Shahsavan nomads, inhabitants of green pastures in northwestern Iran

TEHRAN — Shahsavan nomads are one of the best-known and most important tribes living in northwestern provinces of East Azarbaijan and Ardebil. The Shahsavan tribes traditionally pursue a nomadic pastoral way of life, migrating between winter pastures and summer quarters. In the wake of the hot and cold seasons these pastoral nomads travel for kilometers with their whole life packed on their backs. They begin their migration to their traditional summer camps in Mount Sabalan in early May. With the availability of the pastures and many mountain springs the Shahsavan tribes graze their animals with ease. They earn a living by breeding livestock and graze them on the pastures of mountain ranges in Ardabil. Herding sheep and goats is a very time-consuming process which takes up a lot of energy that's why the whole family is involved. Herding is the basis of economic life for the Shahsavan nomads and the tribe earns its living mainly through various dairy products. They live in dome-shaped tents stretching almost five meters and are usually decorated with bells, colorful cloths, rugs and cushions. The tents only take 15 minutes to set up. Their rich history, lifestyle, customs, and traditions attract many tourists annually. Photo: Tehran Times/ Mohammadreza Abbasi