Oghabkooh: Iran’s Breathtaking Wonder in Yazd

Yazd sits at the junction of Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut, a region of ancient deserts, sand dunes, desert pavements, valleys, caves, Kooh Rigs, Kalouts, and many other captivating attractions in the heart of the Iranian plateau. Among these wonders, one feature instantly captures the attention of visitors: a mountain whose stony form resembles a sitting eagle.

Oghabkooh—literally “Eagle Mountain” (Oghab meaning eagle, Kooh meaning mountain)—is a relic of Iran’s second geological age, dating back 200 million years. Its iconic eagle shape, however, was sculpted over time by an igneous rock mass on Shirkooh’s northern hillside, shaped further by persistent winds, especially from the Badasaman Mountains to the north.

Registered as part of Iran’s National Heritage in 2017 (1396 SH), Oghabkooh is located near Farashah village, known as Eslamieh. Nestled on Shirkooh’s northern slopes, close to the mountain itself, Eslamieh lies 10 kilometers from Taft and 30 kilometers from Yazd. The village’s residents primarily engage in agriculture, gardening, and livestock, offering a glimpse of traditional life amidst this dramatic desert landscape.

Although Oghabkooh rises 2,018 meters above sea level, its main rock formation reaches about 140 meters in height. This stunning rock, crafted from lime and garnet stone, originated deep within the Earth.

Over time, rainfall and water seeping into the mountain’s lime structure created a series of holes that now serve as shelters for various wildlife species. At the same time, the lime-rich terrain prevents the growth of vegetation, giving the mountain a raw, dramatic appearance.

The northwest slope of Oghabkooh is gentle, and its position at the heart of a plain and desert made it a significant site for historical rituals. Nearby, remnants of cultural heritage such as the Temple of Moobedan-e Firouz and the Chil-e Eslamieh watchtower stand as testaments to the area’s rich past.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to explore: Tamehr Spring, just 13 kilometers east, and Elamieh Cave, 30 kilometers away, are nearby attractions. Waterfalls at Dargahan and Loso, the snowy Tarzjan House, and picturesque villages like Sanij, Nir, Bidakhoid, Sakhoid, and Zardin offer charming landscapes, gardens, and palm fields. Other notable sites include Badamestan Cave, Eslamieh Fort, Kaht Door, the Eslamieh Watermill, Pir-e Chak Chak, and the 1,500-year-old plane tree at Qadamgah Mosque.

Oghabkooh blends geological wonder, wildlife habitats, and centuries of cultural history, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and heritage.