Kish, the Pearl of the Persian Gulf
Kish Island, a 91.5 square kilometer resort in the Persian Gulf, is a unique blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and modern amenities. The island, known as the “Pearl of the Persian Gulf” and the first free trade-industrial area of the country, hosts over 58 hotels and residential complexes, accommodating thousands of visitors daily. Annually attracting about 1.5 million visitors, it was ranked among the world’s most beautiful islands by The New York Times in 2010.
The best time to visit Kish Island depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. For those interested in swimming and enjoying the island’s attractions, the ideal period is from mid-fall to the end of April. During these months, the weather is temperate, with milder sun intensity, providing a pleasant environment for extended swimming without the risk of sunburn. However, be aware that some days may be chillier, affecting sea temperatures.
Late fall and mid-winter may experience sudden rainstorms, making beach activities challenging. Additionally, traveling in late February to late March, coinciding with the Iranian New Year (Nowruz), can result in crowded conditions due to increased tourism.
Another appealing time to explore Kish is during the autumn season, particularly in mid-October to mid-December (Aban and Azar months). During this period, summer humidity decreases, and winter’s cold has not set in yet. The winds are milder, offering a crisp and pleasant ambiance for those who appreciate the autumnal charm. Consider your preferences and plan accordingly to make the most of your visit to Kish Island.
Kish enjoys a desert climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Winter temperatures range between 9 to 22 degrees Celsius, ideal for those seeking a retreat from hotter climates.
Kariz means aqueduct in Farsi, and the art of carving aqueducts in Iran dates back to 6000 years ago. This ancient tradition has evolved from a survival necessity into an architectural marvel. Located 16 meters underground, its ceilings, filled with fossils, shells, and corals dating back 270 to 570 million years, make Kariz unique. It is the only structure with a natural coral and shell ceiling, located on the world’s only coral island. The Kariz-e Kish complex was on the verge of destruction until Engineer Haji Hosseini, an Iranian residing in Germany, took it upon himself to rejuvenate this historical site. His efforts have transformed it into a much-visited tourist destination, now featuring a traditional restaurant, a small bazaar, and a museum at the ground level.
The Kariz-e Kish complex is unique due to its composition of natural coral and shells. Spanning 15 kilometers long, 10,000 square meters wide, and 14 meters deep, it showcases ancient fossils and offers a cool underground temperature, providing a glimpse into the region’s past and its natural resources.
Kerman offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, the city caters to all types of travelers.
For those seeking luxury, Kerman’s high-end hotels offer exquisite rooms, top-notch amenities, and exceptional service. These hotels often feature traditional Persian architecture and decor, providing an immersive cultural experience.
Budget travellers can opt for hostels or guesthouses, which offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. These establishments are ideal for meeting fellow travelers and experiencing local hospitality.
Many hotels and hostels are located near Kerman’s major attractions, making it convenient for visitors to explore the city. Whether you’re looking for a lavish stay or a cozy, budget-friendly option, Kerman has something to offer.
Located in Mirmohana, Olympic Square on Kish Island, Kariz-e Kish is surrounded by other attractions such as The Ancient Town of Harireh, Dolphin Park Complex, and several of Kish’s beaches, making it a central point for tourists exploring the island.
Harireh is an ancient city dating back to the 8th century, located on Kish Island in present-day Iran. Positioned at the center of the island’s northern coast, it spans an area of approximately 3 square kilometers. Believed to have been initially constructed between the late Sasanid period and the early Islamic era, Harireh gained prominence during the periods of the Saljuks and Atavakan of Fars. The Iranian Cultural Heritage Organization has authenticated Harireh’s age, confirming it to be at least 800 years old.
Harireh is thought to be the town referenced by the renowned Iranian poet Saadi in his book Gulistan. Both Iranian and Arab historians have mentioned the town’s location on the island, placing it precisely in the middle of the northern part, aligning with the current ruins that stand as a testament to its historical significance.
