The first image that the name Mashhad evokes is a flock of doves soaring over the golden dome of Imam Reza’s Shrine. There is no denying that the epic complex that includes Goharshad Mosque and the Tomb of Sheikh Bahai as well as the shrine of Ali ibn Musa ar-Rida, is by far the most important spot in the city.
However, the wealth of Mashhad tourist attractions goes beyond its glorious shrine. Mashhad is the capital of Razavi Khorasan province, a vast and beautiful region famous for the production of the best saffron in the world. Nature is surprisingly multifaceted in Khorasan; from the snow-capped peaks of Binaloud to expansive green valleys in Chalidarreh, nature opens its generous bosom to anyone who seeks a respite from the turmoil and tension of the city life. Chalidarreh is an immensely popular recreational complex 33 km east of Mashhad near the town of Torqabeh. To irrigate the vast farms near the town, a dam was built near Torqabeh in a region called Chalidarreh. But the huge lake that formed behind the dam has many other functions besides watering the farmlands. Given the unique geographical location of the region which is an amazing combination of mountains, green valleys and an artificial lake, many entertainment facilities have been established in the recent years. First, we have the wonderful water activities practiced in the lake. These encompass fairly conventional activities such as fishing and boating and more exciting features such as scuba diving and motor boating. There is also a spa where you are massaged and pedicured with a magical species of fish native to the Middle-East called Garra rufa (Doctor Fish). Then we have the more adventurous activities such as the phenomenal chairlift ride over the lake and the mountains. For the daredevils, there is a zip-line center where they can fly over the lake like Superman! If even that proves insufficient for some, a visit to the bungee jumping center of Chalidarreh will certainly provide them with enough dose of adrenalin! But not everything is about crazy rides and water activities. There is ample space around the lake for camping and spending time with friends and family. If you are travelling with one of Mashhad day tours, they will take care of the transportation. But if you are on your own, a taxi ride from any of Mashhad hostels and hotels to Chalidarreh shouldn’t cost you more than 12 USD.
Chalidarreh is a recreational region ideal for the warm months of the year. What do Mashhad tours offer for the cold season? They invite you to a memorable skiing experience in the heights Binaloud, the largest mountain chain in Khorasan.
Coming across a well-equipped ski resort in the east of Iran with perfect powder and amazing slopes seems incredible for most tourists. But Shirbad Ski Resort is a concrete proof of such a magical place. The resort lies 65 km east of Mashhad at the foothills of Shirbad, the highest peak in Eastern Iran. Everything needed for a memorable day of skiing is available here. You don’t even need to bring heavy and cumbersome ski gears, since there is a ski rental on the spot with complete sets of equipment. The lack of accommodation in the resort is a minor issue that soon will be tackled with the establishment of a hotel and restaurant. You can take a taxi from Mashhad to take you to Shirbad. The cost of the ride will be between 20 to 25 USD.
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