Sisakht is undoubtedly a familiar name for nature enthusiasts and admirers of Iran’s beauty. This region holds hidden attractions that are sure to leave you in awe of its splendor. After passing through ancient forests in the southern Zagros region, Sisakht reveals itself to you. Mount Dena, a shining gem that requires enduring numerous hardships to reach, stands before you. It’s like a gateway leading to the enchanting Sisakht area. Among its natural counterparts scattered throughout Iran, Sisakht is considered one of the unique attractions of Yasuj. In this article from Eligasht, we will take a journey to explore the area from every angle and delve into its surroundings.
introduction
This place is a must-visit destination for patient nature enthusiasts. It is one of the cities in Dena County, located precisely 35 kilometers northwest of Yasuj. You may not know that the name of this city is intertwined with the legend of Keykhosrow, one of the Iranian kings, as well as the 30 warriors who accompanied him. The Dena Mountains, situated in the beautiful Zagros mountain range, are the source of springs and rivers that completely saturate the Sisakht area. Alongside its mysterious parts, they create a completely different environment for tourists and nature lovers. Sisakht is, in essence, the famous lost paradise with vast gardens and gushing springs, where one can experience golden dreams embraced by Dena’s tranquility.
The profoundly untouched and unparalleled nature of this 16,000-square-kilometer mountainous and elevated land, belonging to Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, introduces you to a mesmerizing world. Its ancient historical background, once the seat of the Achaemenid Empire with Yasuj as its center, has provided a complete collection of natural, historical, and noteworthy attractions. The people of this land, all belonging to the illustrious and renowned Boyer-Ahmad dynasty, are known for their warmth, kindness, sincerity, and honesty. Sisakht, the center of Dena County, showcases a different aspect of Iran with its ancient oak forests, numerous springs, and mountainous landscapes.
Access Route to Sisakht
To access this natural and beautiful wonder of God in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, you need to first make your way to Yasuj. Then, after passing through the ancient and beautiful oak forests, and navigating through the numerous twists and turns, some of which have steep inclines, you will arrive at the mountainous region of Bijan’s Pass, where Sisakht awaits you. Tourists and urban nature enthusiasts in this area encounter the hospitality and friendliness of the local people, and various hotels such as Jahangardi Hotel and Parsian Azadi Hotel are suitable options for tourists’ accommodations in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province.
Attractions in the Sisakht Region
As you know, every corner of Iran, alongside its natural attractions, has various other abundant and distinct sights. This is also true for the Sisakht region. In the following, we will introduce you to the attractions of this area.
Mishi Spring or Besho Spring in Sisakht
The first attraction of this region is Mishi Spring, which is considered the largest and most abundant spring in the lower part of Bijan’s Pass. This spring is bubbling and gushing, and it continues to sustain life. Mishi Spring is primarily a natural water source for drinking water supply in the Sisakht area, as well as for agriculture in the region.
Tagi Spring
After you get tired from mountaineering, the coolness of this crystal-clear spring can quench your thirst and relieve your fatigue. The water from this spring is used for irrigating walnut, grape, and apple orchards in the Kalenjeh region. The lushness and vitality of this area are all thanks to this spring. The air around it is extremely pure, and the surrounding area is green and filled with various flowers. Lake Kuhgilu, located in the large and protected area of Mount Dena and the Bijan Pass, is another attraction near Tagi Spring.
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Kohgol
Kohgol boasts its status as one of the must-see attractions in Sisakht. Nestled within this enchanting region lies Kohgol Lake. Stretching across approximately half a hectare and with a depth of 15 meters, this pristine lake has become the birthplace of a captivating ecosystem, creating a harmonious symphony of nature in its surroundings. Embracing an abundance of flora and fauna, Kohgol Canyon has a rich biodiversity. During the summer months, visitors are treated to the mesmerizing sight of migratory birds, including graceful mallards, green-headed ducks, elegant herons, majestic storks, and an array of native avian species, all adding a delightful touch to the canyon’s ambiance. The landscape is adorned with an array of plant life, including mountain mushrooms, aromatic thyme, delicate chamomile, refreshing mountain mint, wild ryegrass, fragrant valerian, and the invigorating aroma of mountain pennyroyal. It’s as if nature itself has painted this region with a palette of resplendent flowers, pleasing even the most discerning admirer.
Cheshmeh Sard
Cheshmeh Sard, situated in the scenic mountainous region of Kohgol near Yasuj in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, stands as a captivating tourist attraction. This natural wonder, known for its exceptionally cold water, offers a respite for thousands of visitors seeking solace from the scorching heat of the southern regions. As you embark on the Cheshmeh Mishi route and venture into the enchanting Kohgol area, you’ll be greeted by the unparalleled coolness of this spring, a delightful treat during the summer months.
