Shahsavan Nomads A Unique Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience for Discovering The Shahsavan Nomads are one of Iran’s famous tribes. Iran is home to diverse ethnic groups and nomadic tribes, each with its own traditions, culture, and way of life. Among them, the Shahsavan nomads, primarily inhabiting the northwestern regions of Iran, offer a unique insight into the country’s rich nomadic heritage. If you’re an adventure traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience, visiting the Shahsavan nomads is a rare opportunity to witness an ancient way of life that has been preserved for centuries. Who Are the Shahsavan Nomads? The Shahsavan tribe is a Turkic-speaking nomadic group primarily found in Ardabil Province, particularly in the Moghan Plain, Meshginshahr, and the foothills of Sabalan Mountain. Their name, meaning “those who defend the king,” dates back to the Safavid dynasty when they were tasked with protecting Iran’s northern borders. Over time, the Shahsavan developed a rich culture deeply rooted in pastoral life, seasonal migration, and traditional craftsmanship. The Region Where the Shahsavan Nomads Live The Shahsavan nomads inhabit the northwestern part of Iran, particularly in Ardabil Province. This area is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse climate, and rich grazing lands that sustain their livestock. Their winter settlements are in the Moghan Plain, which is a fertile lowland with mild winters, making it suitable for sheep and goat herding. During the summer, they migrate to the high-altitude meadows of Mount Sabalan, where the cooler temperatures and lush pastures provide ideal conditions for their animals. Mount Sabalan, an inactive volcano and the third-highest peak in Iran, plays a vital role in the Shahsavan way of life, as its melting snow provides fresh water for grazing lands. The cities and towns near the Shahsavan settlements include Parsabad, Germi, Bileh Savar, and Meshginshahr, where some tribe members
Shahsavan Nomads A Unique Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience for Discovering The Shahsavan Nomads are one of Iran’s famous tribes. Iran is home to diverse ethnic groups and nomadic tribes, each with its own traditions, culture, and way of life. Among them, the Shahsavan nomads, primarily inhabiting the northwestern regions of Iran, offer a unique insight into the
Exploring the Moghan Plain Iran’s Fertile and Historic Lowland Iran is a country of diverse landscapes, from vast deserts to towering mountains and lush green plains. One of the most significant and fertile plains in the country is the Moghan Plain, located in the northwestern province of Ardabil. This expansive lowland, stretching along the Aras River and bordering Azerbaijan, is renowned for its agriculture, rich history, and nomadic culture. The Moghan Plain, also written as Mughan Plain, is called Dasht-e Moghan in the Persian language and Muğan düzü in the Azerbaijani language." Geographical Location and Climate The Moghan Plain lies in northwestern Iran, covering parts of Parsabad, Germi, and Bileh Savar. It is situated near the Aras River, which forms the natural border between Iran and Azerbaijan. Due to its low altitude compared to the surrounding mountainous areas, Moghan enjoys a mild climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The region receives moderate rainfall, making it one of Iran’s most productive agricultural zones. Agriculture and Economic Importance Moghan Plain is often referred to as Iran’s agricultural heartland, thanks to its fertile soil and abundant water resources. The region is known for: Wheat and barley production Rice cultivation in areas with irrigation Sunflower and rapeseed farming for oil production Dairy farming, with Moghan’s livestock and dairy products being among the most famous in Iran Large-scale irrigation projects, such as those utilizing water from the Aras River, have turned Moghan into a center for agribusiness. Many industrial-scale farms, as well as small family-run farms, contribute to the region’s economy. The Shahsavan Nomads of Moghan Moghan Plain is home to the Shahsavan nomads, one of Iran’s most well-known Turkic-speaking nomadic tribes. The Shahsavan practice seasonal migration (Kooch), spending their winters in the Moghan Plain and moving to the high-altitude pastures
Exploring the Moghan Plain Iran’s Fertile and Historic Lowland Iran is a country of diverse landscapes, from vast deserts to towering mountains and lush green plains. One of the most significant and fertile plains in the country is the Moghan Plain, located in the northwestern province of Ardabil. This expansive lowland, stretching along the Aras