The ruins of the ancient city of Harireh cover about 120 hectares, indicating it once was a large, populated city. What remains today is its urban architecture, with some stone arches and roofs still intact. Harireh’s port city had a unique open architecture, different from the defensive styles of other historical cities in Iran. Its location on the northern coast, with its elevated rocky shore and calm sea, was a natural choice for a city.
The Greek ship in Kish is a notable tourist attraction with an intriguing history. Originally built by William Hamilton’s company in Glasgow in 1943, the ship, initially named Empire Trumpet, underwent ownership changes before ending up with a Greek owner. Weighing 7061 tons and measuring over 136 meters in length, it ran aground near Bago village on August 4, 1966. The ship’s subsequent names included Naturalist, Kourosh-e Parsi, Hamadan, and finally, Khoula F.
The circumstances surrounding the sinking of the Greek ship remain a mystery, leading to various speculations. Contrary to popular belief that it is a Portuguese ship, the vessel is, indeed, Greek-owned and is situated on the island of Kish. Over the years, it has transformed into a popular tourist attraction. For those interested in visiting this captivating structure in Kish, the Greek ship is located on Gorob Street, Gorob Square, Kish, within the Gorob Beach Park area.
The ship’s history is marked by various changes in ownership and names. Built in 1943 by the William Hamilton company in Scotland, initially weighing 7061 tons and measuring 136 meters, it was first purchased by the Ministry of War Transport in London in 1943 and named Empire Trumpet. In 1946, the Charnet Steamship Company in Liverpool acquired it, renaming it the Naturalist. After 13 years of service, it was sold to Iranians in London in 1959 and renamed Korosh Parsi. In 1965, the Iran Shipping Company in Khorramshahr bought the ship, naming it Hamedan. A Greek businessman, P. Frangoulis, made the final purchase, renaming it Khoula F.
In the summer of 1345 AH, the ship, now returning to Greece, encountered difficulties and sank off the shores of Kish Island. Efforts were made for 80 days to salvage the ship, which carried valuable oil cargo, but due to its weight, no success was achieved. Passengers eventually had to abandon the ship, leaving it stranded on Kish Island, where it remains today.
The Greek ship on Kish Island has gained significant popularity as a tourist attraction in recent years. To enhance the visitor experience, various recreational facilities and services have been added to the area. When you visit, you can not only explore the ship’s deck and enjoy breathtaking sunsets but also make use of the 60,000 square meters beach park, cafes, amphitheater, Iranian and Lebanese restaurants, skate rental stations, and more in the vicinity.
Although it was once possible to explore the inside of the Greek ship with a diving suit, the excessive erosion has made this feature unavailable. However, visiting the ship itself is free of charge, allowing most visitors to enjoy the scenic seaside and capture beautiful sunset moments, making it a perfect spot for photography. The Greek ship stands out as a true attraction on Kish Island, attracting numerous tourists.
Kish Island, situated in the Persian Gulf, stands as one of Iran’s natural wonders. Kish’s nature is one-of-a-kind, featuring diverse wildlife, plants, and native trees. The island’s surface is covered with coral sands that gleam in the sunlight, creating a unique landscape.
The island’s breathtaking beaches, renowned for their natural beauty and recreational amenities, serve as a compelling reason to visit. The silvery sands, a result of the island’s coral composition, create a stunning visual spectacle. The coastal waters are incredibly clear, thanks to the coral reefs, making Kish’s beaches among the safest in the world.
Nearby Kariz-e Kish, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining experiences at restaurants like Koohe Nour, Foodland, Ziafeh Café, Royal Star, ChiChiz Fast-food, Traditional Garden, and Pamador Fast-food. These eateries offer an array of delicious meals suitable for different tastes, enhancing the tourist experience around this historical site.
The traditional dishes of Kish Island offer a rich culinary experience that reflects the region’s cultural and geographical influences. Here are some of the most famous traditional dishes of Kish:
This dish features fresh fish from the Persian Gulf, seasoned with Arabic spices and either grilled or fried. The use of Arabic spices gives it a distinctive and delicious flavor, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists.
A unique soup prepared by combining fish with local vegetables, garlic, and other seasonings. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the abundance of seafood in the region.
