Saed News: Due to its geographical location, Iran is full of unique tourist attractions throughout the country that may not be found anywhere else in the world. However, this vast number of attractions often remains overlooked by Nowruz travelers, whose constant destination is only the northern part of the country.
According to Saed News, as reported by Fararo, Nowruz holidays are mostly remembered for the exhausting and lengthy trips to the northern provinces of Iran, a tradition that repeats every year.
The coronavirus pandemic, which led to the suspension of travel, especially during Nowruz holidays, saved the northern roads from long traffic jams, overcrowded cities, villages, and tourist destinations in the heart of nature for two years.
However, with the reopening of travel for Nowruz and the return to the usual tradition of the past years, the northern provinces continue to be the primary destination for travelers, mostly from Tehran.
Traveling to the northern cities has resulted in neglecting other tourist attractions in Iran, especially during Nowruz holidays. It seems that Iran, except for the northern provinces, has no other leisure or tourist attractions.
This is while Iran, due to its geographical location, is full of unique tourist attractions throughout the country that may not be found anywhere else in the world. However, these vast attractions are often overlooked by Nowruz travelers, with their constant destination being only the northern part of the country.
In recent days, the Chalous road has faced a significant challenge with landslides, leading to the closure of roads between Tehran and Mazandaran. This could lead to an influx of travelers toward the Qazvin-Rasht road, but the northern destinations will still be the first choice for Nowruz trips. In these circumstances, the only outcome for travelers will be much longer traffic jams, a shortage of accommodations, fatigue, and increased costs.
In this travel scenario, which should be a chance for relaxation after two years of quarantine, it turns into overcrowding and traffic, leading to a more intense rush than before.
On the other hand, the closure of roads between Tehran and Mazandaran might provide an opportunity to explore other tourist destinations in Iran, which may, in the future, shift the traditional preference for northern regions as the primary Nowruz destination, leading to scattered trips to all parts of the country.
In recent years, southern provinces (Khuzestan, Bushehr, and especially Hormozgan and Sistan and Baluchestan) have gained significant attention, with Nowruz being an ideal time to visit these areas.
However, travel to other provinces during Nowruz is still neglected, and their attractions remain unknown. There are regions in the country where Nowruz, with its long holidays, is the best time to travel.
Ilam; The Most Unknown Tourist Destination in Iran
What has mistakenly been formed in people's minds about Ilam is that it is a cold region, with the best time to visit during the warmer seasons. This perception has caused travelers to overlook this area during Nowruz holidays.
In fact, Ilam, especially its western part, is not a suitable destination for tourists after May due to the rising temperatures. Therefore, the best time to visit this province is in the months of Esfand and Farvardin (March and April), when one can enjoy its beauty at its best.
This province is part of the earliest civilizations in world history. Therefore, the oldest historical and archaeological sites such as the Shirin and Farhad Arch, Gol-Gol Bas-Relief, the ancient city of Madaktu, Ghaumishan Bridge, and more can be found in Ilam.
In addition to historical and archaeological sites, the pristine nature of this province is one of Iran's best tourist attractions, unique in its own right.
Ilam, with its mountains, rivers, waterfalls, protected mountain regions, caves, and vast fertile plains, is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Some of the attractions include Chaman Ghir Mountain in Kabir Kuh, the Konatarike Cave near the village of Pakal, Zaleh Zard Hunting Zone, Gachan Waterfall, Mishkhas Village, Jaafarabad Village, Simre, and Razianeh Gorge. Travel costs to this province, being close to the Iraq border, are relatively cheaper compared to large tourist cities and northern provinces.
Nowruz Celebrations of the Kurds
Kermanshah and Kurdistan, symbols of the history, culture, and art of Iran, are among Iran's year-round tourist destinations. However, Nowruz can be considered one of the best times to visit these beautiful provinces.
Due to the unique customs and culture of Nowruz among the Kurds, their Nowruz celebrations have even gained global fame. During these celebrations, people gather in various regions wearing traditional costumes, accompanied by Kurdish music.
This celebration is especially grand in rural areas, particularly in the Hawraman region. The traditional and ancient Baba Yadgar ceremony in the western province is also widely known and accompanied by the playing of the ancient Iranian tambour.
