Tehran – Iran is scheduled to hold its biggest ecotourism gathering (“Ordibehesht 31”) on May 21, bringing together hundreds of ecolodge managers, government officials and international representatives to celebrate and promote sustainable tourism.
Yabar Abili, who presides the Iranian Ecolodge Operators Association, announced that the event is scheduled for Ordibehesht 31 in Karman province. The initiative follows the recent designation as Iran’s National Environment Day on May 21. Despite official recognition, no celebration event took place in 2024, prompting organizers to plan a large gathering next year.
The event is expected to attract 500-700 ecolodge managers and associated officials across the country. The invitation has also been extended to foreign ambassadors and UN tourism representatives (formerly known as the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Among the expected guests are the head of the United Nations Tourism Rural Tourism Registration Division. They may conduct specialized workshops on the registration of Iranian villages to become globally recognized.
Yabar Abiri, director of the Iranian Ecolodge Operators Association
Additionally, specially designed trains run by the private sector will transport 300-400 participants from Tehran to Karman. With customized decorations and cultural elements, the train stops at Isfahan and Yazd, offering passengers the opportunity to explore other historic cities along the way. Additionally, traditional performance groups will entertain guests throughout the journey and create dynamic cultural experiences.
With strong support from the Karman provincial government, the two-day event aims to highlight Iran’s commitment to ecotourism and sustainable rural development. The assembly is expected to enhance collaboration among ecotourism operators while introducing Iran’s rich cultural and natural heritage at the international stage.
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