Baraghan Aims for World’s Best Tourism Villages Title with Exciting Culinary Festivals!
Baraghan village in Alborz province is making headlines as it strives to be recognized on the prestigious World Best Tourism Villages list. The recent cuisine tourism festival, centered around the region’s famous Baraghan plum, showcased local culinary delights and attracted a significant number of tourists and culture enthusiasts, marking a pivotal moment in the village’s tourism journey.
The festival was orchestrated by the Alborz Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Department, alongside local residents, the Baraghan Rural District, the Baraghan Islamic Council, and Parseh Tourism Training Company. This collaborative effort highlights the community’s commitment to promoting Baraghan as a premier tourism destination.
“The impressive enthusiasm for the cuisine tourism festival is a vital step in introducing this village to the world,” stated Nader Zeinali, the caretaker of Alborz Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department. He emphasized that the festival not only celebrates local cuisine but also positions Baraghan as a hub for culinary tourism and handicrafts.
- Economic Growth: Events like these enhance economic and cultural prosperity in the region.
- Global Recognition: Baraghan is on the brink of globalization registration.
- Culinary Heritage: The village boasts three national intangible heritages, including plum processing methods and Baraghan Samanoo.
Tahereh Shahi, a cultural heritage expert, remarked that the cuisine tourism festival serves as an effective means to showcase the village’s unique customs and culinary capabilities. She highlighted Baraghan’s rich heritage, which includes:
- Plum processing method
- Goleh ice-cream processing method
- Baraghan Samanoo, a traditional Iranian sweet paste
According to Hossein Rahimi, the manager of Pars Cooking and Pastry School, the inaugural cuisine tourism festival attracted 40 participants from various villages in Alborz province. He noted that locals made up the majority of attendees, underscoring community involvement and support for the event.
“We prepared approximately 40 tables featuring a variety of foods and desserts that utilized plums,” Rahimi explained. Additionally, 15 handicraft pavilions were set up, showcasing the talents of local artists.
Rahimi expressed optimism that this festival would be a transformative moment for Baraghan, paving the way for larger events aimed at promoting the village’s food culture and handicrafts. At the conclusion of the festival, awards and cash prizes were given to the top three winners, celebrating their contributions to the event.
In 2024, Baraghan and Salehieh were officially recognized in the national list of top tourist villages. Located just 10 kilometers west of Tehran, Alborz province is actively working to enhance rural tourism. The region has identified 50 villages as potential candidates for rural tourism development, with Baraghan and Salehieh emerging as standout selections due to their unique charm and cultural significance.
Baraghan is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich historical heritage, making it an attractive destination for both local and international tourists. On the other hand, Salehieh offers traditional architecture and warm hospitality, ensuring visitors have an authentic rural experience.
This recognition not only underscores the natural beauty and cultural wealth of Alborz province but also reflects the increasing significance of rural tourism in Iran. By highlighting these hidden gems, local authorities aim to diversify the country’s tourism offerings while spreading economic benefits to rural communities.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in tourist preferences, with many seeking unique experiences such as:
- Spending tranquil days in the countryside
- Picking fresh fruit
- Observing rice cultivation
- Fishing by the riverside
- Tasting traditional cuisine
- Staying with local families
The United Nations Tourism Organization defines rural tourism as an activity where visitors engage with a diverse range of products connected to nature, agriculture, rural lifestyles, culture, and more. This form of tourism is characterized by:
- Low population density
- Mainly agricultural and forestry landscapes
- A social structure rooted in traditional ways of life
As Baraghan continues to develop its tourism potential, the village is set to become a beacon for sustainable and enriching travel experiences, positioning itself on the global tourism map.
