Boldeh Qanat

Boldeh Qanat is one of Iran's historical and engineering attractions, located in Ferdows County, South Khorasan Province, about 22 kilometres northeast of the city of Ferdows. This water system, whose origins are attributed to the pre-Islamic Sasanian era, is a valuable example of Iranian knowledge in using water resources in dry regions with little rainfall. Boldeh Qanat was added to Iran's National Heritage List in 2015 (1394 SH), and in 2016 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List together with ten other Iranian qanats. The significance of this site is not limited to its age; the continued use of its water over the centuries shows its vital role in the formation and survival of human settlements and agriculture in the Ferdows region.

Boldeh Qanat uses a network of main and secondary channels to bring the water of springs and underground sources to the surface. Together with the collection of surface runoff from the surrounding highlands and valleys, it plays an important role in supplying water to the region's orchards and farmland. In the past the system had 27 qanat channels and four springs; today 16 of them are reported to be active, including 12 main channels and four secondary ones. After the qanat water enters the main canal, it is divided into smaller channels and used to irrigate the surrounding farmland and orchards, including the areas of Baghestan-e Olya, Baghestan-e Sofla and the town of Eslamiyeh. According to available information, the qanat's water supply network extends for about 35 kilometres and irrigates nearly 2,382 hectares of land in the region. Traditional methods of water management and distribution, including the work of the kayals and jooyabans (water measurers and canal keepers), along with practices such as adding clay to the water to reduce seepage in some channels, are among the most interesting aspects of the site. It is also possible to visit parts of the qanat's underground space; however, entering the qanat-exploring routes should be done with attention to safety and accompanied by a guide familiar with the environment.

To reach Boldeh Qanat, first go to the city of Ferdows and take Imam Reza Boulevard or Valiasr Boulevard to Road 91. After passing Ghadir and Basij squares and driving about 13 kilometres, you will reach the Ferdows road police station area. Then take the Ferdows–Gonabad road and continue to the fifth kilometre, leave by the exit on the right, and drive about four more kilometres to reach the qanat. The best time to visit this attraction is spring, especially the days after the Nowruz holidays, when the weather is usually more pleasant and conditions are good for exploring the area. Given the region's dry climate with little rainfall, it is best to bring drinking water, snacks, a hat, sunglasses and suitable footwear, and to visit during daylight. Please also avoid entering shafts and underground sections on your own, damaging historical structures, polluting the waterways and disrupting agricultural activity, so that this valuable heritage is preserved for future generations.