Iran is not only an ancient Persian civilization with many historical sites, but also rich in natural wonders.

Geologists are particularly fond of the Badab-e Surt terraces, a combination of Bad, Gas, AB, Water and Surt in Mazandaran province, with the old name of Orost village located 7km to the west. While there are many similar places on Earth, such as Mamma Hot Springs in the United States and Cotton Castle in Turkey, what makes the Badab-e Surt terraces unique is their distinctive orange hue, which is caused by the concentration of iron oxide.

The mysterious "Badab-e Surt Arvest" spring means that the intensity of soda water includes 12 completely different springs in terms of smell and taste, and it is a rare geological masterpiece. Spring flows have created spectacular terraces over an area of about three hectares and were formed in the geological Quaternary period. One of these springs is the main fountain, the salt water is very salty, there is a small pond, mainly used for swimming and water treatment (hydrotherapy). The salt water from the hot springs has curative properties, claiming to cure ailments such as rheumatism and certain skin diseases. In part of the pond floor, there is a deep hole called the Bermuda Swamp.

The Badab-e Surt is a series of trapedoid travertine (limestone) pools, smaller than those of the Turkish cottonburg, but in the turn-shaped valley of Telma Dare, 23 km east of the Danmar-Sali road, it is spotted with colour and quiet, isolated in a valley surrounded by mountains.

Located 1,840 meters above sea level, the terraces are the pinnacles of limestone deposited over thousands of years by water flowing down from two mineral springs, which are believed to have medicinal value due to their high mineral content. When the water reaches the surface, the carbon dioxide degasses and deposits carbonate minerals. As the heavier minerals settle at the top of the steps, the water becomes clearer as it flows down, turning the site into a dreamy, sky-reflecting mirror staircase whose color changes according to the sunlight of the day. (For reprint, please indicate Jiandao website www.seetao.com) Jiandao website video column editor/Linping Gan