Tranquil beauty of Mal Agha village in Khuzestan Province
Mal Agha, or Malaga, is a picturesque village nestled approximately 20 kilometers from Qaleh Tal City, 32 kilometers northeast of Baghmalek, and about 170 kilometers from Ahvaz, in the eastern region of Khuzestan Province.
Covering an area of 100 hectares, Mal Agha village is home to roughly 45 households. Situated at an elevation of around 1,000 meters above sea level, the village is perched on the slopes of the Zagros Mountains, offering stunning vistas and a cool climate. Access to the village is convenient via an asphalted road, which winds through scenic landscapes of oak forests, rice paddies, and wheat fields.
The Dez River flows through a nearby valley, providing irrigation for the region’s lush gardens of pomegranates, grapes, plane trees, wild pistachios, hawthorns, and surrounding oak forests. During spring, the village hosts a lively market where visitors can enjoy fresh pomegranates, honey, pomegranate paste, and various dairy products. To accommodate tourists, 18 cabins with a capacity for 300 visitors have been developed, offering a peaceful retreat in this natural setting.
One of the area’s notable natural attractions is Tang-e Tehi, a spectacular five-kilometer-long canyon situated three kilometers east of Mal Agha, beyond Do Ab, where two rivers converge. The canyon features several springs and waterfalls, culminating in a stunning five-meter-high waterfall at the foot of the 3,600-meter-high Mangasht Mountain. This site is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rich in history, Mal Agha contains archaeological sites such as stone inscriptions on large rocks and square stone tombs. These rock tombs, called “Bard-e Gouri” in Khuzestan Province, measure about 1.5 meters in width and 1.7 meters in height, serving as ancient graves that offer insight into the region’s historical heritage.
Baghmalek
Located nearby, Baghmalek is a significant city in Khuzestan Province, renowned for its combination of natural beauty and industrial development. Surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, Baghmalek is often regarded as a gateway for travelers exploring the scenic landscapes of the Zagros region. The city boasts several parks, cultural sites, and local markets that showcase the rich traditions of the area.
Economically, Baghmalek is notable for its agriculture, particularly date palms and citrus fruits, and for its proximity to oil and gas industries that contribute to the region’s economy. The city also acts as a hub for transportation and commerce, connecting rural villages like Mal Agha with larger urban centers. Visitors often use Baghmalek as a starting point for excursions into the stunning natural landscapes of the Zagros Mountains and nearby natural reserves.
With its blend of natural, historical, and industrial attractions, Baghmalek continues to grow as a vital part of Khuzestan’s cultural and economic landscape, drawing both tourists and investors interested in exploring the diverse offerings of this vibrant region.