Experience magic, majesty of Bandar Kong
As one of the cities in Hormozgan Province, Bandar Kong is located in southern Iran and is recognized as the central district of Bandar Lengeh. It lies about five kilometers from Bandar Lengeh and connects to the waters of the Persian Gulf via a coastal line. This stunning port city, with its rich blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, is emerging as a captivating destination for travel enthusiasts.
The climate in southern Iran is typically warm and humid, and Bandar Kong is no exception. As one of the southern port cities, it experiences high humidity levels, especially during the summer months, which can be challenging for non-locals who are not accustomed to such conditions. Therefore, the best times to travel to Bandar Kong are in the fall, winter, and during Nowruz (Persian New Year) when the weather becomes more spring-like.
Bandar Kong boasts a rich historical background, having once been considered one of the key trade bases in the Persian Gulf. This beautiful port is renowned not only for its delectable cuisine but also for offering travelers a distinctive experience through its historical sites, pristine natural landscapes, and welcoming local accommodations, IRNA wrote.
The people of Bandar Kong, shaped by the city’s long and vibrant history, possess a rich and diverse culture. Over the years, various traditions and customs have intertwined to create the unique cultural fabric of Bandar Kong today. The residents are deeply committed to their customs, traditions, and history, striving to keep them alive. These customs and traditions permeate every aspect of daily life and are regarded as one of the region’s main attractions.
Amidst the various events, local foods, handicrafts, and other cultural phenomena, one can clearly trace the diverse traditions of the people of this land. Among the many ceremonies celebrated by the people of Bandar Kong, the following are particularly noteworthy:
Sea New Year: This vibrant summer ceremony, known as Nowruz-e Daryai in Persian, involves people gathering by the sea to splash each other with red clay, paint tree trunks and animal horns, and engage in joyful celebration.
Wedding Ceremony: The customs and ceremonies surrounding marriage in Bandar Kong are celebrated with great grandeur. Historically, each marriage was marked by seven days and nights of feasting and joy. Nowadays, due to economic conditions, the ceremony is typically held over three days; however, efforts are made to honor all traditional customs. The bride and groom reside in rooms adorned with mirrors and colorful ornaments for a period ranging from one week to six months.
Among the highlights of Bandar Kong are the Portuguese Castle and the Anthropology Museum, which showcase the city’s unique heritage.
At one point in history, the southern region of Iran was occupied by the Portuguese. During this time, they constructed a harbor and military fortress in Bandar Kong to safeguard their interests. Today, from that grand structure, only a tower and remnants of the fortress remain. The tower, made of stone and mortar, invites visitors to walk inside and admire its architectural beauty.
Ponds
One of the significant attractions of Bandar Lengeh is its traditional ponds. These ponds, which have been utilized since ancient times for water storage, include one of the largest cisterns known as Berkeh-ey Darya Dowlat, named for its impressive dimensions. This remarkable cistern has a diameter of approximately 28 meters and a depth of about 14 meters.
Constructed of stone and mortar, Berkeh Darya Dowlat features a large windcatcher on top for natural ventilation of the water inside. The vastness of this cistern means that it was designed without a roof, allowing it to remain naturally cool. Dating back to the Atabakan Era of Fars Province, Berkeh-ey Darya Dowlat has remained intact since then. To visit this beautiful cistern, you can head north from Bandar Kong toward the Bastak road.
Lashton Fortress
One of the must-visit attractions during your trip to Bandar Kong is the ancient Lashton Fortress, which dates back to before the Islamic era. This historical fortress offers a unique glimpse into the region’s past. When you ascend to the highest point of the castle, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding kaluts, the entire city of Bandar Kong, and the vast expanse of the Persian Gulf. Its strategic location atop one of the mountains in the area means that Lashton Fortress is not easily visible from below.
Historically, a staircase was carved into the mountain’s rocks to provide access to the castle, which was surrounded by a high wall and protected by several watchtowers. From these vantage points, guards could effectively monitor the surrounding areas and keep a watchful eye on the Persian Gulf.
Shopping centers
Since ancient times, Bandar Kong has served as a hub for trade and the movement of various commercial ships, making it a vibrant marketplace. The city boasts beautiful markets that are perfect for shopping. The fish market is a highlight, offering freshly caught fish to both travelers and locals. Another significant market is the Bandar Bazaar, located on Talghani Street, where you can find a variety of handicrafts made by local artisans. Additionally, the Badgir Shopping Center, situated on Shahid Rajaei Street, is another great spot to purchase goods at reasonable prices.
Beach
One of the enchanting sights in Bandar Kong is the array of boats at the wharf and beach. The scene, filled with both small and large boats, provides a picturesque backdrop for your photographs. At the beach, there is also a park where you can enjoy leisurely walks amidst the pleasant breeze coming from the Persian Gulf, creating a delightful experience during your visit to Bandar Kong.
Anthropology Museum
In a bid to preserve the tradition of seafaring, prominent figures from Bandar Kong decided to gather tools, equipment, and navigational maps for public display. This museum is housed in a building characterized by windcatchers and architectural elements typical of Bandar Kong. Among its valuable artifacts are various ancient vessels. One room in the museum is specially decorated to symbolize a “wedding chamber,” reflecting the marriage customs of the local people that have been cherished since ancient times. A visit to this museum will provide you with a deeper understanding of the culture and heritage of the people of Bandar Kong.
Galbatan House
The architecture of the houses in Bandar Kong is distinctive and unique, with the “Galbatan House” standing out as one of the most important examples of this architectural style. This house is regarded as one of the most significant cultural symbols and architectural works in Bandar Kong. From ancient times, the construction of historic houses in Bandar Kong was designed to exemplify hospitality, inviting guests into the home through every element of its design.
Like many other Iranian houses, Galbatan House features a central courtyard surrounded by rooms serving various purposes. The historic Galbatan House is the largest historic residence in Bandar Kong and effectively represents the lifestyle of an aristocratic family. With its beautiful plasterwork and unique designs, it is one of the major attractions of Bandar Kong, despite its simple entrance and facade. Furthermore, Galbatan House boasts the highest number of windcatchers among the houses in Bandar Kong, with five, which is significant in its own right.