Makhregeh Lake is one of the attractions of Kerman, located 32 kilometers south of Babak city. The reflection of the sky in this salt lake creates a stunning scene and forms the largest natural mirror in Iran. Join us to learn more about this magical lake.
Makhregeh Salt Lake, located near Babak City, is one of the most important natural features of the region. Sometimes referred to as the "Rusty Well," Makhregeh Lake covers an area of over 25 square kilometers, with a length of 7 kilometers and a maximum width of 5.5 kilometers. The lake's depth is around 30 centimeters at its deepest points. The lake is fed by seasonal streams and rivers that flow during rainfall, originating from the mountains of Chah-Pozeh, Chah-Ma'adan, Cheshmeh-Anjir, Chah-Gaz, Chah-Khoshk, Pir-Gouchan, Haft-Koh, and the local hillocks. One of the primary water sources for Makhregeh is the seasonal and sweet water river of Habibollah Khani. During the dry season, if the riverbed is dug up, fresh water can be found at a depth of 40 centimeters, which is one of its many marvels. Despite the fact that the incoming water is fresh, the continuous evaporation and the salt bed of the lake causes the water to become saline. The lake is bounded to the northwest by the Three Wells Plain and the White Sands, and it extends out of the region towards the Marvast Desert. To the southeast, it connects with the Sirdjan Salt Desert.
To reach Makhregeh Lake, you have two routes. You can take the Estabraq or Sarab roads to the south of Babak City. After passing the Ghod Ghola Ali brick factory, you will reach Mr. Reza Islami’s wells in the Makhregeh pasture after traveling 18 kilometers. The alternative, longer route is via the Shahr Babak-Sirjan highway. At kilometer 35, turn onto a secondary road marked with a sign for the Guchan Stone Mine. Continue southwest until you reach your destination, with about 20 kilometers of this route being unpaved.
One of the interesting aspects of Makhregeh Lake is that with just 10 millimeters of rainfall, it creates a stunning and beautiful reflection of the sky and surrounding environment. In this regard, it can be compared to the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, known as the largest mirror on Earth. The clarity of the water and the type of lakebed soil make this natural ecosystem resemble a giant mirror in the flat desert. When you stand in the lakebed, you will witness a unique view of the surroundings' reflection in the lake's water. The flatness of the lake is the main reason for its mirror-like appearance; thus, it is important to walk carefully on it and prevent vehicles from entering. Additionally, any potential permits for salt extraction or digging would ruin the lake’s scenic beauty. Therefore, authorities must take the necessary steps to protect Makhregeh Lake by ensuring its national registration and prohibiting permits for salt exploitation.
Several natural caves overlook Makhregeh Lake, and in the vicinity, the ruins of an old castle can be found, though no studies have been conducted regarding its age or reasons for parts of its destruction. Other nearby attractions include the Pista Cave and the Brim Cave.
Makhregeh Lake is a seasonal ecosystem that fills with water with the first rains of the region in November. When the rainfall is normal, the lake’s water remains until late August, after which it turns into a vast salt flat. Therefore, considering the climate and the lake's water levels, the best time to visit is mid-spring.
