Shahdad
Kaluts are located in Lut desert (Dasht-e Lut) the 25th largest desert in
the world. Dasht-e Lut was inscribed to the UNESCO World
Heritage Sites list on July 17, 2016.
What does Kalut mean and how Kaluts came into being?
Kaluts are some rock bumps, located in the Lut desert, Actually Kalut
is made of two words: Kal+ lut, Kal means village in local dialects and Lut
refers to the area these villages are located; Lut desert.
The main cause of the formation of Kaluts is wind and water. In
Kerman, the 120-day winds are blowing from Sistan and have eroded the walls of
the rock buildings and created these natural attractions.
According to some experts, the salty rivers have more impact on
the Kaluts, which also flow into the deepest parts of Iran. The Salty River is
the only permanent river in the heart of the Lut Desert, originating from the
northern mountains of Birjand, and after crossing the winding path about 4
kilometers to the southeast, it reaches the salt mountain and salt mine pit.
The river's water is too salty, not unexpected, as it passes through the desert
and dissolves many salts.
How to reach the Shahdad Kalut?
To reach to Shahdad Kalut you have to arrive Nehbandan city to get
to Kerman - Bam road and after a bit of driving along this road, you will see a
signed road that will guide you to Shahdad Kalut, Kerman. The path to Sirch
road is a safe and secure highway, but then a mountain road is waiting for you.
You need authorizations to visit some parts of the Shahdad and Kalut
area.
When is the best season to visit Shahdad Kalut?
To visit all desert regions, autumn is the best time, the
temperature isn't that much high and the weather is more appropriate, Spring is
the other good time to visit Kalut.
What do you need when you visit the desert?
1- Mineral water 2- Snacks 3- Warm cloth for the night and cotton
cloths for day 4- Sun hats 5- Hiking boots 6- ID card 7- Sunglasses and
sunscreen are some necessary things you will need.
Why Shahdad area is so important, historically and naturally?
These natural structures are located parallel to the southeast of
the Dasht-e Kavir and are also listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It may be
interesting to know that a civilization that has been in the heart of Lut plain (Dasht-e Kavir) for more than 5,000 years is near the cliffs of Shahdad. According to
experts and archaeologists, many works, including pottery, statues, and
ornaments, have been found in the area, the oldest work found in the heart of
the desert in the Shahdad Valley. With all these interpretations, the Shahdad
region is both a unique phenomenon and historically significant.
Where to stay in Shahdad Kalut?
For those who want to stay near Shahdad Kalut in Kerman, some
camps have been set up and travelers can easily access the amenities they need.
This camp is the only desert camp in Lut and is built between several cliffs in
the north and south and is not damaged by wind and sandstorms. The dome-shaped
pergolas are the main reason for the camp's popularity in the area. You
shouldn't expect a lot from a desert camp, although it would be a unique and
not repeatable experience.
The area is a little confusing so it is necessary to have a local
guide or somebody who knows the region with you.