Bab Zangi Village

Bab Zangi is a village in Rayen District, Kerman County, Kerman Province. It lies on the slopes of Mount Hezar, in one of the highest inhabited areas of Iran. At an altitude of about 3,310 meters above sea level, it is known as the highest inhabited village in Iran, and life at such an altitude shows a different face of Kerman Province's nature. The climate is cold and mountainous: winters are very cold and snowy, and summers, especially the nights, are cool and sometimes cold. According to the 1385 (Solar Hijri) census, Bab Zangi had a population of 54 people in 10 households, and some residents live in the area all year round. The village's location near Hezar Peak and its wide views over the highlands are among the main features that make it a distinctive destination for nature and mountain lovers.

The nature around Bab Zangi, with its mountain valleys, high peaks and the region's distinctive vegetation, offers pristine and spectacular scenery. The Bab Zangi Valley is one of the green valleys of Mount Hezar, and together with the area's special climate, it makes a good setting for experiencing mountain nature. The village is also one of the access routes to Hezar Peak, and every year climbers planning to summit the peak begin their route from Bab Zangi. Hezar Peak, at 4,501 meters, is the highest peak in Kerman Province and the highest in the south of the country. Species such as wild pistachio (baneh), almond and arjan, along with a variety of medicinal plants, grow on its slopes. On a trip to this area, you can combine a visit to Bab Zangi with other attractions of Rayen District, including the historic Rayen Citadel, ancient plane trees, volcanic craters and mineral springs. Besides the nature, getting to know the way of life of the residents of this high-altitude village and enjoying a calm atmosphere far from the bustle of the city are further attractions of a trip to Bab Zangi.

To reach Bab Zangi, you need to travel from the town of Rayen toward the road leading to the village. Parts of this route are unpaved and mountainous, and in the cold seasons snowfall can make travel difficult or close the road for a time. Summer is the best time to visit the village and enjoy the cool air of the highlands, although it can be visited in every season, and tourists and climbers travel to the area at different times of the year. Because of the high altitude, a trip to Bab Zangi requires attention to weather conditions and carrying warm clothing, water, food and suitable equipment. While in the village, you should also respect the residents' lives and privacy, avoid entering private areas without permission, and help preserve the area's pristine nature and peaceful atmosphere by not leaving litter, not damaging vegetation and not disturbing the calm of the environment.