Saed News: We’re taking a journey to the pristine and breathtaking nature of Sistan and Balochistan. Did I say *breathtaking*? Without a doubt, I haven’t found a more fitting word to describe the unique and extraordinary beauty of this region than breathtaking
Saed News: We’re embarking on a journey through the untouched and breathtaking nature of Sistan and Baluchestan. Did I say breathtaking? Without a doubt, I haven’t found a more fitting word to describe the unique beauty of this region than "breathtaking."
According to Saed News Tourism Service, the attractions of Sistan and Baluchestan are not few for tourists and visitors of the region. This province, strikingly beautiful and rich in scenic, untouched areas, captivates every viewer with its charm. When we think of Iran’s most popular and visited cities, Sistan and Baluchestan typically don’t make the list. A deprived province, it nonetheless holds an abundance of cultural and natural wonders that enchant every eye and heart. A trip to Sistan and Baluchestan is a truly unique experience—one that’s unforgettable for any traveler.
There are so many sights and wonders in this region that while exploring it, you forget its deprivation and become immersed in its marvels. There’s the Burnt City (Shahr-e Sukhteh), believed to be the world’s oldest city, Rostam Castle in Zabol, and Jalalabad Citadel, each with their own fascinating and thrilling stories, all surprising enough to leave you speechless. The region also offers untouched nature that will delight any nature lover. You may not expect it, but you’ll never be bored here. There are the Miniature Mountains of Chabahar, the Makran Coast, Lipar Lagoon, Gwatar Bay, and many more natural wonders.
You can’t explore Sistan and Baluchestan in just one or two days. If you're a fan of history and ancient cultures, this place will keep you busy for days. The Burnt City lies 50 km from Zabol and 170 km from Zahedan and is also known as the City of Science or City of Art due to the discovery of numerous scientific and artistic artifacts. Interestingly, no weapons or war tools have been found here, suggesting the peaceful nature of its people.
Estimated to be 5,000 years old, this city was once green and full of life despite its current barren look. It spans 280 hectares and was home to warm, kind-hearted people for about 1,400 years, forming a great civilization. It’s called the Burnt City due to the abundant burn marks and a layer of ash covering the ruins. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, with various theories proposed.
Among the historical sites of the region is the renowned Bampur Castle, steeped in captivating legends. Located 1 km north of Bampur and 24 km from Iranshahr, locals believe it belonged to Bahman, son of Esfandiar—hence originally called Bahmanpur, later morphing into Bampur. "Pur" means "son" in Persian, supporting this tale. Though some believe it was built during the Sassanid or Parthian eras, others attribute its construction to Nader Shah Afshar.
In Zabol lies the ancient region of Hozdar, rich in the remnants of past civilizations. One of its historical treasures is the windmills of Hozdar, over 2,800 years old, located near the Burnt City. These windmills were used to harness the wind and manage water for farming, reflecting the community’s organized lifestyle.
Location: Hozdar area, Zabol County, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
Beyond its ancient monuments, the province is blessed with extraordinary natural landscapes, many of which surprise first-time visitors. One such place is the scenic Shileh Forest, located in the Shileh or Hamun protected area. Covering about 2,565 hectares, the forest’s vegetation—due to its climate—includes tamarisk trees, saltwort, and esnakkebil. Notable wildlife includes Persian gazelles, wildcats, hares, jackals, and steppe eagles.
Location: 80 km from Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan Province
Also known as Poura Waterfall, this beautiful natural site is located in the village of Esfand in Iranshahr County. Surrounded by palm groves, the waterfall creates a magical and enchanting view that draws nature lovers. Remarkably, it remains full and vigorous despite water shortages and droughts in the region. Especially during Nowruz holidays, it attracts numerous tourists.
Location: 80 km south of Delgan, Esfand Village, Sistan and Baluchestan
One of the most extraordinary geotourism phenomena is the mud volcano, scientifically known as mud volvano, found only in a few parts of the world. These can appear as colored mud pots (white, yellow, pink) indicating iron content or as regular gray mud domes. Chabahar hosts three of them, 60 km west of the city—two dome-shaped, and one active volcanic-shaped vent. Locals call it Naf-e Darya or Bolobolo. When active, it makes gunshot-like sounds. The Tang Mud Volcano stands about 20 meters tall with a 12-meter-wide crater.
Did I say breathtaking? I meant it. The Makran Coast is one of the most significant natural attractions of the region. According to ancient historian Herodotus, this coast was once part of the Persian Empire. Starting east of Bandar Abbas and stretching to southwestern Pakistan, it includes Iran’s only oceanic port: Chabahar—a place of major strategic importance. Here you can witness giant international ships and a dramatic landscape where the desert meets the brilliant sea.
At sunrise, light spills over from behind the Zagros peaks. The Makran Coast features three beach types: coral, sandy, and rocky—each contributing to its dramatic beauty.
Chabahar, the southernmost port of the province and the only Iranian port on the Indian Ocean, features two stunningly unique coasts. One is lively and packed with joyful tourists enjoying waves up to 15 meters tall; the other is peaceful and quiet, home to local fishermen and visitors seeking solitude.
The Large Sea area has become a coastal park offering local cuisine and high waves that crash against rocks. The Small Sea, meanwhile, is calm and ideal for fishing. It’s not connected to the open ocean, making it a peaceful retreat for quiet reflection and beautiful views.
Hamun Lagoon is one of the most vital attractions of the region and a key national ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the local economy and agriculture. It’s the third largest wetland in Iran and the seventh in the world. Half lies in Kerman Province and the other half in Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan. Comprising several lakes, its water levels vary by season.
Once full of water and life, mismanagement and drought have led to its decline. Mentioned in the Shahnameh as Lake Zarah, much of it is now desert, with many plant and animal species lost.
Sistan and Baluchestan is full of surprises, and this article only scratched the surface. You’ll encounter the bubbling mud volcanoes, the rare Lipar Lagoon nestled near the Oman Sea, and the 2,500-year-old village of Tis, home to eerie tombs locals call the Genie Cemetery. All of which confirm that the wonders of Sistan and Baluchestan are truly endless.
