Khezri Dasht-e Bayaz Stone Bridge

The Khezri Dasht-e Bayaz Stone Bridge is one of the most pristine natural attractions in South Khorasan Province. It lies in Qaenat County, about 12 kilometres north of the town of Khezri Dasht-e Bayaz and 2 kilometres northeast of the village of Saghuri. This natural feature not only makes a striking sight amid the mountain and plain, but is also well worth visiting for travellers, and it is considered one of the lesser-seen attractions of eastern Iran. The rock structure is roughly 30 metres long and about 20 metres high. It stands out alongside several small and large natural caves in the area, which are home to birds of prey, especially wild pigeons.

In the local dialect, the bridge is also known as "Taq-e Khoda" (the Arch of God) and "Pol-e Sangi-ye Farsan" (the Farsan Stone Bridge). Its unique beauty has given rise to many local stories and beliefs. The formation is in fact the remains of the roof of a huge natural cave, which took on its bridge-like shape through erosion and earthquakes, creating a one-of-a-kind landscape. The caves beside the stone bridge add to the area's appeal and offer a chance for mindful nature tourism in the arid and semi-arid climate of eastern Iran. Visitors can explore the rock structure and the surrounding caves and enjoy the open landscapes of Dasht-e Bayaz.

To reach the Khezri Dasht-e Bayaz Stone Bridge, first get to the town of Khezri Dasht-e Bayaz and then head towards the village of Saghuri. The road is suitable for private cars up to near the mountain, and the rest of the route usually has to be covered on foot, which takes between about 45 minutes and an hour and a half depending on your pace. The best time to visit this natural attraction is from spring to early autumn, when the temperature and weather are more favourable and the access route is safer. Visitors are advised to respect the environment during their visit, avoid making noise or disturbing the silence of nature, and take their litter with them so that this unspoiled area is preserved.