Abstract
Leveraging the significant presence of Alpine folds in Isfahan Province, which, in conjunction with karstic and tectonic activities, have resulted in the formation of numerous caves, this study undertook a comparative analysis of six large and relatively well-known karstic-tectonic caves (Khaseh-Trash, Pariyan, Shah-Qandab, Yeke-Chah, Kalahhroud, and Sangriz) with the aim of ranking and selecting them for geotourism development planning. Initially, after outlining the components, the tourism value of the caves was determined and evaluated by experts using the Pralong method. This assessment was based on structural, geoheritage, economic, and exploitative features through the completion of questionnaires. Furthermore, the identification of geomorphosites involved collecting information about geological, geomorphological, and other pertinent characteristics through field surveys and literature reviews. Each geomorphosite was graded for each of the mentioned values, with a ranking scale ranging from 0 to 1. In total, the average score for each cave was 0.70 per value, varying between 0.4 and 1. Furthermore, the average final (tourism) value for each cave was 0.73, with values ranging from 0.60 for Sangriz Cave to 0.98 for Kalahroud Cave. The comparison of various tourism values indicates the prioritization of tourism development in the following order: Kalahoroud, Yekeh-Chah, Khasseh-Tarash, Pariyan, Shah-Ghandab, and Sangriz Cave geomorphosites, based on their respective levels of significance. Accordingly, the deployment of geotourism programs, alongside continuous management and monitoring, fosters the efficient allocation of investments and market opportunities. Moreover, it has been proven once more that the application of this research can aid evidence-based decision-making regarding the management and conservation of geomorphosites.
Extended Abstract
1. Introduction
As a subset of tourism, geotourism emphasizes the exploration of geological and natural features in diverse regions. This approach to tourism not only fosters economic development but also aids in environmental protection and increases public consciousness. Precise evaluation of geosites is vital for the sustainable advancement of geotourism. This process helps to uncover the tourism potential of various regions, ensures appropriate planning for tourism expansion, and supports the conservation of natural resources. A thorough and comprehensive assessment of geomorphosite potential is essential for sustainable tourism development. A comprehensive assessment of geomorphosites for tourism purposes involves multiple methods, such as professional evaluations, visitor surveys, and detailed analyses of the site's geological and ecological attributes, which often require a combination of field studies, geological and topographic mapping, and advanced scientific techniques. With its high karst potential and diverse cave systems, Iran possesses significant geotourism potential. Isfahan Province, in particular, given its remarkable caves, necessitates comprehensive geotourism development plans to identify, classify, and assess these potentials. By applying the Pralong method, this research aims to identify and prioritize karst geosites for sustainable geotourism development.
2. Material and Methods
To assess the geotourism potential of the studied caves, the modified seven-item Pralong (2005) form was used to evaluate the five-index matrix of cultural, economic, usability, scientific, and aesthetic values. This model examines the tourism potential of a geomorphological landform from four perspectives: aesthetics, science, cultural-historical, and socio-economic. The method specifies particular criteria for determining the value of each aspect of the geomorphological landform's tourism potential. Each of these values was determined for the six studied caves, and then by assigning scores to each factor, the total score of each cave was calculated. Subsequently, a comparison of scores between the caves was conducted, and finally, the overall value of the landforms was determined.
3. Results and Discussion
When comparing the scenic value of the caves, the Pariyan and Kalahroud Caves were found to have the highest scores due to their superior visibility, viewing angles, and contrast in color and vertical development of the landforms, while Sangriz Cave scored the lowest. The scientific value of the caves is linked to their rarity, educational appeal, and ecological significance. Kalahroud and Pariyan Caves excel in these aspects, while Sangriz and Shah-Qandab Caves rank the lowest. The cultural value of these caves is assessed based on their religious, historical, artistic, and literary significance. When ranked, the Yekeh Chah, Kalahrood, and Khasseh Tarash caves emerged as the most culturally valuable, while the Shah Qandab and Sangriz caves were rated the lowest. The socio-economic value refers to the potential of using caves for tourism or sports. The Kalahroud, Pariyan, and Yekechah caves have scored full marks in this regard, indicating their multiple values. The utilization value encompasses the degree and manner of cave exploitation. In this section, conservation measures have the highest score, while visitor numbers and accessibility are the weakest indicators. The Yekechah and Sangriz caves exhibit a better status. When considering a broad range of criteria, the Kalahrud, Pariyan, and Yekechah caves demonstrate superior qualities and significant potential for tourism development.
4. Conclusion
A comparative assessment of several karst caves in Isfahan Province based on their geotourism potential, utilizing a modified Pralong method, revealed that the Kalahroud, Yekechah, and Khasseh-Trash caves demonstrate the highest potential for tourism development. These caves have achieved nearly or exceeded 90% of the required tourism value. Although this does not negate the tourism potential of other cave geomorphosites, it suggests that they should be prioritized for development in subsequent phases. This finding aligns with the existing international recognition of these specific locations. Moreover, a systematic theoretical framework now supports this prioritization. It is noteworthy that while the studied caves possess high socioeconomic value, their current utilization rate is relatively low. Only the Sangriz and Shah-Qandab caves exhibit a higher utilization rate stemming from their cultural and historical significance.