TEHRAN – Khalkhal, a mountainous county in Iran’s Ardabil province, will be hosting a winter sports festival scheduled to take place on February 2.

The event is designed to showcase the winter tourism potential of Khalkhal, drawing upon the extensive interest of sports and winter recreation enthusiasts in the region, Khalkhal’s tourism chief said on Monday.

Ali Darvishi underlined Khalkhal’s rich tourism potential during the wintertime and expressed optimism about welcoming participation in winter sports and leisure activities during the festival.

“We aim to introduce the winter tourism attractions of Khalkhal and foster social enthusiasm and joy.”

Various activities have been planned for the event, including archery, snow sculpture competitions, the creation of handicraft and souvenir booths, and the performance of traditional ceremonies and music, the official said.

According to organizers, the festival is not only expected to provide entertainment and recreational opportunities for locals but also serve as an initiative to boost tourism in the region during the winter months. With a lineup of diverse activities, the festival promises to create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere, contributing to the cultural and social well-being of the Khalkhal community.

Over the past couple of years, Ardabil’s tourism department, in close partnership with other governmental bodies and private investors, has formulated extensive plans to draw more tourists during winter by launching three new ski resorts, among other efforts.

Sprawling on a high, windswept plateau, whose altitude averages 3,000 meters above sea level, Ardebil is well-known for having lush natural beauties, hospitable people, and its silk and carpet trade tradition. It is also home to the UNESCO-registered Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble.

The province is very cold in winter and mild in summer, attracting thousands every year. The capital city of Ardabil is usually recorded as one of the coldest cities in the country in winter.

Iran has long been an international destination for avid powder chasers during winter, while - in total contrast - its arid and semi-arid climate reaches sweltering levels in summer. Maybe not the first that comes to mind, snow-capped mountains above Tehran are home to some of the world’s best ski resorts where powder hounds can enjoy famous Iranian hospitality.

AFM