Maranjab Desert & Caravanserai
کویر مرنجاب
A desert northeast of Kashan with dunes, a Safavid-era caravanserai and a white salt lake. It is a popular spot for sunsets and stargazing.
The Maranjab Desert lies about 50 km northeast of Aran-Bidgol. Reaching it requires driving on a sandy dirt road, so hiring a four-wheel-drive vehicle or joining a tour is recommended. The Maranjab Caravanserai, built by Shah Abbas I in the Safavid period, served as a supply station on the ancient Silk Road, and part of it is now simple lodging. Nearby, rolling crescent-shaped dunes are good for walking and sandboarding. Further north lies a white salt lake that reflects the sky after rain. The classic experiences are watching the sunset over the dunes in the evening and stargazing at the caravanserai at night. Summer days are extremely hot, so never venture deep into the desert alone.
Opening hours
All day (private car required)
Nearby sights
- Nushabad Underground City (Ouyi)
- Kashan Bazaar & Timche-ye Amin od-Dowleh
- Agha Bozorg Mosque
- Ameri House
- Abbasi House
- Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse
- Borujerdi House
- Tabatabaei House