Pol-e Kheyr Cave

Pol-e Kheyr Cave is a registered natural and historical monument in Qaenat County, South Khorasan Province, Iran. It lies about 25 kilometres west of the city of Qaen and about 1 kilometre from the village of Andaryk. Along with the other historic caves of this mountainous, arid region, it is important for its archaeological value and the traces of ancient human life found there. It was registered as a national monument of Iran on 10 Mehr 1380 under national registration number 4137.

The interior of Pol-e Kheyr Cave extends both horizontally and vertically. Its walls are made of Taurus limestone, shaped by the circulation of water and geological processes of past eras. The cave mouth opens to the east, about 40 metres above the riverbed. The entrance is an irregular passage about 18 metres high, and continuing further is not possible without proper equipment. Inside the cave you can see beautiful limestone formations, and large areas of the floor are covered with pottery fragments from prehistoric and Islamic periods, showing that ancient people lived in and used this place. About 1 kilometre southeast of the cave there is also a spring of drinking water, which was probably the water source for the cave's inhabitants in the past; signs of habitation continue up to the Seljuk period.

To reach Pol-e Kheyr Cave, head west from the city of Qaen along village roads. After driving along dirt tracks you will arrive near the village of Andaryk, and then a light mountain hike is needed to reach the cave mouth. Because the entrance is high up and the cave contains passages and vertical sections, entering requires care and suitable equipment. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the weather is milder and walking over rough terrain is easier. During your visit, it is very important to follow the principles of responsible nature tourism: bring suitable equipment, respect the natural environment, and avoid damaging the cave's ancient and natural structures.