Kalaleh is a city located in Golestan Province and is considered one of the lesser-known cities in the region. It is situated 125 kilometers from Gorgan. Kalaleh is like a paradise in the north of the country, historically a favorable place for human habitation. Currently, about 150,000 people from villages and tribes live in this area. Join us as we explore Kalaleh in Golestan through this article from Eligasht’s travel magazine.
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The Pristine Nature of Kalaleh
Kalaleh in Golestan boasts extraordinary nature. The city is located in a province known for its beautiful landscapes. To truly understand how beautiful Kalaleh is, you need to combine the stunning images of Golestan in your mind and multiply them! The nature here is pure and unique, with parts of the region still untouched by human influence. As you walk through the vast, green plains, you might spot wild Turkmen horses running freely. When you look up at the sky, you will see mountainous vistas.
The rocks do not resist nature; they wear the beautiful green attire that Mother Nature has crafted for them. The earth, tender like a delicate flower, is moved by this scene and weeps. The earth’s tears spring from the soil, nourishing the beautiful meadows.
Best Time to Visit Kalaleh in Golestan
Kalaleh is situated just 150 meters above sea level. You might think the summers here are extremely hot, but that’s not the case. The mountainous regions and high cliffs block the sun’s rays, preventing the heat from harming the lovely green grasses. Therefore, Kalaleh can be considered a four-season city. You can enjoy the beauty of this city’s nature in various ways throughout the year. However, it should be noted that in May, the greenery in this area becomes significantly more vibrant.
Introducing the Attractions of Kalaleh
Kalaleh is rich in pristine and scenic areas. Its lush nature is well-known among nature enthusiasts. Let’s delve into some of the attractions Kalaleh has to offer.
Lowe Waterfall Kalaleh
Lowe Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and must-see places in Kalaleh, Golestan. It is located on the way to Mashhad, and to reach it, you must pass through Golestan Forest. Imagine venturing deep into the forest; if you are lucky, you might spot some beautiful animals like bears and wild boars along the way. Along the route, you will see trees standing tall like soldiers guarding the path to a royal castle. One interesting fact about Kalaleh’s attractions is that they are all nestled within each other. For instance, Lowe Waterfall is located in the heart of Lowe Forest. So, you’ll be hitting three targets with one arrow! In the depths of Lowe Forest, in addition to the waterfall, several natural mineral springs also emerge from the ground.
Kalaleh Horse Breeding Area
Sufiyan village is another noteworthy attraction in Kalaleh, Golestan. As you may know, Turkmen horses are among the most valuable and fastest breeds. Horse breeding is a challenging endeavor; horses require good living conditions. In this village, the vast green plains and meadows allow horses to run freely and enjoy their lives.
At the Sufiyan horse breeding center, horses live comfortably and are not kept in confinement. Horses are truly beautiful and beloved creatures. Have you ever thought about the catastrophe that would occur in human civilization without horses? Alongside humans, horses have contributed to the advancement of civilization. Beyond their invaluable services, they are indeed beautiful animals. In this village, you can observe the horses up close, and there are even opportunities for visitors and tourists to ride them.
Zav Spring in Kalaleh
It seems that the soil of Kalaleh in Golestan is very delicate and emotional. When Mother Nature tells it that its surface is covered with leaves and needs to shed them, it gets upset and cries. What a state to be in! However, unlike ordinary tears, these beautiful, sweet, and beloved tears bring joy. When the earth puts away its winter attire until next year, when “Old Mother Cold” returns, it weeps tears of happiness, and the natural springs of Kalaleh become even more abundant. Zav Spring is particularly full of water in the spring season and forms a small river. Accessing this spring can be a bit challenging; but as the saying goes, “He who wants the peacock must endure the hardships of India.”
Khalid Nabi Cemetery in Kalaleh
Khalid Nabi Cemetery is one of the most unusual attractions in Kalaleh, Golestan. This site has become one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city. The cemetery dates back about 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in Iran. The gravestones here have a very strange and unique appearance. They are carved from a single piece and are either cylindrical or shaped like a cross. Some believed that the stones were designed based on the deceased’s gender, but that is not the case. According to experts, the stones bear symbols of heroism. In fact, each gravestone differed based on the reputation of the deceased.
