TEHRAN – There is a unique potential to develop the Karaj Dam as a tourist attraction in the north-central Iranian province of Alborz, a tourism expert has said.

A major source of water supply for Alborz and Tehran provinces, Karaj Dam, is one of the largest dams in Iran.

Visitors to the Karaj Dam can also learn about energy and water supply while seeing its unique natural views, Ata Hariri said on Saturday.

Several beautiful waterfalls can be found nearby this dam, making it an excellent tourist destination, he added.

Visiting local waterfalls has always been a popular tourist attraction for both domestic and foreign travelers, he noted.

Moreover, tourism infrastructures such as accommodation and catering centers provide tourists seeking a break from the city with the possibility of staying for a few days and enjoying nature in this unique setting, he mentioned.

Back in May 2019, the Ministry of Energy inked a memorandum of understanding with the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Ministry to lay the ground for launching dam tourism.

Though much of Iran is composed of arid and semi-arid lands, the country has many rivers, waterfalls, ponds, and wetlands offering scenic vistas to nature lovers and eco-travelers, backpackers, birdwatchers and fishers.

Water tourism involves traveling to locations specifically to take part in water-based activities. Some people who do not wish to partake in water-related activities embark on water tourism trips so that they can visit tourist sites that sit close to bodies of water such as lakes, seas, or even dams. Water tourists are often independent travelers, although some travel firms do organize group trips.

Alborz province is surrounded by Mazandaran, Tehran, Markazi, and Qazvin provinces. Its name is driven by the Alborz Mountains. A significant part of the mountains is located in the northern part of the province.

Historical resources and documents, as well as archeological studies, indicate that Alborz has a rich culture dating back to prehistoric times.

ABU/AM