Behshahr; jewel of eastern Mazandaran Province
Behshahr, located in the eastern part of Mazandaran Province, owes its charm and allure to its exceptional natural landscapes. The city boasts an impressive array of natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, beaches, lush forests, and protected areas, making it a prime destination for domestic and international tourists alike. In addition to its natural wonders, Behshahr is home to several significant historical landmarks, such as Safi Abad Palace, Cheshmeh Emarat Garden, and the Shahriari House, each reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Safi Abad Palace
Upon entering Behshahr, Safi Abad Palace immediately captures the attention of visitors and stands out as one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Perched majestically atop a hill, the palace offers sweeping panoramic views of the city below, creating a breathtaking vantage point. This magnificent structure dates back to the glorious Safavid era and is officially listed among Iran’s national heritage sites. While public access is currently restricted due to its location within a military zone, visitors can still admire the palace’s grandeur from a distance, taking in its architectural splendor and historical significance.
Abbas Abad Garden
Abbas Abad Garden is a renowned historical and natural attraction situated on the outskirts of Behshahr, accessible via a scenic forest road. Approximately thirty minutes from the city center, the garden was commissioned by Shah Abbas I and stands as a testament to Persian landscape design. At the heart of this serene complex lies a picturesque lake, ideal for leisurely boating. Visitors can also explore a variety of amenities, including souvenir and handicraft shops, a restaurant, a children’s playground, and restroom facilities, making the garden a complete recreational and cultural destination for families and tourists.
Sefid Chah Cemetery
Sefid Chah Cemetery, also known as the “Sefid (White) Cemetery,” holds the distinction of being Iran’s first Muslim cemetery, with a history spanning over 1,200 years. Richly adorned with intricate carvings and symbolic motifs, this cemetery transforms a traditional burial site into a remarkable historical and artistic treasure. Numerous vertical tombstones with unique and varied designs make it a compelling site to explore. According to local beliefs, the cemetery’s lime-rich soil slows the decomposition process, preserving the remains longer than typical soils, further enhancing its historical mystique and cultural significance.
Mellat Park
Mellat Park offers the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walking paths, ancient trees, and verdant green spaces while also encountering a historic building from the Safavid period. This building, which now serves as Behshahr’s Municipality, is registered among Iran’s national heritage sites, allowing guests to combine the pleasures of nature with a glimpse of the city’s architectural past.
Cheshmeh Emarat Garden
Cheshmeh Emarat Garden, located just ten minutes from central Behshahr, is named after a natural spring that emerges from the ground on the garden’s ground floor. What sets this historical site apart is not merely its aesthetic charm or antiquity but its ingenious water system. The garden once transported spring water through channels to a small canal without the use of pumps, showcasing remarkable engineering for its time. Cheshmeh Emarat Garden is officially listed among Iran’s national heritage sites, reflecting both its cultural and technical significance.
Yaghout-e Sorkh Recreational Complex
Situated near Bandar Amirabad, the Yaghout-e Sorkh Recreational Complex is a popular destination for leisure and family activities. The complex features a designated swimming area marked with safety nets, lifeguards, recreational boats, inflatable castles, and play areas for children. Additional amenities include shops, pavilions, dense shaded trees, and ample parking. On busy days, visitors frequently take advantage of the natural shade provided by the trees if the pavilions are fully occupied, making it a versatile and family-friendly spot for outdoor enjoyment.
Sang-e No Waterfall
Sang-e No Waterfall, located in southern Behshahr deep within the forest, remains relatively undiscovered despite its striking beauty and favorable climate. Visitors can park at a nearby lot and follow a forest trail to reach the waterfall. The trail requires crossing a riverbed covered with large and small rocks, making proper footwear essential due to the potential for slippery surfaces. The journey provides an adventurous and scenic experience for nature enthusiasts, offering both the tranquility of the forest and the visual splendor of cascading waters.