Qaleh Bala Among Iran’s 500 Selected Tourism Villages
The head of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department of Shahroud County has announced that the historic village of Qaleh Bala has been included among Iran’s 500 selected tourism villages. He described the achievement as a reflection of the village’s exceptional potential in areas such as its distinctive terraced architecture, rich biodiversity, and preservation of local authenticity—qualities that have now established Qaleh Bala as a prominent destination on Iran’s tourism map.
Seyed Mohammad-Sadegh Razvian said that Qaleh Bala has been selected for inclusion in Iran’s list of 500 tourism villages due to its remarkable features, including its historic terraced fabric, resilient vernacular architecture, and unique natural landscapes. He noted that this recognition demonstrates the village’s significant potential for rural tourism and nature-based travel—potential that has been preserved and strengthened through the commitment and insight of the local community and tourism stakeholders.
Referring to the village’s strategic connection with Touran National Park, the head of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department of Shahroud County added that Qaleh Bala’s proximity to one of Iran’s most valuable biosphere reserves and wildlife habitats presents a golden opportunity for the development of wildlife tourism. In recent years, this potential has attracted growing numbers of domestic and international visitors and has played a significant role in introducing eastern Semnan Province as a major nature-tourism destination in Iran.
He also highlighted measures taken to further develop this internationally significant destination, stating that in recent years, the development of quality-standard eco-lodges, the strengthening of tourism infrastructure, and a focus on revitalizing traditional handicrafts and promoting organic products have helped establish a successful model of sustainable tourism in Qaleh Bala.
Razvian emphasized that these sustained efforts led the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts to place Qaleh Bala among its priorities for rural tourism development programs.
The head of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department of Shahroud County further explained that inclusion on this list marks a turning point in attracting greater attention to infrastructure development, providing comprehensive support for local tourism entrepreneurs, and introducing the diverse cultural, historical, and natural dimensions of this historic village at both national and international levels.
“We believe this recognition is also an affirmation of the strong commitment of the people of Qaleh Bala to preserving their cultural authenticity while making wise and responsible use of their natural heritage,” he said.
He concluded: “Qaleh Bala is more than just a village. It is a model of harmonious coexistence between people, art, and nature. By preserving these authentic values, the village is confidently moving toward sustainable development. The Shahroud Cultural Heritage Department is fully committed to supporting this upward trajectory and working to establish Qaleh Bala as a recognized name on the international tourism village map.