Gologazar Valley

Golu-ye Dokhtaran Valley, also known as Gologazar Valley, is one of the unspoiled and picturesque natural attractions of Kerman Province. It lies about 6 kilometres southwest of Hanza, along the side road to Kangari village. With its tall, narrow walls, small waterfalls and tight passages, Golu-ye Dokhtaran Valley closely resembles Rageh Valley in Rafsanjan, yet it keeps its own natural character and distinctive scenery.

A river called the Hanza River flows through the valley and serves as the outlet for the water of the Hanza area. Two rock steps in the middle of the route are the only technical challenge of the valley; the rest of the route is very suitable for hiking and relatively easy, so walking the whole valley takes about two hours. The valley's name, Golu-ye Dokhtaran (literally "the Girls' Throat"), has two explanations: first, the narrow, white, throat-like shape of the valley, which resembles the delicate throat of a girl; and second, the valley's historical use as a refuge where girls hid from bandits and raiders in the past. This history adds to the valley's cultural appeal and legendary charm.

On the mountain slopes and around the valley you can see juniper, cypress and wild pistachio (baneh) trees, which form a beautiful contrast with the rocky landscape of the valley. The area is also home to mountain wildlife such as chukar partridge, fox, hare, wild goat and birds of prey. To reach Gologazar Valley, take the side road to Kangari village and continue to the last village, Gologazar, where the walking trail begins. The best time to visit Golu-ye Dokhtaran Valley is spring and early summer, when the river is flowing, the vegetation is at its greenest and the weather is mild and pleasant. Autumn, with its warm colours and peaceful nature, also offers a dreamlike setting for photography and nature lovers.