Natural beauty, healing powers of Dehloran hot springs
Dehloran hot springs consist of multiple springs and a mud pool, with water temperatures reaching around fifty degrees Celsius. They are among the prominent health tourism destinations in Ilam Province.
These natural hot springs are situated three kilometers from the city of Dehloran, in the foothills of Siah Kuh and close to Khofash (Bats) Cave. One of the most remarkable and unique characteristics of these springs is that, when sunlight reflects off the water, they create a rainbow-like color pattern. This extraordinary natural phenomenon has led Dehloran hot springs to be regarded as one of the rarest natural phenomena in Iran.
Because heated water can hold more dissolved solids than cold water, warm and especially hot springs tend to be rich in minerals, particularly sulfur. Every year, many visitors come to Dehloran to bathe in these springs, seeking relief from conditions such as articular pains, rheumatoid arthritis, various skin wounds, and muscular issues, and to benefit from the therapeutic properties of the mineral waters. However, due to the high sulfur content, patients with heart conditions are advised to avoid prolonged exposure or immersion in the waters.
Dehloran hot springs are classified as fossil springs, formed as a result of the geological activity associated with nearby oil and gas resources. The springs originate from two main mineral-rich streams, which converge underground to form a river of hot, mineral-laden water. The mineral composition of the waters also significantly affects the region’s vegetation and ecosystem.
Access to Dehloran hot springs is quite straightforward, with two main routes:
The primary route is via an asphalted road from Dehloran city, leading to the springs located to the west of the city. This route also provides access to Khofash (Bats) Cave, making it a convenient choice for visitors.
The secondary route is a dirt road, offering a more adventurous experience. Travelers on this route are often surprised by the sight of the Tar (Qir) Springs along the way. In these springs, instead of water, thick tar flows from the earth’s surface. This site is registered as a national heritage of Iran. The Tar Springs are another rare geological phenomenon in Ilam Province and are the only tar springs of their kind documented in Iran.
Overall, the Dehloran hot springs’ combination of natural beauty, unique geological features, and therapeutic benefits make it an extraordinary destination worth exploring.