Iran Launches Inaugural Ecolodge Celebration to Boost Sustainable Tourism
The city of Kerman recently hosted Iran’s inaugural National Celebration of Ecolodges on May 21, marking a significant step towards promoting sustainable and community-based tourism in the country. This event drew over 600 ecolodge managers from various regions, serving as both a celebration and a platform to enhance networking, experience-sharing, and sustainable tourism practices.
During the ceremony, Iranian Tourism Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri expressed strong government support for the development of ecolodges, stating, “This is a land of dignity and Iranian identity.” He highlighted the intrinsic beauty and cultural richness of Iran, saying, “Iran is beautiful and full of vibrant colors. Every corner of this land is a story waiting to be told — from the majestic Arg-e Bam to the mesmerizing Shazdeh Garden in the heart of the desert.”
Minister Salehi-Amiri emphasized the importance of ecolodges not just as accommodations but as vital spaces for cultural storytelling. He remarked, “We need to transform ecolodges into spaces of calm storytelling. Three thousand ecolodges are not enough. These lodges are now central to the missions of cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts. They are destinations in their own right — created by and for the people.”
He reassured attendees that support for ecolodges is a top priority at the governmental level. “Every member of the government, including the president, believes in strengthening this sector,” he added. “I have recently met with hotel owners and travel agencies, and I will be meeting with representatives of ecolodges as well. I’m fully aware of their challenges, and the government is ready to listen.”
Anoushirvan Mohseni Bandpey, the deputy for tourism, highlighted the grassroots nature of Iran’s ecolodges, identifying them as one of the most significant and people-oriented tourism infrastructures in the country. He noted recent initiatives aimed at restoring historical houses and caravanserais, emphasizing that the festival’s purpose was to raise awareness, build networks, and facilitate experience-sharing among ecolodge operators.
Mohammad-Ali Talebi, the governor-general of Kerman province, showcased the region’s rich cultural and geographical diversity, stating, “Kerman is home to thousands of years of civilization and possesses significant tourism potential, with hundreds of registered ecolodges, UNESCO-listed heritage sites, and diverse eco-climates.” He articulated Kerman’s vision to become a hub for experience-based and health tourism.
Talebi further stated, “Each ecolodge is a center of wealth creation, cultural preservation, and community resilience,” emphasizing that the province’s tourism development strategy is focused on:
- Smart tourism
- Streamlined licensing
- Professional training
- Branding of local and nomadic ecotourism experiences
Kerman’s Mayor, Abbas Toiserkani, also addressed the audience, discussing collaborative projects with the Department of Cultural Heritage aimed at revitalizing the city’s historical fabric. These projects include the restoration and stone paving of old alleyways, enhancing the area’s aesthetic and cultural appeal.
Yavari Abiri, President of the National Ecolodge Association, noted that managers traveled from as far away as Maku, Chabahar, Khuzestan, Bushehr, and Khorasan to attend the celebration. He presented the National Ecolodge Festival emblem to the event’s organizers in recognition of their commendable efforts.
This celebration coincided with the UN-designated World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, underscoring the role of ecolodges in promoting intercultural understanding and sustainable development. The event not only celebrated the achievements of ecolodge operators but also highlighted the potential for these establishments to foster community resilience and economic growth.
In conclusion, the first National Celebration of Ecolodges in Kerman represents a pivotal moment for sustainable tourism in Iran. With the government’s backing and the active participation of ecolodge managers, the future looks promising for this vital sector, which blends cultural heritage with modern tourism practices.
