Visiting Places in Dezful; From Shoui Waterfall to Toviran Valley
Dezful is considered one of the oldest cities in the world, located in the Khuzestan province of Iran. This ancient city boasts a rich cultural heritage, fascinating natural attractions, and valuable historical sites. The range of attractions in Dezful is so extensive that it can cater to any interest and preference. From enthusiasts of historical and ancient artifacts to those who love natural wonders and pristine landscapes, this city has something for everyone. Moreover, the flow of the Dez River through the city creates breathtaking views, turning Dezful into one of the most attractive cities in Iran. In this article, we will take you to the southern part of the country, to Khuzestan, to explore more about the captivating places in Dezful.
Shoui Waterfall
Shoui Waterfall, with an impressive height of about 85 meters, is one of the largest waterfalls in Iran. This magnificent waterfall is located approximately 100 kilometers away from Dezful. The journey to reach this waterfall is so captivating and scenic that you won’t get tired of witnessing its beauty, making you want to continue your path. Shoui Waterfall is registered as a national heritage of Iran.
Address: Shoui District, Dezful
Dezful Water Mills
Dezful Water Mills are a collection of water structures on the Dez River’s bed that were used as dams and mills in the past. Their history dates back to the Safavid and Qajar periods. Materials such as riverbed stone and brick with Sarooj mortar were used in constructing these mills. The remains of these mills are located in three sections along the Dez River. The first section is in the upper part, in the Dez Riverside Park; the second section is next to the new Dezful bridge, and the third section is beside the historical Dezful bridge.
Address: Dezful, South of Dez Recreational Park, Next to the new Dezful Bridge, Beside the historical Dezful Bridge
Yaghoub Layth Safar Tomb
Yaghoub Layth Safar, the founder of the Safavid dynasty, was the first Iranian ruler who reinstated the Persian language as the official language of Iran, 200 years after the Islamic conquest. No one in the court was allowed to speak any language other than Persian. He made significant efforts to free parts of Iran from the Abbasid caliphate and eventually passed away in 165 AH in Jondishapur Dezful. Now, the tomb of Yaghoub Layth Safar is a four-dome structure with a conical dome, located near the ancient Jondishapur area in Islam Abad village, 12 kilometers on the road from Dezful to Shushtar.
Address: 10 kilometers on the road from Dezful to Shushtar, Shah Abu al-Qasim Village (Shah Abad)
Dez River and Kale Ali Beach Recreation Area
Dez River is one of the clearest rivers in Iran, originating from Zar Kuh Bakhtiari and joining the Karun River after passing through Dezful towards the east of Shushtar. Its clear and clean water attracts numerous tourists annually. Along the Dez River, there are several recreational areas, with Kale Ali Beach being the most popular, offering suitable facilities for tourists.
Address: North of Dezful, South of Dez Dam
Kool Khersoon Valley (Arvah Valley)
Kool Khersoon Valley is a fascinating and unusual valley that seems to have come out of a movie. With every step in this mysterious valley, extraordinary and different landscapes unfold before your eyes. Sometimes the passage in this valley becomes so narrow that only one person can pass through.
The walls on both sides sometimes converge above your head, and only a narrow opening is seen from above, giving it a terrifying appearance. This valley, in the end, leads to the Dez River, and from there, you can return to dry land by boat or swimming. If you are looking for an adventurous and thrilling journey, Kool Khersoon is the best choice.
Ancient Mounds of Choghamish
The history of the ancient city of Choghamish dates back to approximately 50 centuries before Christ, to the prehistoric era before the invention of writing. Choghamish is where writing and scripts first appeared in Iran. The valuable and ancient mounds of Choghamish hold treasures from various civilizations, including the Sasanians, Parthians, and Elamites, and are currently listed as national heritage sites in Iran.
Address: South of Dezful
Imamzadeh Roodband Shrine
Known as “Sultan Ali Siyahpoosh” or “Pir Roodband,” Ali Safavi, the grandson of Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardabili and the great-grandfather of Shah Ismail Safavi, traveled to Dezful in ancient times. Through miraculous acts, he invited the people of Dezful to the Shia faith. Today, his shrine has become a significant pilgrimage site in Dezful.
Address: Dezful, Saheli Street
Shadab Castle
Shadab Castle is one of the largest natural castles in Iran, situated in the heart of the mountains. It spans 10 kilometers in length and 4 kilometers in width, standing out from many other structures with castle names. The walls of this castle were formed during the fourth geological era due to a uniform and vertical collapse of the walls and erosion caused by the river’s flow.
