Esfahak Shines as UN’s Best Tourism Village: Official Registration Document Revealed!
Esfahak has recently gained international acclaim as the UN Tourism’s Best Tourism Village, a recognition that highlights its commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. This award was officially unveiled during the 18th Tehran International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition, showcasing the village’s unique offerings in the heart of South Khorasan, Iran.
The honor was celebrated with a formal signing of the certificate by senior provincial officials, emphasizing the village’s remarkable journey and its historical significance. In 2020, Esfahak was awarded a TO-DO Award by the German Institute for Tourism and Development, further solidifying its status as a notable destination.
Director General of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of South Khorasan, Hadi Shahverdi, praised the village’s unique historical architecture, particularly its traditional mud-brick houses, which serve as a major attraction for tourists. He noted that this authentic architectural style was pivotal in securing Esfahak’s global recognition.
However, Esfahak’s path to success hasn’t been without challenges. The village faced complete destruction during the 1978 Tabas earthquake, which led to the abandonment of the area by its residents. Yet, through remarkable community efforts, the villagers managed to revitalize and restore their homeland. This community-driven revival captured the attention of UN Tourism, highlighting Esfahak’s commitment to heritage preservation and sustainable tourism practices.
Shahverdi elaborated on the essential criteria that contributed to Esfahak’s recognition as a Best Tourism Village:
- Unique Natural Attractions: The village is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, sand dunes, and palm groves.
- Tourism Value Chain: Esfahak has developed a solid framework for tourism that benefits the local community.
- Governance Priorities: Local governance focuses on sustainable practices and community involvement.
- Safety Infrastructure: The village has established a safe environment for both locals and visitors.
- Population Size: With a small population of under 15,000, Esfahak fosters a close-knit community atmosphere.
Additionally, Esfahak is known for its traditional agricultural and forestry activities, which contribute to its distinctive lifestyle and shared cultural values. These factors, combined with its rich historical fabric and architecture, position Esfahak as a model for sustainable tourism development.
The village’s diverse attractions include:
- Vast desert landscapes
- Scenic sand dunes
- Lush palm groves
- Qanats (ancient underground water channels)
Shahverdi also highlighted that Esfahak’s rich cultural heritage, customs, and traditions played a significant role in its global recognition. He expressed hope that the village’s inclusion on the UN Tourism’s prestigious list would lead to increased sustainable development, attracting tourists and stimulating investment in tourism infrastructure. This, in turn, would bolster economic growth and improve the living conditions of local residents.
The international acknowledgment of Esfahak emphasizes its historical, architectural, cultural, and natural significance, as well as the dedication of its community. Officials anticipate that this achievement will further elevate Esfahak’s status as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic and sustainable tourism experiences.
Since 2021, the Best Tourism Villages initiative has been dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism in rural areas, focusing on the preservation of natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and indigenous lifestyles, including gastronomy and local values. Esfahak’s inclusion on this global list is a testament to the villagers’ commitment to revitalizing their heritage and transforming it into a sustainable tourism hub that honors its past while paving the way for a prosperous future.
