Kaluts of Shahdad

The Shahdad Kaluts are among the most astonishing natural phenomena in Iran. They lie in Kerman Province, on the edge of the Lut Desert, near the town of Shahdad. These geological formations were shaped over thousands of years by intense wind and water erosion, creating a vast complex of natural structures that, from a distance, look like a huge city with countless towers and skyscrapers. For this reason they have become known as the "Clay City" or the "City of Ghosts." The extent of this natural megacity is impressive: it is about 145 kilometers long, between 70 and 80 kilometers wide, and covers more than 11,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest kaluts complexes in the world. The deep silence and eerie atmosphere of the area make for a different and unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Besides the giant kaluts, other natural features in this region add to its appeal. The "Shur River" (Rud-e Shur), the only permanent river in the depths of the Lut Desert, flows near this area. Its water is extremely salty and rich in minerals, and after a long course it reaches salt depressions. Around the region you can also see hexagonal shapes known as salt polygons, along with distinctive salt flats with unique structures that are rare of their kind. Vegetation here is very sparse: tamarisk bushes and nebkhas (small vegetated sand mounds) can be seen on the edges of the kaluts, but deeper inside, because of strong winds and the particular climate, there is practically no plant life. Together with the kaluts' changing colors, which range through shades of green, orange and red, these features create a unique landscape of both scientific and tourist interest, highly valued by nature lovers.

To reach the Shahdad Kaluts, take the Kerman–Bam road from the city of Kerman and, after about 35 kilometers, reach the Sirch area. Then turn onto the Shahdad road, pass the Shahdad–Golbaf junction, and continue toward Shahdad until you finally arrive at the kaluts area. The route to Sirch is a good highway, but the rest of the way is a mountain road with a single lane, so it requires careful driving. The best time to visit is autumn, winter and early spring, because in the hot seasons temperatures become extremely high and exhausting. To visit the deeper parts (the orange and red areas), it is essential to go with a guide and obtain a permit. Practicing responsible nature tourism is important when traveling to this region: carry enough water and equipment, avoid damaging the environment, do not leave any litter behind, and respect the local culture.