Thus, witnessing the nature and unique historical monuments of Kermanshah and Kurdistan, especially Hawraman, along with their Nowruz celebrations, could be one of the best Nowruz trips.
Additionally, the local cuisine of this region, now globally recognized, is another important attraction in Kermanshah. You should not miss dishes such as kebab ribs, khoresh kholal, kalaneh, Ash Abbasali, Bazi sweets, and rice bread, along with the meatball served on the 13th of Farvardin. Travel costs to these provinces are cheaper than other tourist-friendly provinces, making it an affordable trip for travelers.
Desert Regions
Desert tourism is one of the most attractive and beautiful types of travel, possible only during certain seasons, as traveling to deserts is not feasible year-round. Desert tours start in November and continue until late Farvardin (April).
After that, due to intense heat, desert trips are no longer possible. Therefore, Nowruz holidays are an ideal time for desert travel, as the desert climate is still mild and pleasant, allowing travelers ample time for exploring deserts, cities, and surrounding villages.
Central Iran is full of deserts that offer opportunities for travelers from all over Iran. Deserts such as Mesr, Varzaneh, Matinabad, Maranjab, and Abuzidabad in Isfahan, Karakal and Rig Zarrin in Yazd, Shahdad and Riggan deserts in Kerman, Rig Jen Desert in Semnan, and Helwan and Zardgah in South Khorasan are some of Iran's most beautiful deserts, often the focus of travel in colder seasons, but overlooked during Nowruz.
Travel to Isfahan and Yazd is mistakenly limited to the central cities of these provinces. Many travelers only know these two destinations and overlook other historical, cultural, and natural attractions.
Meanwhile, towns such as Aran and Bidgol, Natanz, Jandagh, Na'in, Khor and Khansar in Isfahan are overshadowed by Isfahan city itself. Their tourist attractions, such as Golestan Kuh in Khansar, the village of Garmeh in Na'in, the village of Abyaneh in Natanz, the underground city of Nushabad in Aran and Bidgol, and many untouched waterfalls and recreational areas, are not given the attention they deserve.
The nature of Yazd also has a special ambiance during spring and Nowruz. The green trees, gentle winds, and the joyful sounds of birds among trees and gardens revive the province from its winter dormancy.
Ardakan, Aqda, Kharanq village, Taft, Meybod, and Bafq are important cities in Yazd, with their rural areas offering excellent opportunities for Nowruz trips. Therefore, visiting Yazd should be seen beyond the city of Yazd, and Nowruz is the perfect time to explore this.
South Khorasan, with its unique Kalajini valley, the beautiful city of Tabas, and its unparalleled Ferdows, can also be an important Nowruz travel destination.
Nowruz Travel Tips
Although travel is an opportunity for people to rejuvenate their bodies and souls, and everyone seeks relaxation during holidays, both tourism service providers and travelers must adhere to certain regulations that protect the environment and support the continued activity of local service providers.
Thus, travelers are required to follow eight key guidelines during their travels:
Many travelers may not know that early Farvardin marks the breeding season for wildlife. Therefore, entering nature must be done carefully to minimize stress and disturbance to wildlife, especially in nature excursions that involve hiking and camping.
If you encounter wildlife cubs along the way, do not approach them, whether they are bear cubs or of other species. This could harm the cubs and lead to rejection by their mothers or provoke aggressive behavior from the mothers trying to protect their young.
If you light a fire, make sure it is completely extinguished. Small negligence can cause large-scale forest fires.
Always try local foods when traveling to villages or towns. While the flavors may be unfamiliar, trying local dishes is an important part of the travel experience.
Always ask for permission before photographing local people, especially women and girls, to avoid any unpleasant incidents that may sour your trip.
Before visiting a new region, try to learn about its local culture and customs to avoid misunderstandings.
Avoid littering in nature, as there are no waste collectors in rural areas or natural environments.
When buying supplies in towns and villages, make sure to support local businesses, which helps the local economy and encourages further tourism.
If you encounter injured wildlife, call the environmental hotline (1540) immediately to get help for their treatment.
While in nature, avoid singing loudly or playing music at high volumes, as it can cause stress and insecurity for wildlife.
