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Bafgh Iron Ore Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

mine

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The Bafgh Iron Ore Mine, also known as the Choghart Mine, is located in the Yazd province of central Iran. It is one of the most vital sources of iron ore in the country, primarily supplying the national steel industry, including the major mills in Isfahan. The mine was explored in the 1960s with assistance from Soviet geologists, and commercial extraction commenced in 1971. Geologically, it is a magnetite deposit renowned for its high iron content and quality. Mining is conducted using the open-pit method, with ore being crushed and concentrated on-site before transport. Bafgh plays a crucial role in Iran's industrial autonomy by reducing dependence on imported raw materials for steel production. The town of Bafgh has evolved into a significant logistical and railway hub due to these mining activities. In addition to iron ore, the region yields other minerals such as phosphate. Ongoing exploration in the surrounding area aims to identify new reserves to meet the rising demand of expanding domestic steelworks.

Location: Iran
Top sights: Baqerabad Castle · sadr abad castle · Mosqe Mahdie

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	5	8	13	19	25	29	31	29	25	20	12	7
Rain mm	15	12	9	8	3	0	0	2	2	3	13	15

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Bafgh Iron Ore Mine is an industrial titan in Yazd Province, functioning as one of the most prominent sources of raw iron materials in Iran. It significantly drives the national steel industry and serves as a major economic cornerstone for the local desert communities.

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Visiting

As a heavy industrial extraction site with intense daily operations and safety protocols, the active mining pits are completely closed to regular tourists. Occasional organized academic or geological excursions might be arranged with prior permissions, but independent visits are not permitted.

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Where to view it

While close access is forbidden, the sheer enormity of the open-pit mining operations and the massive transport infrastructure can often be observed from the desert highways leading into Bafgh. The dusty plumes and giant machinery create a rugged silhouette against the arid landscape.

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Local products

Visitors cannot buy iron ore directly, but the robust local economy supported by the mine features markets in Bafgh where unique desert handicrafts and regional agricultural products are sold. Date palms thrive in the area, offering excellent fresh dates to passing travelers.

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Active season

Mining operations are generally active throughout the year, sustaining continuous output. The most advisable time for travelers to explore the surrounding Yazd region and witness the industrial transport routes is during the milder autumn and spring seasons, avoiding the scorching summer heat.

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Nearby

Viewing the mining district seamlessly complements a larger tour of Yazd Province's historical attractions. Travelers often combine the industrial starkness of Bafgh with visits to the ancient Zoroastrian sites, traditional desert architecture, and serene palm oases nearby.

Geography

Coordinates

31.60000, 55.39000

Facts

The Choghart ore body has an average iron grade exceeding 60%.
The mine produces several million tons of iron ore concentrate annually.
Bafgh is connected to Isfahan via a strategic railway built for ore transport.
The nearby Se-Chahun mine is another major iron ore deposit in the Bafgh area.
The mining complex employs over 5,000 people in the Yazd province.
The site is located in an arid desert region characterized by extreme temperature shifts.