Kerman Set to Shine as Host of Major Eco-Tourism Summit

In a significant development for eco-tourism in Iran, Kerman is set to host a major gathering on May 21 (Ordibehesht 31 in the Persian calendar), bringing together various stakeholders to celebrate and promote sustainable tourism. This event will feature hundreds of eco-lodge managers, government officials, and international representatives, highlighting the province’s rich heritage and natural attractions.

Kerman province is renowned for its remarkable eco-tourism potential, boasting:

• 10 globally recognized heritage sites
• Over 800 nationally registered heritage sites
• Numerous historical and natural attractions
• Pristine regions and a rich cultural backdrop

Currently, Kerman is home to approximately 350 active eco-tourism residences, primarily located in areas such as Shahdad, Baft, Shahr-e Babak, Zarand, and Jiroft. According to Kerman Governor-General Mohammadali Talebi, this festival could be a pivotal moment for eco-tourism, not only within Kerman but also on a national level. He stated:

“Kerman province is considered one of the major eco-tourism destinations across the country, adding that this southern province has unique capacities for promoting the eco-tourism field.”

Talebi emphasized that the national eco-tourism festival will play a crucial role in introducing the province’s tourism and indigenous attractions. He noted that effective dissemination of information regarding the festival will enhance public awareness and participation in promoting tourism.

He further highlighted the importance of the event as an opportunity for exchanging experiences among eco-tourism resorts nationwide. During the festival, a slogan themed “The World’s Smile to Kerman 1405” will be unveiled, marking a step towards achieving Vision 1405. Talebi urged all stakeholders to contribute to transforming Kerman into a city that meets international tourism standards.

Emphasizing the role of media as a bridge between the public and policymakers, Talebi stated:

“We must take advertising campaigns, appropriate content for cyberspace, and cooperation with national media seriously. My personal experience on one of the social networks showed how much people from all over the country are interested in Kerman and that high-quality and targeted content is effective.”

He invited all agencies, public institutions, NGOs, and tourism activists to collaborate and introduce a fresh image of Kerman by showcasing the province’s capabilities in handicrafts, traditional music, local cuisines, and eco-tourism sectors.

Seyyed Mahdi Tabibzadeh, Head of Kerman Chamber of Commerce, mentioned that over 350 eco-lodges have registered to participate in the festival, which will kick off at Kerman’s Arg Square. Yavar Abiri, who leads the Iranian association for eco-lodge operators, confirmed that the event is scheduled for Ordibehesht 31 in Kerman province.

This initiative coincides with the recent designation of May 21 as Iran’s National Eco-Tourism Day. Although no celebratory event took place in 2024, organizers are gearing up for a large-scale gathering this year, expecting to attract between 500 to 700 eco-lodge managers and relevant officials from across the country. Invitations have also been sent to foreign ambassadors and representatives from the UN Tourism (formerly known as the United Nations World Tourism Organization, UNWTO).

Among the anticipated attendees is the head of the UN Tourism’s rural tourism registration division, who may conduct a specialized workshop on registering Iranian villages for global recognition.

In a bid to enhance the travel experience, a specially designed train operated by the private sector will transport 300 to 400 participants from Tehran to Kerman. This train, adorned with cultural elements and decorations, will make stops in historical cities such as Isfahan and Yazd, allowing passengers to explore these remarkable locations. Traditional performance groups will also entertain guests throughout the journey, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the trip.

Supported by the Kerman provincial government, this two-day event aims to underscore Iran’s commitment to eco-tourism and sustainable rural development. The gathering is anticipated to strengthen collaborations among eco-tourism operators while showcasing Iran’s rich cultural and natural heritage on an international platform.