Chah Komeh Protected Area

Chah Komeh Protected Area is one of the most important nature reserves in Kerman Province, located northwest of Zarand County and southwest of Kuhbanan. Covering about 73,000 hectares, it was placed under the protection of the Department of Environment in 2009 (1388 SH), and thanks to its topographic and climatic diversity, it holds a special place among Iran's protected areas. Its elevation ranges from 1,450 meters in the plains to more than 2,000 meters in mountain heights such as Mount Sarduieh, creating varied living conditions for many species of plants and animals.

The vegetation of Chah Komeh Protected Area is semi-arid mountain type, with species such as wormwood (artemisia), thyme, anemone, ephedra (hoom), kahkam, wild almond, qeych, wild pistachio (baneh) and juniper. This plant diversity has made the area a suitable habitat for notable animals such as the leopard, Asiatic cheetah, wild goat and ibex, wild sheep (ram and ewe), wolf, fox, jackal and hare. Birds such as the chukar partridge, see-see partridge, various kinds of larks, wild pigeon, steppe eagle, kestrel, falcon and sparrowhawk can also be seen in this ecosystem, which further increases its conservation value.

The climate of the area is hot and semi-arid, and the best time to visit Chah Komeh Protected Area is spring and early autumn, when the mild weather and green vegetation make the landscape especially beautiful. The area can be reached by the roads of Zarand or Kuhbanan counties. Given the ecological importance of this region, visitors should follow the principles of responsible nature tourism and avoid harming wildlife, polluting the environment or entering sensitive zones, so that this natural treasure remains sustainable for future generations.