World Heritage Identification Number: 1505
World Heritage since: 2016
Category: Natural Heritage
Transboundary Heritage: No
Endangered Heritage: No
Country: 🇮🇷 Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Continent: Asia
UNESCO World Region: Asia and the Pacific
Map
The Lut Desert: A Geological Marvel in Iran
The Lut Desert, officially known as Dasht-e Lut, is a captivating expanse of arid land situated in the southeastern regions of Iran, spanning across the provinces of Kerman and Sistan-Baluchestan. This vast desert, covering approximately 51,800 square kilometers, is the 33rd largest desert globally and holds a significant place within the realm of geology due to its unique and awe-inspiring landforms. In recognition of its exceptional geological processes, the Lut Desert was inscribed onto the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 17, 2016.
More to come…UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site
The Lut Desert, or Dasht-e-Lut, is located in the south-east of the country. Between June and October, this arid subtropical area is swept by strong winds, which transport sediment and cause aeolian erosion on a colossal scale. Consequently, the site presents some of the most spectacular examples of aeolian yardang landforms (massive corrugated ridges). It also contains extensive stony deserts and dune fields. The property represents an exceptional example of ongoing geological processes.
Encyclopedia Record: Dasht-e Lut
Dasht-e Lut, also known as Namakzar-e Shahdad and widely referred to as the Lut Desert is a salt desert located in the provinces of Kerman and Sistan-Baluchestan, Iran. It is the world's 33rd-largest desert, and was included in UNESCO's World Heritage List on July 17, 2016.Additional Site Details
Area: 2,278,015 hectares
(viii) — Outstanding example representing major earth stages
Coordinates: 30.2161111111 , 58.8388888889
