Time Zone |
Asia/Tehran |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+3.5 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+4.5 |
Time Zone |
Asia/Yerevan |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+4 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Hormuz is an island city in the south of Iran, located at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, and is part of Hormozgan Province. The island covers an area of about 42 square kilometers and is known for its unique red soil and salt mounds, often referred to as the "Rainbow Island". Strategically located, Hormuzgan was historically a key node in the Persian Gulf trade routes, and remains a choke point for global oil transportation.
Khormuj has spectacular red beaches and colorful hills with an ochre-red hue due to its rich iron oxide content. The local economy is based on fishing, salt mining and tourism, and visitors can experience traditional fishing boat trips and see wild flamingos. The ruins of a 16th-century Portuguese castle have been preserved on the island, reflecting the colonial past. Residents are mostly engaged in handicrafts, such as making artistic bottles from colored sand.
The city controls the Strait of Hormuz, a global energy lifeline through which about one-third of seaborne oil passes. Despite the scarcity of resources, the location has allowed for the development of transshipment trade. In recent years, the Iranian government has promoted eco-tourism projects, such as the construction of geoparks, to foster sustainable development. With its natural wonders and geographic value, Khormouj has become a potential specialty tourist destination in Iran.
Sevan is a small town in the Armenian province of Gegharkunik, located in the eastern part of the country on the shores of Lake Sevan, about 66 kilometers from the capital city of Yerevan. The town is famous for its eponymous alpine lake, Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Eurasia, at an altitude of about 1,900 meters above sea level, which is known as the "Pearl of Armenia".
Lake Sevan is surrounded by magnificent landscapes and crystal clear waters, making it an important tourist and recreational destination in Armenia. The town boasts historical monuments such as the Sevan Monastery, a 9th-century monastery situated on a peninsula overlooking the lake, which attracts many tourists and pilgrims. The local economy is based on fishing, tourism and agriculture, and the climate is cool enough for summer vacations.
With a population of around 20,000, the town of Sevan retains its traditional Armenian culture, while the infrastructure is constantly being improved to provide accommodation and catering services. It is an ideal starting point for exploring the nature and history of the Caucasus and is easily accessible for short trips.