International delegation explores Mazandaran’s tourism potential
CEOs of tourism companies from Russia and Turkmenistan, accompanied by a group of influencers from Kazakhstan, spent three days touring Mazandaran Province to explore its natural, historical, and recreational attractions, according to Mehdi Es’haqi, Deputy Head of Mazandaran Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization.
Es’haqi said the visit aimed to introduce Mazandaran’s diverse tourism potential to international industry leaders and assess opportunities for joint investment. He added that the tour was part of a familiarization (FAM) trip organized under the “Mazandaran: The Green Gateway to Iran” initiative, ISNA reported.
During their stay, the delegation visited several key destinations across the province, including Savadkuh, Babolsar, Behshahr, Amol, and Chamestan. They toured scenic northern railway routes, the Barenjestanak recreational complex, Mizban forest lodge, the shrine of Imamzadeh Ebrahim in Babolsar, the UNESCO-listed Abbasabad Garden in Behshahr, the Miankaleh International Wetland, and Elimalat Forest Park.
Es’haqi noted that the visit received positive feedback from local tourism stakeholders. He emphasized that the participation of representatives from Russia, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan signals a significant step toward fostering regional tourism cooperation and strengthening Mazandaran Province’s role in cultural and economic exchanges among the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
He highlighted that continued international initiatives of this nature will enhance Mazandaran’s global profile while showcasing its wealth of natural and historical attractions to a wider international audience.
Mazandaran Province attracts millions of domestic tourists annually from across Iran. Its stunning natural landscapes and cultural richness draw both domestic and international travelers, with thousands of foreign visitors exploring its diverse attractions each year.
While Mazandaran offers scenic beauty year-round, autumn reveals a particularly exceptional charm. The ancient Hyrcanian forests erupt in an array of vibrant colors, with towering trees creating a mesmerizing canopy that refreshes the senses.
Mazandaran is home to dense Hyrcanian woodlands, hundreds of kilometers of coastline, a pleasant climate, and more than 3,000 recorded cultural and historical sites, securing its position as one of Iran’s top tourism hubs.
The province holds 80 nationally registered cultural heritage sites, including historic architecture, traditional customs, and regional cultural practices. Nearly 40% of these registered sites consist of historic buildings. Additionally, Mazandaran hosts 15,000 religious endowments, 361 shrines, and over 8,000 religious structures, including mosques, tekiehs, and hosseiniehs.
The province’s forests are especially renowned for their autumn foliage. The colorful beech, hornbeam, and poplar trees cast luminous yellow and deep brown shades, amplifying the natural allure and drawing nature lovers from near and far.
In the Savadkuh region, towering and dense beech trees rise so high they appear to support the sky. Beneath them lies a natural carpet of golden and crimson leaves—an enchanting sight that peaks in autumn and offers a breathtaking landscape year-round.
Alimestan Forest, located 52 kilometers from Amol, is another natural treasure. With its pristine landscape, diverse wildlife, and valleys often shrouded in mist, it provides a surreal and peaceful escape. A trip through this dreamlike forest offers an unforgettable experience and lasting memories.
Abbasabad Lake, part of the Abbasabad Cultural and Recreational Complex in Behshahr, is also a seasonal highlight, especially in autumn when its surrounding trees turn brilliant shades. Other scenic autumn destinations across Mazandaran include Javaher Deh village, and the 2000 and 3000-meter peaks of Tonekabon.
Visitors can also enjoy Telar Forest Park, located about 15 kilometers from Qaemshahr. This tranquil woodland is an ideal setting for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Sisangan Forest Park in Nowshahr stands as one of Mazandaran’s most famous attractions, renowned for its stunning variety of tree species and spectacular display of autumn colors that captivate visitors year after year.