TEHRAN-- The number of eco-lodge systems across the West Azarbaijan province, northwestern Iran, is planned to increase by threefold within a year, the provincial tourist chief has said.It is anticipated that 100 eco-lodges will be available across the province within one year, up from 32 now, Morteza Safari explained on Friday.The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts highlights the importance of making low-cost journeys, and eco-lodges are perfect alternatives for accommodation since of their cost, the main added.West Azarbaijan embraces a variety of lush natural sceneries, cultural heritage sites, and museums including the UNESCO sites of Takht-e Soleyman and Qareh Klise (St.

Thaddeus Monastery), Teppe Hasanlu and the messed up Bastam Citadel.The area was home to a number of ancient civilizations.

According to Britannica, it was dominated by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC and was named Atropatene after among Alexanders generals, Atropates, who established a small kingdom there.

Eventually, the location returned to Persian (Iranian) rule under the Sasanians in the 3rd century CE.Irans Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization said in 2018 that 2,000 eco-lodges will be constructed throughout the country till 2021.

Specialists say each eco-lodge system produces tasks for seven to 8 individuals on average, so the scheme might produce 160,000 jobs.Having a very diverse natural setting, Iran provides different excursions to nature lovers.

Sightseers may live with a wanderer or rural household or enjoy an independent stay.

The nation is house to abundant historic mansions, caravanserais, bathhouses, madrasas, and other huge monuments, which can buttress its budding tourism and hospitality sectors if handled appropriately and refurbished properly.ABU/ AM