Bonab Forest, Arsanjan

Bonab Forest is located in Fars Province, in Arsanjan County, at the entrance to the town of Arsanjan. It lies more than 100 kilometers northeast of Shiraz, on the southern slopes of the Zagros Mountains. With its mild climate and stunning natural scenery, Bonab Forest has become one of the region's natural and tourist attractions. Combining a mountain setting with towering trees, the area enjoys pleasant weather in every season of the year.

The vegetation of Bonab Forest includes wild pistachio (bane), wild almond, kahkam (Persian maple) and arjan (wild almond) trees. In the northwest of the forest, an ancient wild pistachio tree stands on top of a rock about six meters high, and is known as the "Green Pearl of Arsanjan." By splitting the rock and sending its roots deep inside it, the tree has created a rare and striking sight.

To reach Bonab Forest, take the Marvdasht–Saadat Shahr highway and then the Saadat Shahr–Arsanjan highway to the entrance of Arsanjan County. The best time to visit the forest is spring, when the mountain slopes are lush and green and nature comes back to life. When visiting the area, practicing responsible nature tourism, such as picking up litter and respecting the environment, is essential to preserving this natural treasure.