Kalut Shahdad Desert

In the heart of Iran’s Lut Desert, the Kalut Shahdad Desert unveils one of the most surreal and otherworldly landscapes on Earth. Formed over 20,000 years ago by the relentless forces of wind and water erosion, the Kaluts—towering, sculpted ridges of sand and rock—stretch across an 11,000-square-kilometer expanse near the town of Shahdad. These formations resemble a ghostly city of stone, earning the nickname “The Legendary City” or even “The Elf City” due to their haunting, uninhabited beauty2. The region is also home to Gandom Beryan, one of the hottest places on Earth, where NASA once recorded surface temperatures exceeding 70°C (158°F).

Despite its harsh climate, the Kalut Shahdad Desert is a magnet for adventurers, photographers, and stargazers. Visitors can explore the maze-like formations by off-road vehicle, camel, or on foot, and marvel at natural wonders like the Shoor River, Nebkas (desert vases), and the shimmering Eggshell Salt Pan. At night, the desert transforms into a celestial theater, offering some of the clearest views of the Milky Way in Iran. Recognized as part of the UNESCO-listed Lut Desert, the Kaluts are not just a geological marvel—they’re a timeless reminder of nature’s artistry and power.