In the heart of Qeshm Island, whispering through wind-sculpted canyons and moonlight brushes, is the valley of the Stars, where ancient stones are one of the most mystical landscapes of the stars. Known locally as Estare Kafuta (the fallen star), this surreal geological wonder was not only shaped by millions of years of natural erosion. It is engraved by legends, mysteries, and generational imaginations.
The valley of Stars, near the village of Berkeh Khalaf in the north of Qeshm, dates back to the Cenozoic era for over two million years. Time, storms, winds and seasonal flash floods carved the landscape into sharp spires, narrow valleys, soaring arches and fragile columns resembling ancient cathedrals.
From above, the view resembles an alien terrain, a maze of stone giants and winding roads. It is no surprise that locals once believe that stars once fell from the heavens here, struck the Earth, shaping these strange and beautiful formations.
The valley of stars is actually an area shaped by erosion caused by surface water, seasonal downpours and strong winds. The original plateau, still more or less intact in the north, is at an altitude of 7-10 meters on the valley floor. It is made up of sandstone with loose calcareous cement and filled with fossil shells. Sharp cones, erosion columns, apex, arches, ridges and band-like walls are one of the features observed in this valley. Due to the fragile nature of the layers, it is expected (and rarely not) that a significant change in valley morphology can occur with each heavy rain.
What is clear is that these formations were created by wind, rain and seasonal shower erosion.
When dusk collapsed, the legend awakened. The sharp mouths of wind s running through the narrow corridors create unforgettable sounds that have sparked stories of spirits and supernatural beings. Many islanders believe that the valley will become a territory of supernatural creatures at night, and avoid entering the area after dark.
This creepy charm only adds to the magic. On a moonlit night, silence deepens and the stars look as if the heavens really descend on the valley.
The Valley of Stars is not only a local treasure, but an international gem. It is one of the most prominent locations within Qeshm Island Geopark in Iran’s Hormozgan province, the Middle East’s first UNESCO global geopark.
The best time to visit
Wandering through narrow stone alleys, standing under jagged cliffs, taking golden time on the rocky surface or not, the valley of stars offers endless visual drama. The landscape is most magical on sunrise and moonlight nights, with shadows dancing and silence becoming its own story.
October to April (cool month) is the perfect time to visit the Valley of Stars.
How to get there
Located in the southeastern part of Qeshm Island, the valley of Stars is located just a short distance from the village of Berkeh Khalaf. After driving about 5 km from the main town of Qeshm, you will arrive at the entrance to the village and this stunning natural wonder. From there, a dirt road leads directly to the centre of the valley.
The Valley of Stars is not just a destination, but a journey to the souls of the Earth, created by locals to explain its wonders. For those seeking more than just a landscape, the valley is written in stone and offers a story that whispers to the wind.
By Mohaddeseh Pakravan