The Green Region of Dena
Another notable attraction in this area, which belongs to the legendary Iranian hero Keykhusrow, is the Dena region, a place with towering peaks reaching the sky and very deep valleys. This region has rivers named Beshar and Marbar, which, when combined, can transform barren land into fertile agricultural land. Additionally, various medicinal and edible plants grow alongside decorative plants in this area, including wild pistachio, kakom, arzhan, and zalzalak, which are specific to this region and have exceptional growth and development. It is worth mentioning that this protected area serves as a safe habitat for animals such as brown bears, leopards, wildcats, lynxes, and wolves. Birds such as eagles, partridges, and falcons are also abundant in this area.
Souvenirs of the Sisakht Region
If you travel to this region, don’t forget its souvenirs. Among the souvenirs of the Sisakht region in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, which is a completely mountainous area, there are numerous and diverse agricultural products that are highly famous.
Sisakht Walnuts
The attractive snack of walnuts is the first souvenir that you should not miss buying in this region. Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province have the highest rank in the country in the production and preparation of walnuts. The majority of walnuts and other nutritious agricultural products produced in this province belong to the cities of Dena, Charam, and Boyer-Ahmad.
Sisakht Grapes and Honey
Another souvenir worth mentioning is grapes and honey. Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province is one of the main and well-known centers for honey production in Iran. It typically produces 1,000 tons of high-quality honey annually, which is considered one of the most popular export products among countries in the Persian Gulf region.
Handicrafts of the Sisakht Region
Don’t forget the handicrafts of this region. Rural women and nomads produce products such as “Mashteh” and “Gachmeh,” which cannot be found anywhere else. “Gachmeh” is a type of rug with prominent beautiful patterns that are used as a rug or a backpack. “Mashteh” is another handicraft of the region, which is woven with a thicker texture and is used as a floor covering, with unique designs and colors.
Customs and Traditions of the Sisakht Region
In this region, like other parts of Iran, people follow the customs, traditions, and specific rituals of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad. This province is home to a large and diverse population of Lur-speaking communities, and like other provinces in our country, Iran, they have their celebrations, festivals, ceremonies, and mourning rituals, which they perform more magnificently on different occasions.
The New Year and Norouz (Iranian New Year) in this region are times for establishing peace, tranquility, and dispelling darkness. During these days, people exchange gifts, and “Rish Sefid” and “Khadkhoda” also give gifts to the people.
When people are mourning the loss of a loved one, all the community members try to break the mourning atmosphere in the “Pand Shekani” ceremony. They remove the black mourning clothes from the mourners after a period of mourning and give them colorful clothes to help them transition out of mourning.
The “Chaleh Garm Konoon” Ceremony is another common ceremony in this province, which is held one day before the arrival of Norouz (Iranian New Year) and the new year. It takes place with the presence of the poor and the rich to warm themselves and keep warm. In this ceremony, the host’s table is spread with warm and delicious food for everyone to enjoy.
Final words
If you intend to travel to the Sisakht region, we recommend choosing the spring and summer seasons for your trip. Yasuj and the entire province of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad are located in a cold climate region and experience rainy and snowy autumns and winters. However, in the glorious spring and summer that follow, they showcase their full splendor and invite you towards themselves with the display of lush and colorful plains. Now, it is nature that speaks to you and tries to show only a small part of its true beauty to everyone.
FAQ
1- Where is Sisakht located?
Sisakht is located in the Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad provinces in southwestern Iran. It is situated in the Dena mountainous region, offering stunning natural landscapes.
2- What are some popular tourist attractions in Sisakht?
It is known for its proximity to several notable tourist attractions. Some popular destinations include Cheshmeh Sard, a cold spring renowned for its refreshing waters, and Kohgol, a picturesque area with diverse lakes and vibrant flora and fauna.
3- How can I reach Sisakht?
Sisakht can be reached by road, with regular bus services connecting it to major cities in Iran. The nearest airport is Yasuj Airport, which is approximately 60 kilometers away and offers domestic flights.
4- What is the climate like in Sisakht?
Sisakht experiences a moderate climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The region enjoys pleasant weather during spring and autumn, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
5- Are there any hiking or trekking opportunities in this area?
Yes, Sisakht is a great destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The Dena mountain range offers various trails of different difficulty levels, allowing visitors to experience the breathtaking beauty of the region while enjoying outdoor adventures. It is advisable to plan and prepare accordingly, considering weather conditions and necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable trek.