SAEDNEWS: Shazdeh Mahan Garden is one of the must-see attractions in Kerman and Mahan, listed as a national heritage site of Iran and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
According to Saed News Tourism Service, one of the cities not far from Kerman but full of charm is Mahan. In addition to the famous Shazdeh Garden, which is registered with UNESCO, this city enjoys a pleasant climate.
Shazdeh Garden is like a green jewel in the heart of the desert, dating back to the Qajar era. The garden was built by order of Mohammad Hasan Khan along the middle of the Bam-Kerman road, which was once part of the Silk Road, a factor that contributed to Mahan’s prosperity in the past. Upon entering the garden, it’s easy to forget that it sits amid the heat and arid lands of Kerman. Towering trees, water-filled pools with lively fountains, and streams that stretch to the end of the garden create a serene oasis.
Though lush greenery and irrigation in the middle of the desert may seem impossible, Shazdeh Garden is nourished by qanat water and rivers supplied by the surrounding Chopar Mountains. The garden’s sloped design allows the sound of water to resonate throughout the area before flowing into a channel that extends to a nearby village, supporting local agriculture. Covering 705 hectares, the garden transforms the desert into a green carpet, separated from the outside world by tall walls.
The garden is named after Prince Abdulhamid Mirza Naser al-Doleh Farmanfarma, the grandson of Naser al-Din Shah and governor of Kerman, who completed much of its construction. A curious story recounts that when the architect learned of the prince’s death, he struck his plaster tool against the wall in joy and abandoned his work. Observant visitors will notice some parts of the garden remain unfinished, such as missing tiles at the entrance gate.
The garden is divided into several areas, each offering a unique experience:
Entrance Hall
Located at the garden’s entrance, this section transitions visitors from the dry exterior to the lush interior.
Upper Hall (Balakhaneh)
At the end of the garden stands a two-story mansion, known as the Shahneshin building. Historically, this was the garden owner’s main residence. Visitors seeking a memorable view of Shazdeh Garden are encouraged to climb to the second floor via the staircase inside.
Private Garden (Bagh Khalvat)
Behind the upper hall lies a more secluded garden space with fruit trees, shaded walkways, and paths parallel to the main building, offering a serene escape reminiscent of a piece of paradise.
Bathhouse
The bathhouse consists of several interconnected rooms of varying sizes located along the garden’s perimeter wall.
Zaeem Bashi House and Watchtower
Above the bathhouse, this section served as the main guard’s residence. Watchtowers separate the house from the bathhouse, and a narrow elevated path connects the towers to the entrance hall.
Though officially registered with UNESCO in 2011, information about Shazdeh Garden has been translated into 35 languages to share its beauty globally. Damaged during the 1981 earthquake, the garden was restored and now includes a restaurant, hotel, and souvenir shops, enhancing the visitor experience.
Bricks and clay plaster were primarily used in the garden’s buildings. Decorative tiles embellish the entrance gate, while walls are coated with clay plaster, and sections near the upper hall and entrance feature plaster detailing. Cobblestones and mortar form the garden pathways, decorated with geometric patterns around the mansion and entrance. Bricks and stones line stairs, garden edges, and walkways.
How to Get There: Travel to Kerman Province and take the Kerman-Bam road. Shazdeh Garden is located 35 km from Kerman and 6 km from Mahan.
Address: 35 km from Kerman, 6 km from Mahan
Amenities:
Restaurant: Dine in the Shahneshin building or the open-air garden, with free Wi-Fi available.
Guesthouse: Overnight accommodation is available within the garden.
Horse Riding: Horseback riding around the garden is offered for enthusiasts.
Handicrafts: Some rooms in the mansion sell souvenirs, rugs, and carpets.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Holidays: National mourning days
Ticket Price: Domestic visitors: 2,000 IRR; International visitors: 15,000 IRR
Contact: +98 2103 3377
