Formation, features of Chahkuh Gorge in Qeshm
Chahkuh Gorge is located in the northwest of Qeshm Island, near the village of Chahu Sharghi. This geosite is a prominent and unique example of running water erosion, which has formed a characteristic canyon valley. The primary factor shaping this gorge is the rapid and powerful water current resulting from rare, torrential rains. Water erosion, particularly along a major fracture, also plays a significant role in its formation.
The area surrounding the gorge is part of the Salakh anticline ridge, where the salt dome is exposed. An anticline is a dome-like fold with a convex-up structure formed by internal and lateral earth pressures. These pressures cause joints, fractures, and faults to form at the edges of the anticline. In Chahkuh Gorge, these weaknesses are significantly affected by erosive processes, leading to the gradual development of the gorge, persiaplanet.com wrote.
The vertical section of the main gorge features another gorge with a prominent linear crevice observable along the fracture. A key characteristic of Chahkuh Gorge’s geological formation is its water impermeability, causing water to flow through and fill fissures and cracks, which gradually erode them. Generally, anticlines and their surrounding areas are turbulent and unstable, leading to further formation of faults and cracks.
Due to the mechanical action of water, various erosive shapes — such as linear, elliptical, and spherical concave forms — have developed in the gorge’s walls. Additionally, the movement and rotation of rock fragments within the flowing water have created holes, bowl-like shapes, potholes, and other erosive features. Locals have capitalized on this opportunity by digging holes at the bottom of the gorge to collect and store rainwater, which has proven valuable during periods of drought.
Tectonic structures
A notable feature within Chahkuh Gorge is the presence of east-west faults, formed perpendicular to the main valley. These parallel faults possess nearly vertical fault mirrors with left-slip surfaces and a normal component. Tafoni, a form of dissolution erosion, occurs in the sandstone layers; here, winds carrying saltwater droplets lead to evaporation and crystallization of salt, separating the sandstone into sheets and grains. The flat surfaces of the ridges and arches indicate that they have also been shaped by various erosive processes, including rapid water and wind erosion.
Qeshm Island is a dry area with low annual rainfall. The presence of traditional wells on the island has been crucial for maximizing the utilization of this limited rainfall. These wells were actively used until a few years ago, prior to the construction of the desalination plant on Qeshm Island.
Chahkuh Geroge is quite long, but only a short section is accessible to ordinary visitors. The remainder of the gorge can only be explored by adventurous individuals equipped with the proper gear, due to challenging access roads and water conditions.
Visitors can explore Chahkuh Strait during all seasons; however, it is advisable to avoid the gorge during rain or high water flow, as the presence of several wells along the strait can create additional risks.
Given the remoteness of Chahkuh from Qeshm, various amenities have been established in the surrounding area, including in Chahkuh village. Nearby attractions include Statue Valley, the Mangrove Forests, and Cheshmeh Strait.
Currently, there are numerous signs available to assist visitors in navigating the area effectively.