Golian Village, Shirvan

Golian is a mountain village in the Central District of Shirvan County, North Khorasan Province, about 23 km south of the city of Shirvan. It is considered one of the county's target villages for tourism. Set in a valley, the village has a distinctive and attractive character, with terraced housing, a full-flowing river, orchards, springs and mountain views. Golian is one of the region's old villages, and its historical remains point to a long history of settlement. The climate is semi-arid, cold and mountainous, and the Golian River, which supplies the water the area needs, has played a part in the local farming and orchard cultivation. Barley, wheat, potatoes, onions, grapes and walnuts are among the area's products. Alongside farming and orcharding, livestock herding, beekeeping and trout farming are also part of the villagers' economic activities.

Golian's natural and historical attractions have made it one of the more notable tourist destinations south of Shirvan. The Golian River, summer pasture orchards, permanent springs, Kafar Ghaleh Cave, the tomb of Baba Tavakkol Golianі, the Gabrkhaneh (Zoroastrian house), the old congregational mosque and the remains of historical towers and walls are among the sights in and around the village. Kafar Ghaleh Cave lies about five kilometres from Golian, roughly 50 metres above the valley floor, and the remains around it suggest it was once used as a dwelling and shelter. The tomb of Baba Tavakkol Golianі stands beside the river in the central part of the village and is attributed to one of the sheikhs and mystics of the 4th century AH. The Estarkhi Waterfall, also known as Shar-Shar, lies near the village in the Estarkhi area. At about 20 metres high, it is one of the region's outstanding natural attractions. Alongside its nature and historical sites, carpet weaving and kilim weaving are also part of Golian's handicrafts and cultural heritage.

To reach Golian, travel south from the city of Shirvan and take the road to the villages of Golian District; the village is about 23 km south of Shirvan. The best time to visit Golian is spring and summer, when the mountain air in the village is more pleasant and the orchards, springs and surrounding countryside are at their best for exploring. Nature lovers can walk and hike along the village's paths and the surrounding valleys, and follow the region's nature trails to sights such as Kafar Ghaleh Cave and the Estarkhi Waterfall. On this trip, avoid entering rocky routes and caves without suitable equipment. Help protect Golian's nature and heritage by respecting the boundaries of orchards and fields, not leaving litter, not damaging vegetation or historical remains, and keeping the peace of the environment.