Community participation drives sustainable tourism in Iran’s Pamenar village

TEHRAN - Nestled in the mountainous Shahiyun district of Dezful in southwestern Iran’s Khuzestan province, the village of Pamenar has emerged as a notable example of community-based sustainable tourism, where residents have combined traditional knowledge, environmental protection, and cultural heritage to create new economic opportunities while preserving their rural identity.

By Mojtaba Gahestuni

Pamenar: Where painted doors speak the language of identity

TEHRAN - Nestled in the northern reaches of Dezful in southwestern Khuzestan province, the ancient village of Pamenar has emerged as one of Iran’s most distinctive rural destinations, blending cultural heritage, environmental identity, and community-based tourism into a living narrative of local memory. In recent years, the village has increasingly drawn attention as a candidate for future international heritage recognition, not only because of its natural beauty and historical character, but also due to innovative efforts by residents to preserve and showcase their cultural identity.