Bagh-e Keshmir Protected Area

A Pristine Natural Gem in the Heart of Eastern Iran

Ability level Beginner

Ability level: Beginner

Bagh-e Keshmir Protected Area is one of Iran's most valuable natural areas. It lies in Razavi Khorasan Province, about 55 kilometres north of the city of Torbat-e Jam. Covering roughly 20,299 hectares of mountainous, hilly terrain, the area is rich in biodiversity and is regarded as one of the country's important genetic reserves. Besides its official place on the Department of Environment's list of protected areas, Bagh-e Keshmir is especially significant in the natural landscape of eastern Iran because of its wild pistachio forests. The area was officially designated a protected area on 15 Dey 1378 under Resolution No. 660. A village of the same name lies within the area, with a population of about 2,500, showing village life alongside unspoiled nature.

From an environmental point of view, Bagh-e Keshmir holds rich and varied vegetation, including wild pistachio forests, almond, wormwood (artemisia), thyme, kakuti (wild mountain thyme), wild cumin, hawthorn, wild rue (esfand) and plantain, all of which grow in this mountain climate. This variety of plants provides a suitable habitat for animals such as wild sheep (urial and mouflon), wild boar, wolf, fox, jackal and wildcat, and the area is home to many birds, including chukar partridge, see-see partridge, common quail, falcon, goldfinch and eagle. A series of natural springs also flows through the area. They help sustain the vegetation and also create a striking scene of water and rock in this mountain landscape.

To reach Bagh-e Keshmir Protected Area, the usual route runs north from Torbat-e Jam along village roads and then dirt tracks, which finally lead to the area's designated entrances. Because of the mountainous terrain and seasonal conditions, these routes are easier and safer to drive in an SUV. The best time to visit is spring and summer, when the vegetation is at its greenest, the springs are fuller, and the mild mountain weather is ideal for walking and nature trips along the footpaths. While visiting Bagh-e Keshmir, practising responsible nature tourism plays an essential role in protecting this valuable ecosystem and keeping visitors safe. This means not lighting fires, taking all your rubbish with you, and respecting wildlife habitats and native vegetation.

Written by زهرا لنگری Last updated 06 Oct 2026