Qezqan Darreh

Qezqan Darreh is one of the most beautiful natural attractions of Dargaz County in Razavi Khorasan Province. It lies near the town of Lotfabad, right on the border with Turkmenistan. With its green hills, wide plains, eye-catching meadows and unspoiled nature, especially in spring, it is considered one of the most popular nature-tourism destinations in northeastern Iran. Because it borders the plains of Turkmenistan, Qezqan Darreh experiences spring earlier than many other parts of Khorasan, and during Nowruz it shows nature at its most striking. The name "Qezqan" comes from a Turkic word meaning "hot and scorching", which refers to the warm winds that blow from the Karakum Desert in summer.

The lush landscape, fertile soil and varied vegetation, including chamomile, astragalus (goat's thorn), thyme and other mountain plants, make this area a suitable habitat for wildlife and a summer pasture for nomads. The presence of nomadic communities, the production of dairy products and local handicrafts, and the Qezqan Darreh Nomadic and Rural Festival, held from 10 to 13 Farvardin, are among the region's most important cultural attractions. The area's closeness to attractions such as Tandoureh National Park, Shemkhal Valley, the Allahu Akbar Pass and mineral spring, the Qezlaq and Shadmineh caves, and the Lotfabad border market also doubles its value for tourists.

To reach Qezqan Darreh, first travel to Dargaz County and then to the town of Lotfabad, and from there follow the road to Qezqan Darreh village. You can drive to the village; after parking, you continue on foot through the meadows and green hills. The best time to visit Qezqan Darreh is spring, especially the Nowruz holidays and mid-Farvardin, when the area is at the peak of its greenery and blossoms. While visiting, you can help preserve this precious landscape by not leaving litter, not damaging the vegetation, respecting the nomads' way of life and keeping the natural peace.