Exciting Developments: 80 New Tourism Projects Boosting Kordestan Province!

Explore the rich tourism landscape of Kordestan province, located in western Iran. With 80 tourism projects currently underway, this region is poised to become a hotspot for visitors seeking cultural and natural experiences. The Director General of Kordestan Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Department, Mansour Mehrzad, revealed that these projects are crucial for enhancing the province’s tourism appeal.

According to Mehrzad, a substantial investment of approximately 30,000 billion rials (around $30 million) is necessary to complete these initiatives. Fortunately, a significant portion of this funding is being provided by the private sector. This collaboration highlights the potential of Kordestan as a prime destination for investment in tourism, where the private sector typically covers about 80% of the costs.

Among the noteworthy projects is the Parsian Hotel of Mostazafan Foundation, which has secured adequate financial resources. However, it encountered challenges related to water resources, which have since been addressed through diligent follow-up efforts. Mehrzad expressed optimism about the completion of these ongoing projects in the coming years.

Despite the progress, Kordestan still faces challenges in terms of accommodation services and tourism infrastructure. Even with the inauguration of 33 under-construction hotels, there remains a pressing need for further investments in this sector. To attract potential investors, close to 85 investment packages have been meticulously prepared across the province, with many available for delivery at the mapping stage.

However, the availability of banking facilities in the province is limited, posing a challenge for potential investors. Given the increasing influx of tourists, there is an urgent requirement to develop tourism infrastructures to meet growing demands.

Kordestan province is renowned for its vibrant culture and strong sense of identity. It features a stunning landscape of high, cold mountains and historical terraced villages that are perfect for exploration. The capital city, Sanandaj, is located 458 km from Tehran and serves as a pivotal tourist destination, offering numerous attractions for visitors.

Another highlight of Kordestan is Marivan, a picturesque town located on the border with Iraq. Marivan is particularly appealing for its proximity to Zarivar Lake, renowned for its breathtaking natural views and as a hotspot for birdwatching. Visitors to Marivan can also explore the untouched villages surrounding the lake, providing an authentic glimpse into local life.

One cannot miss the enchanting village of Palangan, famous for its terraced houses that are ingeniously designed, with each house’s roof serving as another’s yard. The journey to Palangan, which takes approximately two hours from Marivan through the stunning Kurdish mountains, is a scenic adventure in itself.

After experiencing the charm of Palangan, visitors can continue their journey to Uraman Takht, recognized as the most renowned terraced village in Kordestan. Spending one or two nights in Uraman allows tourists to fully immerse themselves in the village’s culture and explore the surrounding mountains, where locals cultivate summer gardens.

• Tourism Projects in Kordestan: 80 projects currently in development.
• Investment Needs: Approximately 30,000 billion rials required.
• Private Sector Involvement: Covers 80% of the costs.
• Key Projects: Parsian Hotel, among others.
• Investment Packages: 85 packages prepared to attract investors.
• Tourism Infrastructure Needs: Continued investment required despite new hotel openings.

In conclusion, Kordestan province is not only rich in cultural heritage but also offers vast potential for tourism development. As investments flow into this stunning region, it is poised to become a leading destination for travelers seeking both adventure and authenticity. The combination of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and ongoing projects makes Kordestan a must-visit location for those exploring Iran.