KALEIDAR, East Azarbaijan Province -- Kaleidar, a suburband city in East Azarbaijan has been visited by 108,000 tourists since May 22, said a provincial official Saturday.

Kaleidar Governor Ali-Yar Rastgoo said, "The beautiful nature and historical monuments located in East Azarbaijan Province in the suburban city of Kaleidar has been host to some 108,000 tourists as of the beginning of the current Iranian year, (started May 22)."

He referred to some natural and ancient attractions in the area such as the Babak Castle, and the Yuzband Castle, as capable of appealing to tourists.

Arguing that Kaleidar is a lost gem, not yet recognized, he underlined that 65 percent of East Azarbaijan forest coverage is located in Kaleidar suburban area, and that the cotton product of the province is wonderful.

According to IRNA, Rastgoo said that provisions have been made for the welfare of visitors such as setting up touristic lodges, drinking water supply, hygienic and medical centers, foodstuff, as well as telecommunication facilities at the foot of the Babak Castle known as the Darrehsi Castle.

He said that two hotels have been constructed for the visitors arriving from far away places.

The provincial official added that establishing a travel agency, allocating credits to develop the forest, as well as touristic facilities are needed to attract more Iranian travellers and foreign tourists to the area.

Kaleidar's governor finds the cool climate of the area as a major attraction.

He said, "Kaleidar as a city covered by various species of greenery, and the woodland area of Arasbaran are visited by a great number of tourists arriving here every summer from the farthest points of Iran as well as foreign lands choosing to visit the area to enjoy its natural and historical attractions.

He added that in recent years there has been an increase in the number of the region's tourists due to some promotional measures centered on the natural and historical features of the area.

Rastgoo added that the 12-century-old Babak Castle, containing a palace as well, dates back to 200 AH, the period of Al-Mo'tasemo Billah's (an Abbasid kalif) ruling when it served as a safe haven to a group of his opponents headed by Babak Khorramdin.

He said that the castle, already registered as a national and archaeological monument, is constructed high on a mountain called Jomhur (republic).

The Kaleidar governor ended by indicating that Kaleidar located to the north of East Azarbaijan Province has a population of 100,000.