Address: Dezful, Shadab Castle Park
Shahyoun Lake
Shahyoun Lake is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful lakes you will ever see in your life, not only in Iran but globally. This extraordinary lake emerged behind two lush and picturesque mountains, providing a breathtaking view for the Shahyoun region.
This lake is ideal for water sports and activities such as boating, water skiing, and swimming. The presence of small and large islands covered with dense forests adds a mesmerizing touch to the lake.
Address: 23 kilometers northeast of Andimeshk, near the village of Pamnar
Historical House of Suzangar
The historical house of Suzangar is a relic from the Qajar period and one of Dezful’s historical attractions in the Qaleh neighborhood. This historical house is built from bricks, and its skilled architect created a unique combination by carving the bricks into various sizes and shapes, a rarity that you might not have seen elsewhere.
Address: Dezful, Miandareh neighborhood
Old Bazaar of Dezful
The Old Bazaar or “Qadeem Dezful” consists of four sections: the Blacksmiths’ Bazaar, the Cloth Merchants’ Bazaar, the Retailers’ Bazaar, and the Blacksmiths’ Market. Within the bazaar, there is a historical caravanserai that is quite fascinating. The oldest existing structure in the bazaar is the Sheikh Isma’il Qasr, dating back to the sixth century AH.
Address: Dezful, Imam Khomeini Street North
Blessed Shrine of Sabz Ghaba
“Seyed Mohammad Sabz Ghaba,” one of the descendants of Imam Musa ibn Ja’far, has his shrine located in the center of Dezful. The original structure of the Sabz Ghaba shrine belongs to the Timurid and Seljuk periods, evolving and expanding in the modern era with the addition of a beautiful dome.
Address: Dezful, Imam Khomeini Street North
Folklore Museum of Dezful (Kernasion Bath)
Kernasion Bath, a structure from the Qajar period, transformed into the Folklore Museum of Dezful after renovation in 2006. Here, visitors can get acquainted with various traditional occupations in Dezful.
Address: Dezful, Kernasion neighborhood
Mianeh Lake
Situated on the road between Sardasht and Shahyoun in the north of Dezful, the delightful Mianeh Lake is located behind the earthen dam of Palangan. It is considered one of Dezful’s beautiful spots for nature enthusiasts.
Address: North of Dezful, Mianeh Road
Dezful’s Cooling Holes (Koots)
Dezful’s cooling holes are handcrafted cooling spots created by ancient humans, resembling cave-like hollows dug beside the Dezful River. These koots serve as cooling retreats during hot days in the Khuzestan region, near the flowing Dez River.
Address: Dezful, Mokhtar Castle
Lious Village
If you visit Dezful, do not miss the chance to explore Lious Village. This stone-built village is among the few stone villages in the country that has preserved its traditional architecture and customs over time. The village’s houses, streets, surrounding mountains, and rivers create mesmerizing landscapes that captivate any observer.
Address: 73 kilometers north of Dezful, Sardasht Region
Sufi Ahmad Shrine
One of the natural and scenic attractions in the north of Dezful, located in the Shahyoun region, is the Sufi Ahmad Shrine. Nestled amidst trees and mountains, this rare and untouched spot provides captivating and elusive views. The proximity to the Dez River offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing in the area.
Noorabad Village
The primary feature of Noorabad village is its beautiful waterfall. Noorabad is a charming village surrounded by pomegranate orchards, numerous springs, fields of narcissus flowers, valuable historical structures, and a 20-meter waterfall. The Noorabad waterfall is one of the most attractive points in the village, showcasing its beauty in every season. Throughout the year, many mountaineering groups visit the village to witness this magnificent waterfall.
Hazqeil Prophet Mausoleum
Hazqeil is one of the prophets of the Children of Israel mentioned in Islamic traditions. Although his name is not mentioned in the Quran, some Quranic interpreters claim there is a reference to him in one of the verses of Surah Al-Baqarah. The mausoleum of Hazqeil is a simple brick structure with a small courtyard, an uncomplicated porch, and a dome of the six-arch style.
Address: Dezful, Shariati Street, Ganjeshki Alley, next to Seyyed Noorollah Mosque
Pamnar Village
Situated in the midst of the Zagros mountain range, overlooking the Dez Dam Lake, the beautiful and captivating Pamnar Village is located 25 kilometers north of Dezful. Pamnar Village, covering an area of 57 hectares, has attracted many tourists due to its stunning landscapes, abundant cedar trees, numerous springs, awe-inspiring valleys, and the vibrant Pamnar Natural Castle, as well as its proximity to Lake Shahyoun.
