Most people visiting Iran spend their time in this country exploring ancient Persian ruins, palaces, and mosques, but the nature of this country is as spectacular as its architecture. One of the most breathtaking places you can explore during your visit is the geological masterpiece, known by the name Badab-e Surt.
Located in Mazandaran Province near the tiny village of Orost, Badab-e Surt isn’t exactly easy to reach, but it’s definitely worth the trip. The terraced hot springs were formed during the Pleistocene and Pliocene periods, and only a handful of similar geological formations are still in existence.
Badab-e Surt came to life after two mineral hot springs of different characteristics came together. The first contains salty water that supposedly has healing properties, while the second spews sour water that leads to eye-catching orange tints.
As the water from the two distinct mineral springs poured over the sedimentary rocks for thousands of years, it formed a number of iridescent pools that come in different shades of orange, red, and yellow. The rocks hardened over time, taking their current staircase shape, and the color changes are really a sight to behold if you visit Badab-e Surt around sunrise or sunset.
