If you are planning to travel to Maranjab desert, one of the attractions close to this desert is a salt lake known as Aran and Bidgol lake. This lake is not really a lake and there is no significant water in it except when it is raining. Of course, in recent years, thanks to heavy rainfall, the water of this lake has increased and the use of the word lake has become more logical for it.

In previous years, despite many droughts, the lake was almost dry.
Aran and Bidgol salt lake are the largest salt lake in Iran, located between the provinces of Isfahan, Semnan and Qom. The lake is the result of salt leaching from the surrounding lands over long periods of time, so that significant amounts of salt have already accumulated in the lake.

There are several access roads to the lake, but the most well-known route is the Marnjab Desert Road. From Aran and Bidgol route to the side of this lake is about 35 km which is located at the end of a dirt road and if you want to reach the lake at a suitable speed, you will need about 2 hours from Aran and Bidgol city.

Just before the Marnjab Caravansary, there are signs to guide you into the lake, and this way you can reach the lake. The salt lake is located on the left side of the caravansary and close to the pebbles of the Marnjab desert. In times of rain and water accumulation in the lake, entering the lake is difficult and even impossible, and it is better to enjoy seeing the lake from a distance because entering the lake by car can be dangerous.

One of the attractions of the salt lake is its beautiful octagons, which are created due to the evaporation of water and the drying of the lake surface. A scene that is great for photography and can be enjoyed. Especially at sunset, the reflection of light between salt crystals and octagons can create memorable photos.

Inside the lake, near the Marnjab Caravansary, there is a low mountain known as the Wandering Island. The reason for this naming is related to the mirage phenomenon, which makes it appear to be suspended in the air from a distance. Today, in addition to tourist attraction, the salt of this lake is also extracted and used for various purposes such as food consumption.

Mehdi Gholami.