Tizno Historical House
If you’re visiting Dezful, make sure to allocate time to explore one of its most attractive houses, the Tizno Historical House. Located in the Qaleh neighborhood, this house showcases a complete example of Dezful’s traditional architecture. Tizno Historical House dates back to the Safavid era, with modifications made during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods.
Address: Dezful, East side of Qaleh Main Square
Shaghayegh Forest Park
During your trip to Dezful, if you seek a place away from the hustle and bustle, surrounded by nature, Shaghayegh Forest Park is highly recommended. Situated in a pristine and beautiful environment, this park offers magnificent views. Additionally, it provides various recreational and welfare facilities.
Address: North of Dezful, Sardasht Road
Old Bridge of Dezful
The Old Bridge of Dezful, claimed to be the oldest bridge globally, is the main historical attraction of Dezful. This bridge connects the western and eastern regions of the city, once serving as a communication route between the Jondi Shapur region and the land of Mesopotamia. Built by order of Shapur I, the Sasanian emperor, in 263 AD, it still stands as a testament to its original form, adding beauty to Dezful and symbolizing the pride of our land.
Address: Dez River, between Rahna Coastal Garden and Valiasr Garden
Dezful Cultural and Cinematic Complex
The Dezful Cultural and Cinematic Complex is one of the most beautiful attractions in Dezful. Its Iranian and Islamic architecture, the use of brick facades, glazed tiles, modern windcatchers, and the utilization of new domed ceilings make it a valuable and beautiful structure in our country.
The complex includes separate screening halls, various booths, filmmaking workshops, traditional teahouses, and recreational and dining facilities.
Address: Dezful, Biat Street
Mohammad ibn Ja’far Tayyar Shrine
The Mohammad ibn Ja’far Tayyar Shrine is a relic from the Timurid period, considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Dezful. Located 5 kilometers from the city, the mausoleum features a 12-arch dome adorned with green and monochrome tiles, presenting a remarkably beautiful appearance.
Address: Dezful, Mohammad ibn Ja’far Tayyar neighborhood
Jameh Mosque of Dezful
The Jameh Mosque of Dezful is among the early Islamic mosques built in the third century of the Islamic calendar. The mosque’s architecture is influenced by the principles of the “Kakh-e Iwan Karkheh,” and its current form, featuring four iwans, dates back to the mid-Safavid period.
Address: Dezful, Imam Khomeini Street North
Shah Rokn al-Din Shrine
The Shah Rokn al-Din Shrine is located in the heart of the old fabric of Dezful, near Taleghani Street. The shrine belongs to “Baha al-Din,” also known as “Baba Rokn al-Din Wali” or “Shah Rokn al-Din,” an 8th-century mystic and renowned ascetic. Shah Rokn al-Din is said to have possessed miracles and earned respect from the city and surrounding villages. The shrine’s tomb is adorned with a blue dome decorated with beautiful tiles. Two decorative brick flowerpots with tiles are placed in front of the entrance door.
Near the shrine, you can find an old mosque, a historic bathhouse, and an old seminary. The greenery around the shrine has transformed the area into a pleasant and tranquil space, adding to the charm of Dezful’s old texture.
Chal Kandi
Chal Kandi is the name of a valley through which the water exits from the Dez Dam. The Chal Kandi valley, with its high water depth, tall walls on both sides, cool breeze, and pleasant atmosphere in the summer, is popular among tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Address: 18 kilometers north of the northern part of Dezful
Tubiron Valley
Tubiron Valley is one of the amazing and pristine attractions of Dezful during the warm seasons. Formed by thousands of years of water erosion from seasonal rains in the higher parts, the valley features abundant wild grapevines, fig trees, Shavoshan leaves, waterfalls, and streams, creating extraordinary beauty that captivates every observer.
The valley has two waterfalls that are particularly popular among tourists. “Tu” in the Dezful dialect means “heat,” and “Tubiron” means a place that dispels heat. Despite temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in Dezful during the warm seasons, you can enjoy temperatures below 30 degrees Celsius with a cool breeze and a pleasant atmosphere in this valley.
Address: 20 kilometers north of Dezful
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best tourist attractions in Dezful?
Shooy Waterfall, Dezful Water Mills, Yaghoub Layth Safaari Shrine, Dez River, and Kale Ali Coastal Recreation Area are among the notable tourist attractions in Dezful.
How old is the ancient city of Choghamish?
The ancient city of Choghamish dates back approximately 50 centuries before the Common Era, to the prehistoric period before the invention of writing.
