Kharā Desert

Kharā Desert (sometimes also called the Kharā Wilderness) is located in Isfahan Province and forms part of the desert areas in the east of the province. It lies about 100 kilometres east of the city of Isfahan and 150 kilometres west of Yazd, and with its broad, uniform landscapes it is regarded as one of the most important sand seas in eastern Isfahan. Kharā is bounded to the north by Varzaneh County and the Zayandeh Rud, to the east by the Gavkhouni Wetland, to the south by Hasanabad, and to the west by the Hasanabad–Varzaneh road. The sand fields of Kharā Desert are estimated to cover roughly 17,000 hectares, which reflects the vastness and natural importance of the area.

The landscape of Kharā Desert combines high sandy dune fields and sand hills in a variety of forms, such as linear, crescent-shaped and pyramid-shaped dunes. On the southern side of the desert, these dunes turn into walls of sand and limestone, between which highly alkaline soils can be seen, giving the desert scenery a unique character. Ecologically, there is some vegetation in parts of Kharā Desert, and hardy species, especially shrubs, are found in areas with relatively higher moisture; this vegetation is mostly seen near the Gavkhouni Wetland. The night sky here is very dark and spectacular, offering a great opportunity for stargazing and astrophotography.

To reach Kharā Desert, you usually set out from the city of Isfahan. After driving along the road towards Varzaneh, about 5 kilometres south of Varzaneh you turn onto a dirt road that takes visitors directly to the Kharā sand field. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder and the silence of the desert and the sandy scenery are at their most beautiful. Because the desert ecosystem is fragile, following the principles of responsible tourism, including protecting the soil and carrying out your litter, is essential to preserve the beauty and pristine character of the area.