Journey to the Hottest Spot on Earth (Gandom Beryan, Shahdad Desert, Kerman)

The Gandom Beryan plain, also known as “Rig-e Sokhteh” (Burnt Sand) by locals, is one of the most astonishing yet inhospitable natural phenomena in Iran and the world. Located on the western edge of the Lut Desert (Dasht-e Lut) in Kerman Province, this vast area is famous not only for its stunning, moon-like landscape but also for being the hottest surface point ever recorded on Earth. A journey to Gandom Beryan is a unique expedition into a realm of absolute silence, unparalleled heat, and total absence of life—a must-see destination for any serious Iran desert tours itinerary.

1. Gandom Beryan Attractions, Naming, Life, and Temperature Record

A) Geographical Location and Physical Characteristics

Gandom Beryan is situated in the central-western part of the Lut Desert.

Precise Location: The area is located approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Shahdad city (near the famous Kalouts region) in Kerman Province.
Area: The approximate size of this black plain extends to about 480 square kilometers.
Composition: The surface of Gandom Beryan is covered with dark, black basaltic volcanic rocks and lava. This dark covering plays the crucial role in absorbing maximum solar radiation, giving the area the lowest albedo (reflectivity) and the highest temperatures.

B) World Temperature Record and Cause

Based on satellite measurements by NASA in 2005, the highest surface temperature on Earth was recorded here, reaching $70.7^{\circ} \text{C}$ ( $159.3^{\circ} \text{F}$ ). This extraordinary surface temperature is a direct result of the heat storage capacity of the black basaltic lava fields.

C) Origin of the Name and Absence of Life

Etymology: The name Gandom Beryan (Roasted Wheat) originates from a local story: Caravans passing through this route would find their wheat cargo completely roasted and burnt within a short period due to the intense heat.
Absence of Life (Abiotic): The severity of heat and absolute dryness in Gandom Beryan is so extreme that the area is reported to be entirely devoid of life. During the hottest hours, even microorganisms and bacteria cannot survive.

2. Gandom Beryan Travel Guide and Safety

A trip to Gandom Beryan is not a typical vacation; it is a specialized adventure. This demanding environment requires careful planning, making the Gandom Beryan Desert Tour a serious consideration for experienced travelers booking a Kerman desert tour package.

Topic	Essential Travel Details and Recommendations
Best Time to Visit	Late Autumn, Winter, and Early Spring. Travel during summer is extremely dangerous. Visits should be planned during the cooler hours (very early morning or late afternoon).
Accommodation & Camping	Camping is possible around Gandom Beryan, but only with complete camping gear and strict safety adherence, ideally in the cooler seasons. Staying in eco-lodges near Shahdad is recommended.
Permits & Guides	Entry into the Gandom Beryan area strictly requires an experienced local guide and necessary permits. Solo hiking is highly discouraged and dangerous.
Vital Equipment	Water, water, water: Carry much more than you think you need. Wear loose, light-colored, breathable clothing (full-body coverage is essential), wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen (reapply frequently), durable footwear, and a GPS system.
Heat & Vehicle Safety	Avoid prolonged vehicle parking on the hot basaltic ground, as the surface temperature can damage tires and plastic equipment. Bring insulated gear for the sharp temperature drops at night during cold seasons.
Emergency & Communication	The nearest reputable medical center is in Shahdad. Mobile phone reception in the Gandom Beryan area is very poor or non-existent. A satellite communication device is highly recommended.

3. Gandom Beryan Surroundings (Nearby Attractions)

Gandom Beryan is part of a cluster of wonders in the Lut Desert that completes the travel experience:

Shahdad Kalouts (Yardangs): The fascinating Kalouts (Yardangs) are wind-eroded natural clay formations near Gandom Beryan. Known as the “city of ghosts,” these structures are globally unique and an essential stop on any Iran desert tours.
Nebkas (Desert Vases): These are small sand hills formed around Tamarisk shrubs, with some of the tallest examples in the world found around Shahdad.
Salty River (Salty River): The only permanent river in the Lut Desert, notable for its extremely high salt concentration, creating a unique hydrological phenomenon.

A journey to this region is an homage to the immense power of nature, offering a landscape found almost nowhere else on the planet.