TEHRAN—Mazandaran province, which is bounded by mountains and sea, has registered some 90 million overnight stays mainly by domestic travelers in the first eleven months of the current Iranian calendar year (started on March 21).

"The majority of travelers' stays are related to the spring and summer seasons this year, with 70,650,508 nights of accommodation recorded in the province,” the provincial tourism chief said.

Hossein Izadi said that statistical estimates indicate an increase in the number of tourist stays and accommodations in the province compared to the same period last year.

Sandwiched between the towering Alborz mountain range and the Caspian Sea, Mazandaran’s ever-present green landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for hiking, biking, and exploring. Visitors can take a stroll at the stunning Larijan hot springs, one of the most famous natural attractions in the region, and relax after a long day of exploring.

From a geographical point of view, Mazandaran can be divided into two parts, i.e. the coastal plain and the mountainous area. It has a variety of climates, including the mild and humid climate of the Caspian shoreline and the moderate and cold climate of mountainous regions. The Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world, is a major draw for nature enthusiasts. Mazandaran's coastline is dotted with some of the most beautiful beaches, such as Ramsar Beach, Sisangan Beach, and Tonekabon Beach. Sunbathing and taking a dip in the sea are popular activities at these beaches.

Home to countless villages and small towns, Mazandaran is a food lover's paradise as well. It is well-known for its diverse cuisine made with fresh and organic ingredients. Many of its popular dishes have a flavorful mix of white rice, fish, and herbs, cooked with sour orange juice. Its distinctive dishes include: Aghuz Mossama (walnut dish), Tah Chin, Torsh Torshu, Do Pati, Espenasak, pumpkin soup, Esfenaj Marji, Kahi Anar (a dish made from pumpkins), Naz Khatun, Qaliye, Khoresht-e Alu and Aghuznun.

AFM