TEHRAN - More than 12 million visits have been made to museums and cultural heritage sites of Golestan province during the first half of the current Iranian calendar year (started on March 21).

“About 12,623,000 people paid visits to cultural and natural attractions of Golestan province during the first six months of the current year,” Mehr quoted the provincial tourism chief as saying on Sunday.

The data is obtained from visits to museums, handicraft centers, historical sites, recreational parts, natural sites, and religious attractions during the period, Mohammad-Javad Saravi said.

The UNESCO-listed Gonbad-e Qabus, Golestan National Park, Turkmen Sahra, Alangdarreh forest, Gorgan bay are among the province’s top tourist attractions.

Visible from great distances in the surrounding lowlands near the ancient Ziyarid capital, Jorjan, the 53-meter high Gonbad-e Qabus dominates a modern town of the same name laid out around its base in the early 20th century. The monument was built in the 11th century and is the tallest brick tower in the world. It is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Golestan National Park covers an area of 91,890 hectares and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Persian leopard and the Asiatic cheetah. The park also has several hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Turkmen Sahra is a vast desert region that is home to several nomadic tribes who have preserved their traditional way of life for centuries. Visitors can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the

Turkmen people by staying in their traditional tents, trying their delicious cuisine, and learning about their customs and traditions.

Alangdarreh forest is known for its stunning scenery, crystal-clear streams, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and birdwatching in the forest, and also visit the nearby villages to experience the rural life of the region.

Gorgan Bay, as a beautiful lagoon, is a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to over 200 species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons. Visitors can also enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the bay, and explore the nearby wetlands and marshes.

Rich circuit of natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of its people make Golestan a perfect destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike.

AFM