Kalut Shahdad desert

Exploring Shahdad Desert in Kerman

The Shahdad Desert, with temperatures soaring above 70°C (158°F), is recognized as one of the hottest places on Earth. Located in the western part of the Lut Desert, about 100 kilometers from Kerman and 40 kilometers from the town of Shahdad, this desert has become a top destination for both domestic and international travelers.

For desert enthusiasts and those tired of the noise and bustle of urban life, Shahdad Desert offers the perfect escape — a place filled with peace, serenity, and fresh air. But don’t let this tranquility fool you; a trip to Shahdad doesn’t mean a boring or uneventful journey. If you’re someone who craves excitement and adventure, you’ll also find thrilling activities such as off-roading, camel riding, motorbiking, and stargazing under the vast desert sky.

In summary, Shahdad Desert in Kerman is a unique blend of natural beauty and desert adventure, offering an unforgettable experience for all kinds of travelers.

Tourist Attractions in Shahdad Desert, Kerman

In recent years, Shahdad Desert has gained popularity as a unique and remote tourist destination, boasting a 6,000-year-old civilization. Below are some of the most unique attractions in this fascinating region.

The Mysterious City of Kalouts in the Heart of the Desert

In the heart of Shahdad Desert lies a natural phenomenon known as the “Kalouts” — massive earth formations shaped by moisture and wind over centuries. These structures resemble skyscrapers rising from the sand.

The term “Kalout” is derived from the Persian words “Kal” and “Lut”, meaning “the city of Lut.” Some even refer to this area as the “ghost city” due to its hauntingly quiet and surreal appearance.

A visit to the Kalouts can be a truly thrilling experience. These massive formations demonstrate the raw power of nature. Some Kalouts reach heights of up to 138 meters (453 feet), leaving visitors in awe of their size and structure.

Shur River (Salty River) in Shahdad Desert

The Shur River is one of the unique features of Shahdad Desert — a permanent river that flows right through the heart of the Lut Desert. It originates in the northern mountains of Birjand and passes through Serya Salt Mountain and a salt mine basin before reaching Shahdad.

This river played a key role in shaping the Kalouts, as the movement of its highly saline water caused erosion that formed these massive natural sculptures.

The water of Shur River is so salty that during certain seasons it appears milky white. This distinctive appearance makes it one of Shahdad’s rare and intriguing natural wonders.

Kalout Lake of Shahdad

Kalout Lake is a relatively new natural phenomenon formed after the floods of April 2019. This lake emerged in the middle of what was once a dry, barren landscape, and it is nothing short of a miracle. The previously parched “city” of Kalouts now stands surrounded by water, drawing comparisons to the canals of Venice, Italy.

The emergence of this lake not only added to the scenic beauty but also brought about noticeable climatic changes. Migratory birds started appearing, and new plant species began to grow around the lake. This increase in biodiversity has further enhanced the beauty and ecological significance of the Shahdad Desert.

Egg-Boiling Salt Fields of Shahdad Desert

Among the most fascinating natural features of the Shahdad region are the so-called “egg-boiling salt fields.” As the Shur River passes through the desert, it raises the salt concentration in the soil to extremely high levels. This has led to the formation of an expansive salt plain covering nearly 100,000 hectares.

What makes this salt plain unique is its surface texture, which looks like bubbling eggs or scattered egg whites — a rare natural phenomenon. These formations, caused by the salt concentration and erosion from the Shur River, make this salt plain one of the most unusual and visually stunning sights in the world.

Nebkas — The Desert Flowerpots of Shahdad

One of Shahdad’s most charming natural formations is the Nebka — or as they are sometimes called, “desert flowerpots.” Nebkas are formed when a specific plant grows in a windy area, causing sand to accumulate around its base. Over time, the sand creates a large pot-like shape around the plant.

These natural formations can reach up to 10 meters (about 33 feet) in height and are considered among the most exceptional desert phenomena in the world. Seeing these massive, plant-filled sand pots dotting the landscape is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Main Desert Activities in Shahdad, Kerman

As Shahdad has gained popularity among adventurers and travelers, more recreational activities have become available. These attractions let you enjoy both the beauty and excitement the desert has to offer.

1. Safari in Shahdad Desert

If you’re a fan of off-road desert tours, then a safari in Shahdad is perfect for you. Local guides will take you in off-road vehicles through the soft sands and natural paths of the Lut Desert. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique desert flora and fauna. The cost of these tours varies depending on the type of vehicle selected.

2. Off-Roading in Shahdad Desert

Off-roading differs from safari tours — it’s designed for thrill-seekers looking for speed and adrenaline. This involves high-speed driving across the desert, creating a feeling of weightlessness and excitement. Even if you don’t know how to drive an off-road vehicle, you can rent one with a professional driver.

Important Note: Off-roading is done only with the permission of the Iranian Cultural Heritage Organization and in designated routes to prevent environmental damage.

These activities will leave you with lasting memories of your adventure in Shahdad Desert.

Exciting & Peaceful Activities in Shahdad Desert

In addition to natural beauty, Shahdad Desert offers a wide range of activities to suit both thrill-seekers and those looking for peace and relaxation. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Motorbiking in Shahdad Desert

Quad biking is a popular activity here. These four-wheeled motorbikes offer great balance and don’t require advanced riding skills. Just hop on, start the engine, and ride into the horizon. Don’t forget your helmet — safety first!

Camel Riding in Shahdad Desert

Another unique experience is camel riding. With help from local guides, you can mount a camel and ride through the Kalouts, salt fields, and desert shrubs. It’s a peaceful journey that offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past and the unmatched calm of the desert.