheumatism and muscle pain, directing them to Sardasht and the village of Kani Goyz.
As the water flows over the surface, it leaves behind materials that over time create an interesting conical structure, resulting in a colorful hill. This hill, set amidst the lush nature of the region, creates an eye-catching view with a beautiful color spectrum. The limestone structure, from which the spring bubbles, is about 20 meters tall.
The river passing at the base of this natural structure is the Hormozabad River. This river becomes full in the spring, irrigating its surrounding environment and presenting a pleasant and green scenery filled with blooming meadows. The water flowing from this spring eventually merges into the Little Zhab River.
On the road leading to the Kani Gravan Spring from Mahabad, you will be greeted by lush greenery, pleasant weather, and beautiful scenery — especially in spring, when wheat fields, oak forests, and flowing waterfalls create a unique view. The bubbling water in rivers also adds to this beauty.
The uniquely colored limestone hills attract every viewer, creating an attractive space for photography. You can set up a picnic for a few hours in the meadows surrounding the spring and enjoy this marvelous nature.
There are no accommodation facilities around the spring; it is better to stay in one of the nearby towns, with Sardasht being the best option, just about 12 kilometers from the spring.
Best time to visit
The peak beauty of this area is in spring and summer, showcasing its flowing rivers, lush landscapes, and pleasant weather. With the arrival of autumn and the onset of winter, the spring and its surrounding nature still retain their beauty, and the freezing and snow-covering of the limestone hill during these seasons presents visitors with an extraordinary and stunning view.
Tips for visiting
Access to the spring is easy, and visitors of all ages can enjoy it. It is advisable to park your vehicle at the end of the dirt road and walk through the beautiful surrounding meadows. On the way to the waterfall, you will encounter a very beautiful mountainous road.
During your trip to West Azarbaijan Province, be sure to include a visit to this spring in your itinerary; especially since this spring is the second most famous attraction in Sardasht after the Shalmash Waterfall.