Zagros Mountains

Mountain chains cross the high plateau of central Kerman, separating upland basins from the warmer country farther south. Their foothills contain oases, while the higher slopes support sparse trees and shrubs, including wild almond and pistachio. Beyond the cultivated uplands lie pastures used for grazing. Peaks such as Lalehzar and Hazar rise far above the dry plains, catching snow that feeds streams descending into the valleys.