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Sharazur Plain
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The Sharazur Plain is a tectonic depression located southeast of Sulaymaniyah in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Measuring 45 kilometers in length and 15 kilometers in width, it forms the most productive agricultural center of the province. The soil composition predominantly consists of deep, highly fertile alluvial soils. Unlike the southern and central parts of Iraq, this plain benefits from average annual precipitation ranging between 500 and 700 millimeters, which largely facilitates dry farming. The main crops cultivated include wheat, chickpeas, and sunflowers, while rice is also significant in irrigated zones. The basin is bisected by the Sirwan River, which provides a supplementary water supply for the farmlands. Surface archaeological surveys conducted in the 1960s and 2010s documented over 200 ancient settlement mounds (tells), indicating continuous agricultural use of the area since the late Neolithic period over 8,000 years ago.
- Location: Iraq
- Top sights: Sarawi Subhanagha · Haji Khurshida mosque · aland faishion
- Nearby: Penjwen (27 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 17 | 24 | 27 | 27 | 22 | 15 | 6 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 46 | 51 | 48 | 22 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 26 | 48 | 42 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Sharazur Plain in Kurdish Iraq is one of the most fertile agricultural regions of the country, surrounded by majestic mountains. It serves as the main cultivation area for cereals, fruits, and vegetables.
Visiting
The plain is an open agricultural landscape and can be traversed on public roads and paths. Villages and fields are freely accessible to visitors, but private property should be respected.
Where to view it
From the surrounding mountain foothills, especially near the city of Halabja, you have a fantastic view of the entire plain. Mount Qenderes gives a particularly wide panorama.
Local products
On the markets of surrounding cities like Halabja and Sulaymaniyya, wheat, barley, apples, and pomegranates from the plain are sold. Seasonal products like fresh figs and grapes are available in late summer.
Active season
Agricultural activity is highest in spring (sowing) and autumn (harvest). Cereal harvest is in May/June, fruit harvest in late summer and autumn.
Nearby
Combine the plain visit with the city of Sulaymaniyya and its famous bazaar. The historic sites of Halabja province and the mountain landscape of the Zagros range are also worth it.
Geography
Facts
- The tectonic depression spans 45 kilometers in length and 15 kilometers in width.
- Average annual precipitation in the region typically ranges between 500 and 700 millimeters.
- The adequate rainfall allows for extensive dry farming of winter grains.
- The Sirwan River cuts through the plain, securing a supplementary water supply.
- Archaeologists have identified over 200 historical settlement mounds in the zone.
- Continuous agricultural utilization of the soils dates back over 8,000 years.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Sharazur Plain (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Sharazur Plain located?
In the Sulaymaniyah province, Northern Iraq (Kurdistan region).
What makes this plain special?
It is one of the most fertile agricultural regions in all of Iraq.
What archaeological finds are there here?
There are numerous tells (settlement mounds) from antiquity.
What is mainly grown in Sharazur?
Wheat, tobacco, vegetables, and various types of fruit.
When is the plain at its greenest?
In early spring, after the winter rains.
Sharazur Plain: where is it located?
Sharazur Plain is located in Iraq.
Sharazur Plain: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sarawi Subhanagha, Haji Khurshida mosque, aland faishion.
Sharazur Plain: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Sharazur Plain: why is it worth visiting?
The Sharazur Plain is a tectonic depression located southeast of Sulaymaniyah in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
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Nearby cities
Sulaymaniyah
An important cultural center in Iraqi Kurdistan, surrounded by mountains.
Halabja
A city in Kurdistan, near the border with Iran.
Penjwen
A high-altitude border town in Sulaymaniyah, known for its cool climate, agriculture, and beautiful mountain scenery.
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Ahmadawa
A popular resort town in the Sulaymaniyah region, famous for its spectacular waterfalls and cool springs.
Uraman Takht
A historic village in the heart of the Hawraman region, famous for its UNESCO-listed cultural landscape.
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Lake Dukan
Lake Dukan is the largest lake in Iraqi Kurdistan, formed by a dam on the Little Zab River.
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Mount Pira Magrun
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