SAEDNEWS: Here are the images shared by Mina Mokhtari from her trip to Qeshm, along with an introduction to 12 tourist attractions that make Qeshm a unique and popular destination among travelers.
According to SAEDNEWS, wherever you travel in Iran, you'll encounter a wealth of historical and natural landmarks that will make you want to return. However, some of the most pristine and unique tourist destinations are found in the southern part of the country. Among them, Qeshm, located in the heart of the Persian Gulf, stands out as one of the best choices for travel in this region. This stunning destination is filled with natural wonders and unique attractions, earning it the title "Land of the Seven Wonders."
Mina Mokhtari, the wife of Bahram Radan in Qeshm
In this stunning destination, nature has showcased its boundless beauty with exceptional flair. From the towering ancient mountains with their unique formations to the lush forests, mysterious caves, and valleys that captivate with their intriguing appearances, everything here reflects the rich diversity of natural wonders in this southern region of our country. In short, wherever you look in this charming southern area, the natural marvels and untouched historical attractions will leave you in awe.
Qeshm Geopark
Every corner of Qeshm Island is filled with incredible natural wonders, making it a highly valuable environmental region. This is why the island is one of the ideal destinations for eco-tourism, with travelers eager to explore nature often including a visit to Qeshm Geopark as part of their itinerary. Recognized as the first geopark in the Middle East by UNESCO, Qeshm Geopark covers an area of approximately 300 square kilometers in the western part of the island. Over the course of a decade, additional areas of the island were included within the geopark's boundaries. The park is home to natural phenomena such as the Valley of Statues, Chahkooh Gorge, Qeshm's rooftop, the Stars Valley, and the Hara forests.
Mina Mokhtari in Qeshm Geopark
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Western part of Qeshm Island
Stars Valley
Among the fascinating and unique places on Qeshm Island is Stars Valley, a natural wonder with towering walls resembling giant, mysterious statues. The valley’s appeal lies in the local legends surrounding it. According to one such tale, the valley was formed when a star fell from the sky and created the valley beneath. Some locals even believe that spirits and ghosts inhabit the valley, earning it the nickname "Valley of Spirits." The unusual formations of the valley and the eerie silence of the place are likely the true inspirations behind these local myths. Scientifically, however, the valley's formations are the result of natural processes like earthquakes and strong winds over millions of years. The valley is also nearly two million years old, which adds to its allure.
Visiting Hours: Daily, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Northwest of Barke Khalaf Village
Hara Forests
The Hara Forests of Qeshm Island are one of the best examples of this captivating natural phenomenon, and a visit here is highly recommended. Spanning over 82,000 hectares, the Hara Forests are protected environmental areas. The ancient trees in this forest have long branches that grow over their tops, giving them a distinctive appearance. These trees can absorb salty water and convert it into fresh water, which helps them thrive in the island’s unique climate. The Hara forests are also an essential habitat for marine life in the Persian Gulf, attracting various birds and fish, which further enhances the forest's picturesque landscape.
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Between Qeshm Island and Bandar Khamir
Kaseh Selakh Village
Located in the Shahab section of Qeshm Island, Kaseh Selakh Village is a charming rural area with just 42 households, making it one of the most pristine and least altered natural spots. While the vegetation here isn't particularly diverse, there are other natural attractions that make the village worth visiting. Among these is the Kaseh Selakh Spring, known for its sulfur-rich mineral properties. Additionally, the unique mountains in the area, with their distinct shapes, offer a one-of-a-kind photographic opportunity for nature enthusiasts.
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Kaseh Selakh Village
Hengam Island
Qeshm is a small, captivating island in the Persian Gulf that will amaze you with its simplicity. The island, with its traditional and native charm, boasts unparalleled beaches, playful dolphins, beautiful wildlife, the endless sea, palm groves, limestone mountains, and a lively market—attractions that draw many nature lovers to this area.
Khorbes Cave
Khorbes Cave is one of the most remarkable natural wonders in Qeshm, with several excavations made in the cliffs of the Khorbes mountains. These caves feature unparalleled rock architecture, dating back to the Median era. Some believe that these caves were once used for worship, while others think they were shelters for the people living in the area. Regardless of the original purpose, the caves remain a significant archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the past.
Visiting Hours: Daily, from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Address: Hormozgan Province, 12 km South of Qeshm
Salt Dome and Namakdan Cave
One of Qeshm's distinctive natural attractions is Namakdan Cave, recognized as the longest salt cave in the world. Discovered in 1998 by a team of Iranian explorers and foreign experts, the cave is located inside the Qeshm Salt Dome. The cave has a 20-meter opening and features three separate tunnels. The first tunnel is easily accessible to all visitors, while the second requires crawling, and the third is more challenging, recommended only for experienced cavers with proper equipment. The cave’s salt formations and mineral-rich crystals not only create a stunning visual effect but also offer therapeutic benefits.
Visiting Hours: Daily, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, 90 km from Qeshm City
Temple Trees
The Temple Tree, also known as the "Lor Tree," is a unique species native to tropical areas like southern Iran. The tree is found in limited regions, including Qeshm Island, where it has stood for nearly 600 years. Its distinct branches make it a fascinating sight for visitors, and it is an important part of Qeshm's natural landscape.
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm, Tam Siniti Area
Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours
Historical Cemeteries of Qeshm
While Qeshm is known for its natural beauty, it is also home to significant historical sites, including ancient cemeteries that date back thousands of years. Among the oldest is the Seyed Mozaffar Cemetery, once a large burial site now reduced to smaller sections. Other ancient cemeteries include the Goor Feringhi, Toriān, and Tam Siniti Cemeteries, which highlight Qeshm's long historical and cultural heritage.
Valley of Statues
Among the many captivating valleys on Qeshm Island, the Valley of Statues is particularly stunning. With rock formations that resemble statues, the valley offers a mesmerizing visual spectacle. These formations are the result of millions of years of natural erosion, which sculpted the rocks into their current, statue-like shapes. Located near the Hara Forests, this valley provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy both natural and historical attractions.
Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Southeast of Qeshm
Naz Islands
Located in the southeastern part of Qeshm Island, the Naz Islands are a pair of small islands that are part of the Qeshm Geopark. These islands are unique because half of them are submerged, while the other half is above the water, creating a natural phenomenon. When the tide recedes, a narrow path appears between the two islands, allowing visitors to cross. This phenomenon attracts many tourists who also enjoy activities such as fishing, camel riding, and beach walking. The islands' stunning beaches and clear waters also make them ideal for photography.
Address: Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Southeast of Qeshm
Ecolodges
Qeshm Island is also known for its eco-lodges, which are traditional, restored homes that offer tourists a unique and immersive experience. These accommodations are perfect for those looking to connect with local culture and nature. With its beautiful landscapes, sandy beaches, markets, and diverse foods, Qeshm continues to attract more visitors each year.
