Gisoom in Northern Iran Nestled in the Hyrcanian Forests, Considered for their UN Tourism Recognition, Promoting Sustainable Tourism Development Growth

Published on December 24, 2025

Gisoom is presently under consideration as a potential nomination under the UNESCO UN Tourism program, located as it is in the scenic Talesh County, within the Iranian province of Gilan, in the northern parts of the country. The recognition by UNESCO is a prestigious honor accorded to the more rural tourist destinations, and Gisoom, with its history and natural sceneries, has been identified to be a potential destination within the globe as a whole, thanks to the natural surroundings of the region known as the Hyrcanian Forest, a UNESCO natural heritage location noted for its richness in vegetation and natural life.

The world recognition of Gisoom can help the village unlock a new reality of tourism. Gisoom has been incorporating a high level of community support, conservation of the environment, as well as the growing culture of ecotourism. The UN Tourism Program nomination of Gisoom is set to increase the popularity of the village so as to attract a high number of tourists while still developing in a sustainable manner.

Sustainable Tourism: Protecting Nature While Promoting Economic Growth

The partnership between local communities, authorities, and tourism stakeholders in Gisoom serves as a model for sustainable tourism growth. The village’s commitment to preserving the Hyrcanian forests through local governance and community collaboration allows eco-tourism to thrive without harming the environment. By combining tourism promotion with environmental stewardship, the Gisoom Cherry Blossom Festival provides a blueprint for sustainable travel that preserves the area’s natural resources and biodiversity.

Through this initiative, Gisoom is becoming a key destination for travelers seeking eco-friendly travel options, immersive nature experiences, and cultural authenticity. The festival’s focus on local craftsmanship, traditional foods, and environmentally responsible practices ensures that the region’s cultural heritage is protected while economic growth from tourism benefits local communities.

Eco-Tourism: A Growing Demand for Sustainable Travel

The rise in eco-tourism globally has placed a stronger emphasis on nature-based travel experiences that are aligned with sustainability goals. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental footprint, the demand for eco-tourism destinations like Gisoom continues to increase. The village’s emphasis on sustainable practices—from tree planting and wildlife preservation to low-impact trekking—aligns with the global trend toward more responsible tourism.

By embracing green travel and eco-conscious tourism practices, Gisoom offers an authentic experience that allows visitors to explore the beauty of Shan State while supporting the conservation of natural resources. The village’s focus on low-impact tourism activities like hiking and nature walks will ensure that tourism development does not compromise the environment, providing long-term benefits to both the local community and the ecosystem.

Building Infrastructure for Sustainable Eco-Tourism in Myanmar

The future growth of eco-tourism in Gisoom is closely tied to the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure. As the region’s popularity as an eco-tourism destination grows, investments in green accommodations, sustainable transport options, and eco-friendly services will be essential to supporting long-term tourism growth. The addition of sustainable hotels, renewable energy sources, and environmentally-friendly transportation options will position Gisoom as a leader in eco-tourism in Myanmar.

The handicraft market and local tourism businesses in the village also provide a model for how tourism can benefit local economies while maintaining environmental responsibility. Tourist dollars spent on local goods and artisan crafts are reinvested into the community, ensuring that the economic impact of tourism is felt by local residents and not just the tourism sector.

Leveraging Cultural Heritage and Nature for Long-Term Tourism Growth

As tourism demand increases, Gisoom can leverage its cultural heritage and natural beauty to develop long-term, sustainable tourism initiatives. The village’s traditional architecture, indigenous practices, and cultural festivals can be showcased as part of the tourism offering, attracting international visitors looking for authentic experiences. These offerings, combined with nature tourism, can help diversify the region’s tourism industry, making it less reliant on seasonal peaks and fostering year-round tourism growth.

Sustainable tourism in Gisoom will also create job opportunities in sectors like tourism management, hospitality, and local artisan production, contributing to economic diversification and resilience. The integration of sustainable practices will attract a new generation of eco-conscious travelers, ensuring the region remains a top destination for responsible tourism in Southeast Asia.

Gisoom as a Model for Sustainable Eco-Tourism

Gisoom has been incorporating a high level of community support, conservation of the environment, as well as the growing culture of ecotourism. The steadily increasing tourism in Gisoom, the region’s dedication to preserving natural resources, promoting local craftsmanship, and sustaining cultural tradition will create a precedent for other rural regions in Asia. This approach to sustainable tourism can have a ripple effect in other regions of the world, promoting international cooperation in the preservation of cultural traditions around the world.