Kūh-e Hezār, Mountain peak in Kerman Province, Iran
Kūh-e Hezār is a mountain summit in Kerman Province, Iran, reaching around 4,500 feet (4,500 m) and ranking among the highest peaks in the country. Its slopes pass through several distinct elevation bands, from forested lower zones to bare rock near the top.
The mountain was long used as a passage route by travelers crossing through the Kerman region, making it part of the area's geography for centuries. Stone structures near the summit point to earlier human presence and a possible connection to old beliefs.
The name comes from the Persian word 'hezar', meaning 'thousand', referring to the many wild plants found on its slopes. Hikers moving through the lower elevations notice how the plant cover changes noticeably as they gain height.
The main approach follows the northern route from Rain Waterfall, with a mountain shelter at around 10,170 ft (3,100 m) offering basic accommodation. Starting the climb early in the morning is advisable, as weather at high elevation can change quickly.
The village of Bab Zangi sits on the mountain slopes at around 10,800 ft (3,300 m) and is considered one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements in the country. Life there continues through winter, even though conditions at that elevation are very harsh.
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