North Khorasan province is located in the north east of Iran, neighboring the Republic of Turkmenistan. As this province lies in the margin of the central desert in Iran, and it is connected to the high mountains of Kappeh Dāgh, we can observe different climates and vegetation in the province, something which has made this area an ideal habitat for various kinds of animals and plants.
The animals found in the area include Iranian cheetahs, ibexes, wild goats, rams, gazelles, wild cats and birds like pheasants and yellow partridges.
Major ethnic groups of the province are Persians, Āzarīs, Kurds and Turkmens, and minorities of Balūchis, Lurs and Arabs also live in this province. The common language, however, is Persian.
The most common and important handicrafts in this province are carpets, rugs, Turkmen cushions, Bojnūrdī sandals, druggets and a sort of coarse blanket.
Based on archeological studies in the ancient Khan fortress, civilization in the region dates back to 6000 BC (New Stone Age).
Chūkheh Wrestling
The Chūkheh Wrestling is a traditional sport in which the wrestlers match in sandy fields. The annual games are held on April 3 or 4 in Zeynāl Khān (a famous wrestling field) located in the north of the town of Esfarāyen. In the games the wrestlers try to overcome their competitors with special skills and techniques while kettledrums and Persian oboe are being played.
Rūīn Village
This tourist attraction is located in the green valley of Rūīn, 27 km to the north of Esfarāyen. This village has a stair-structure which attracts the attention of any newcomer.
Khosravieh-Fārūj Village
This beautiful village is located in a green and fertile valley, 25 km to the southwest of the town of Fārūj. This village is also called "Fārūj Paradise" as there are numerous springs with refreshing water, fascinating scenery and fresh air.
Esfīdān Village
The village is located in a green, beautiful valley near the city of Bojnūrd. The architecture and structure of houses are stair-structure.
Ālā Dāgh and Bīnālūd Heights
These mountains stretch in directions of northwest and southeast of the province. Ālā Dāgh Mountains are 170 km long and the highest point is Mount Shah-e Jahān which is 3220 meters high. Bīnālūd Mountains are 120 km long. The highest point is Mount Bīnālūd with an altitude of 3410 meters.
In springs and summers, these mountains provide the best settlement places for migrating nomads
Darkash forest
This is the only oak-tree forest in the eastern parts of Iran and is located near the towns of Bāneh and Samalghān. It adds to the beauty of nature in that area.
Mofakham Mirror-House
Javaherdeh Village, Ramsar, North Iran
