Usiah Spring

Usiah Spring, also known as Ab-e Siah ("Black Water"), is one of the natural attractions of Behdeh village in Parsian County, Hormozgan Province. It lies northwest of the village, at the end of the beautiful Parav Valley. Behdeh is located in the west of Hormozgan Province, within Parsian County, and with its mountain scenery, picturesque valleys and numerous historical sites, it is considered one of the county's worthwhile places to visit. Usiah Spring sits in a pristine setting among the mountains and natural landscapes of the region, and its water originates in the surrounding highlands. After flowing down from the mountains, the water collects in a natural basin with no defined outlet. Because the water stays in place, its colour gradually changes from blue to a murky green, a feature said to be the reason for the spring's fame and its name, "Usiah" or "Ab-e Siah" (Black Water).

Besides its natural features and the unusual colour of its water, Usiah Spring is also part of the historical and agricultural landscape of the Behdeh area. In the past, the spring's water cascaded down from a height, forming a natural waterfall, and was then channelled through narrow sarooj (traditional waterproof lime mortar) channels and aqueduct bridges (garbeh-row) to date palm groves and farmland. The water was also used to power water mills and played an important role in supplying irrigation water to the region. Today, however, its historic waterfall no longer flows as it once did, and the spring's water is carried through polyethylene pipes to irrigate the lands downstream. Parav Valley and the area around the spring still have considerable vegetation, and the combination of water, eroded mountains and the surrounding thickets creates a distinctive landscape for nature lovers. The spring's proximity to the historical sites of Behdeh, including Behdeh Castle, also makes it possible to visit both the natural and historical attractions of the area at the same time.

To reach Usiah Spring, you first need to get to Parsian County in Hormozgan Province and then to Behdeh village, which is about 38 kilometres from Parsian. Coming from Bushehr, you can reach Parsian via Asaluyeh; from the east or north of Hormozgan, the route through Bandar Abbas, Bandar Khamir and Bandar Lengeh leads to Parsian. After reaching Behdeh, the route to the spring continues through the area's colourful, eroded mountains, and reaching the spring itself requires hiking along a natural trail; according to available information, the walk in takes about an hour and a half. Autumn and winter are the best times to visit Usiah Spring, and early spring, before temperatures rise sharply, can also be a good time. While hiking, avoid damaging the vegetation, polluting the spring's water or leaving rubbish behind, and given the mountainous nature of the trail, bring suitable footwear, drinking water and essential gear for nature trips.