Kerman province experienced a notable uptick in tourism during the Nowruz holidays, with nearly 2.4 million visits recorded at the region’s historical, cultural, and natural attractions between March 13 and April 5, 2025.
According to local tourism officials, the Gohar Park Tourism Complex in Sirjan was the most popular destination, attracting 290,000 visitors. Situated conveniently for tourists from the provinces of Fars and Hormozgan, the park emerged as a top choice for both locals and travelers from neighboring regions.
Other significant sites included Shahzadeh Garden in Mahan, which saw over 93,000 visitors, and the Ganjali Khan Bathhouse’s Anthropology Museum, which recorded 67,000 visits. The Bam Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, also welcomed 38,000 visitors during the period.
The Lut Desert, a major natural attraction, drew substantial attention, with over 300,000 tourists making their way to Kalout Shahdad and other desert landmarks. This surge in visitors was reflected in the number of vehicles entering the desert region.
In addition to the natural and historical sites, Kerman’s tourism infrastructure was bolstered by the presence of 550 handicrafts pavilions, including 400 temporary and 150 permanent setups. These venues offered a chance to experience the province’s rich cultural heritage.
The province also launched 25 ecotourism museums, designed to introduce tourists to local customs, traditions, and culture. These initiatives contributed to the province’s appeal, making it a key destination for those celebrating the Persian New Year.
Kerman, situated at the crossroads of several provinces, boasts a diverse cultural landscape enriched by its historical landmarks. Among these is the Bazaar-e Sartasari, one of Iran’s oldest and longest covered bazaars, where visitors can find local crafts, textiles, and spices. The ancient Jabalieh Dome, a stone and gypsum structure, stands as a testament to the region’s architectural ingenuity, while the Ganjali Khan Bathhouse offers a glimpse into the sophisticated urban planning of the Safavid era.
Kerman’s strategic location, bordered by Fars, Yazd, South Khorasan, Sistan-Baluchestan, and Hormozgan, as well as its inclusion in the Dasht-e Lut desert region, positions it as a hub for both cultural and natural tourism, drawing travelers from across Iran and beyond.
