North Khorasan

North Khorasan province is located in the north east of Iran, neighboring the Republic of Turkmenistan. As this province lies in the margin of the central desert in Iran, and it is connected to the high mountains of Kappeh Dāgh, we can observe different climates and vegetation in the province, something which has made this area an ideal habitat for various kinds of animals and plants.

The animals found in the area include Iranian cheetahs, ibexes, wild goats, rams, gazelles, wild cats and birds like pheasants and yellow partridges.

Major ethnic groups of the province are Persians, Āzarīs, Kurds and Turkmens, and minorities of Balūchis, Lurs and Arabs also live in this province. The common language, however, is Persian.

The most common and important handicrafts in this province are carpets, rugs, Turkmen cushions, Bojnūrdī sandals, druggets and a sort of coarse blanket.

Based on archeological studies in the ancient Khan fortress, civilization in the region dates back to 6000 BC (New Stone Age).

Chūkheh Wrestling

The Chūkheh Wrestling is a traditional sport in which the wrestlers match in sandy fields. The annual games are held on April 3 or 4 in Zeynāl Khān (a famous wrestling field) located in the north of the town of Esfarāyen. In the games the wrestlers try to overcome their competitors with special skills and techniques while kettledrums and Persian oboe are being played.