History of Kalale in Golestan
In the past, rather than seeking amenities like schools, hospitals, shops, or luxurious neighborhoods, people looked for natural resources to choose their living location. Good air quality, fertile soil, and, most importantly, sufficient water resources were key factors in determining where people settled. Elevated areas were also prioritized because they made it more difficult for enemies to attack their living spaces. The Golestan region, especially Kalaleh, possesses all these conditions. This is why one of the oldest human civilizations developed in this area. Archaeological findings indicate that civilization existed here around 7,000 years ago, making this city one of the oldest in Golestan Province.
Culture of the People of Kalaleh in Golestan
Kalaleh is an ancient city in Iran, with a history dating back 7,000 years. Over this time, the region has witnessed significant ethnic and cultural diversity. The people of Kalaleh are a blend of various ethnic groups, including Turkmen, Baluchi, and Khorasani. They are Muslim and follow Sunni traditions, maintaining their customs and practices. Their local cuisine reflects influences from Baluchi, Turkmen, and Khorasani cultures.
Animal husbandry and horse breeding are primary occupations for the men of Kalaleh. Rural women produce handicrafts and dairy products. The nomadic population continues to live in traditional ways and has a disdain for urban life. They prefer to be in nature and feel a sense of freedom. For them, walls symbolize confinement and limitation.
Where to Stay in Kalale?
Kalaleh in Golestan is a small and beautiful city that lacks large hotels or inns. However, you can take advantage of the eco-lodges available in the area or stay in rural homes to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Another option is camping in nature, which is best during the spring season. It is recommended to camp with friends for a more enjoyable experience.
How to Get to Kalaleh in Golestan?
To reach Kalaleh from the west, you need to pass through Gorgan and its neighboring cities. The distance from Kalaleh to Gorgan is 125 kilometers, which takes about 2 hours. If you are traveling from Tehran, we recommend taking the Firouzkuh Road. This route will take you from Sari to Gorgan, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful forest scenery along the way.
Traveling by train is also an interesting option to get to Kalaleh. You can take a train from Tehran to Gorgan and pass through the scenic Varesk Bridge and mountains. Once you arrive in Gorgan, you can use other transportation to reach Kalaleh. Note that there is no direct bus to Kalaleh, so you will need to transfer in Gorgan.
Final words
Kalaleh is an ancient and beautiful city located in the eastern part of Golestan Province, with a history dating back 7,500 years. It is situated on the road from Gorgan to Maraveh Tappeh and has its own airport, Gholemrza Pahlavi Airport. The people of Kalaleh are a mix of various ethnic groups, including Turkmen, Baluchi, Khorasani, and Azerbaijani, and they are Muslim, following the Sunni faith. Handicrafts, jewelry, traditional clothing, and carpet weaving are among the activities in the city. Kalaleh offers various tourist attractions, such as the Khalid Nabi shrine, Zaw Spring, Karim Ishan Mosque, Gol Park, and the historic wall of Gorgan. You can reach Kalaleh via the Firouzkuh Road or by taking the train.
Related post :
- Traveling to the Qajar period in Tehran Golestan Palace
- Khaled Nabi Cemetery: A Fascinating and Mysterious Cemetery in Golestan Province
- The Hyrcanian Forests of Iran
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Kalaleh?
The best time to visit Kalaleh is during the spring (March to May) when the weather is mild, and the nature is lush and vibrant. This season also offers beautiful blooming landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
How can I get to Kalaleh from Tehran?
You can reach Kalaleh from Tehran by taking the Firouzkuh Road, which offers scenic views along the way. The journey is approximately 350 kilometers and usually takes about 5-6 hours by car. Alternatively, you can take a train from Tehran to Gorgan and then use local transportation to reach Kalaleh.
What accommodation options are available in Kalaleh?
Kalaleh does not have large hotels, but you can find eco-lodges and rural guesthouses that offer a more authentic experience. Staying in local homes allows you to enjoy the hospitality of the people in the region. Camping in nature is also a popular option, especially in the spring.
What attractions should I not miss in Kalaleh?
Key attractions in Kalaleh include the Khalid Nabi Cemetery, known for its unique ancient gravestones, Zaw Spring, the Karim Ishan Mosque, Gol Park, and the historic wall of Gorgan. Each site offers a glimpse into the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the area.
What is the local culture like in Kalaleh?
The culture of Kalaleh is diverse, influenced by various ethnic groups, including Turkmen, Baluchi, and Khorasani. The locals are predominantly Muslim and follow Sunni traditions. You can experience their customs through traditional handicrafts, local cuisine, and festivals that reflect their rich heritage.