Journey to Fordo Highland Village, Qom: a Paradise Beyond Borders / Iran’s First Internet and Nuclear Village (Photos)

According to Saed News Tourism Service, Fordow (Fardo) is a pleasant highland village located about 47 kilometers south of the city of Qom. Its name is derived from “Ferdows,” meaning “paradise,” reflecting the village’s scenic and peaceful nature.

Situated in the mountainous southeastern region of Kahak, Fordow sits at an elevation of approximately 2,070 meters above sea level. It has a mild mountain climate, with cool and pleasant weather in spring and summer, and cold, dry winters. A seasonal river flows to the east of the village, adding to its natural charm.

History and People

Fordow has a long historical background. The presence of religious sites such as the Imamzadeh Basureh (Bawareh) near the village and another Imamzadeh within the village itself reflects its historical significance. These religious monuments date back to the Safavid era.

The residents of Fordow speak Persian with a local dialect. They are Muslim and follow the Twelver Shia branch of Islam.

Economy and Agriculture

Most villagers earn their living through agriculture and livestock farming. Some are also involved in services and handicrafts. Beekeeping is common in the area.

Main agricultural products include wheat, barley, beans, and lentils. Farming land is both irrigated and rain-fed, with water supplied from rivers and traditional qanats.

Natural Attractions

Fordow is known for its unique natural landscape. Surrounding mountains, vast pastures, farmlands, and orchards create beautiful scenery.

• Springs located about one kilometer from the village irrigate farms and gardens.

• A large river flows 10–12 kilometers around the village, serving as a habitat for various birds and animals. Its banks are especially green and attractive in spring and summer, making it a popular recreational area.

Mount Barf Anbar and Caves

Mount Barf Anbar, the highest peak in Qom Province, is located about 12 kilometers from the village. In winter, it becomes completely covered with snow, creating a striking landscape for visitors.

The Salmestan Cave, located about 8.5 kilometers away, is another natural attraction that draws cave explorers and tourists.

Meadows, Wildlife, and Medicinal Plants

The region around Fordow includes wide green pastures such as Vessaf Farm and Valihal Meadow, which are especially beautiful in spring and summer.

Wild medicinal plants grow in abundance, including borage, licorice, hollyhock, fumitory, flixweed, and astragalus.

Wildlife in the area includes jackals, wolves, foxes, rabbits, partridges, and partridges.

Religious Sites and Cultural Heritage

The Imamzadeh of Fordow is a small, simple structure located on a hill within the village cemetery. It is believed to be the burial place of six individuals. Old gravestones dating back to the 11th century AH can be found in the cemetery, showing the long-standing historical importance of the site.

Another religious site, Imamzadeh Bawareh, is located 8 kilometers from the village.

Handicrafts, Food, and Souvenirs

Fordow is known for its traditional handicrafts, especially small-sized silk carpets with artistic and innovative designs. Local kilims and “zilo” woven textiles are also produced in various colors and patterns.

Traditional foods include Kalleh Joosh, Ash-e Jo, Eshkeneh, Fesenjan, Qorme, and Koofteh.

Popular souvenirs include local bread, dried dairy products (such as kashk), nuts, and garden products.

Access and Tourism

The village is accessible via paved roads from Qom and Kahak, and also via a dirt road from the Kashan–Ravagh route.

In spring and summer, visitors often stay overnight at the village Imamzadeh or Imamzadeh Bawareh.

Modern Recognition

Beyond its natural beauty, Fordow is also known for its large number of martyrs, earning it a reputation as one of the most martyr-producing villages in the country.

While it was once mainly known for its pleasant summer climate and tourism, Fordow later gained international attention due to the nearby nuclear facility, making it a globally recognized name almost overnight.