Gomishan Tappeh (Gomishan Tepe)

Gomishan Tepe, the capital of Gomishan County in Golestan Province, lies at the northernmost point of the Caspian Sea's eastern shore. The town is bordered by Turkmenistan to the north, Bandar Torkaman to the south, Aq Qala to the east and the Caspian Sea to the west. Its local name is "Kümüş Depe", which means "Silver Hill" in Turkmen. The name is said to come either from the way the salt hills glitter in the sunlight or from the discovery of old silver vessels in the area. Gomishan Tepe is about 57 km from Gorgan, the provincial capital, and 20 km from Bandar Torkaman, so it is easy for travellers to reach.

The region offers a unique combination of natural and historical attractions. The Gomishan International Wetland is a habitat for migratory birds such as flamingos, grey herons, sea eagles, wild geese and coots, and is one of the best birdwatching spots in Iran. The Naftlijeh mud volcano, with its eruptions of sedimentary mud and its smell of oil, is a fascinating geological phenomenon. The historic houses of Gomishan Tepe, built of wood in two and three storeys, are relics of the Qajar and Pahlavi eras and were built under the influence of Russian architecture. The Gorgan Defensive Wall, known in the past as the Red Wall or the Red Snake, is another historical monument of the area.

From Gorgan, the capital of Golestan Province, drive towards Aq Qala, then continue along the Aq Qala–Gomishan road until you reach Gomishan County and the town of Gomishan Tepe. The route is about 57 km long and takes roughly one hour by car. If you are coming from Bandar Torkaman, simply take the local Bandar Torkaman–Gomishan road; the distance is about 20 km and the drive is easy. The best time to visit the region is autumn and winter, when the Gomishan Wetland hosts migratory birds. A permit from the Golestan Provincial Department of Environment is required to visit the wetland. When travelling to Gomishan Tepe, it is especially important to practise responsible nature tourism, such as keeping the environment clean and respecting wildlife.