TEHRAN--Director General of Mazandaran Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department Hossein Izadi announced the opening of the country's first rural literary tourism route in Kandelous.

According to Miras-e Arya (CHTN), he said that this route was designed and launched with inspiration from the ancient legend of “Mina and the Leopard” and is considered a new step in linking local literature with cultural tourism.

This literary route, which is about one kilometer long, is accompanied by various stations such as Mina's house, story murals, a romantic meeting place, Mina and the Leopard Cafe, narrative paintings, and symbolic sculptures, and provides a different experience of narrative-based tourism for visitors, he added.

He clarified that the main goal of creating this route is to deepen the tourism experience through narrative-based tourism; so that tourists, by hearing the story of the legend of “Mina and the Leopard” from the words of local narrators, establish a deeper connection with the history and identity of this ancient village in the heart of the cultural and natural texture of Kandelous.

Izadi pointed out that Kandelous is famous for its anthropological and medicinal plant museums and original architecture, and noted that with the opening of this literary route, a new step has been taken towards the globalization of Iranian rural tourism. 

Nestled in the breathtaking Mazandaran province, northern Iran, Kandelous village stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Known as “The Lost Paradise,” the picturesque village offers visitors a unique blend of historical significance, cultural depth, and ecological wonders.

Kandelous is one of Iran’s oldest settlements, with traces of civilization dating back before the Islamic era. During the Qajar dynasty, the village gained recognition, with Nasser al-Din Shah Qajar reportedly passing through and admiring the craftsmanship of local metalworkers.

The village’s architectural charm—featuring wooden-framed windows, gabled rooftops, and winding stone alleyways—reflects its deep-rooted heritage. Unlike many modernized settlements, Kandelous has preserved its historical texture, allowing visitors to experience Iran’s rural elegance firsthand.

Beyond its historical significance, Kandelous is renowned for its Medicinal Plant Farms, which cultivate over 250 species of rare and valuable herbs. The village has become a hub for traditional herbal medicine, preserving the knowledge of Iranian healers while promoting sustainable farming practices.

Visitors can indulge in traditional Iranian cuisine at its traditional restaurants. Local handicraft markets are another highlight of the village, featuring Jajim textiles, felt clothing, socks, gloves, and floral wool blouses, each crafted by skilled artisans.

One of the most defining aspects of Kandelous is its Anthropology Museum, a pioneering institution founded by Dr. Aliasghar Jahangiri. A native of Kandelous, Jahangiri dedicated his life to preserving the village’s history and showcasing its cultural treasures. After completing his doctoral studies in the United States, he returned to his childhood home with a mission—to establish a museum that would safeguard Iran’s rural heritage and educate future generations.

Under his leadership, the Kandelous Anthropology Museum was established between 1981 and 1988, becoming the world’s first rural museum. Housing over 8,000 artifacts, including pottery, manuscripts, agricultural tools, and ancient artwork, the museum serves as a bridge between Iran’s past and present. Jahangiri’s efforts extended beyond historical preservation—he also played a crucial role in documenting and promoting Iran’s medicinal plant heritage, leading to the creation of a museum dedicated to medicinal plants.

Kandelous provides comfortable accommodations, including suites, villas, and guest houses, ensuring that visitors can fully experience its serene environment. The village also boasts open parks and pavilions, offering a tranquil space for relaxation and seasonal festivities.

Kandelous has gained international attention, appearing in foreign media and attracting increasing numbers of tourists. In 2023, it was nominated among eight Iranian villages for the Global Village title by UN Tourism, formerly known as the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Additionally, efforts are underway to win a UNESCO label for the village in the future.

KD