In an innovative blend of agriculture and tourism, a 20-year-old Iranian student has transformed a patch of land in the northern province of Golestan into an unlikely tropical fruit haven, drawing visitors from across the region.

Saeed Kianzadeh, a horticulture student at Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, has established "Rashin Farm," a 1,500 square metre greenhouse where he grows tropical fruits such as bananas, papaya, guava, and pineapple.

"We're using about half the water here compared to outdoor cultivation," Kianzadeh told Reuters, highlighting the project's focus on sustainable practices.

The farm employs drip irrigation techniques to conserve water, a crucial consideration in a country facing water scarcity issues.

"We're using about half the water here compared to outdoor cultivation," Kianzadeh told Khabar Online, highlighting the project's focus on sustainable practices.

The farm, located in Gonbad-e Kavus, a city far from Iran's tropical zones, allows visitors to tour the greenhouse, learn about exotic fruits, and purchase fresh produce. An open-air section of the farm offers tourists the chance to pick their vegetables.

"This project exemplifies the potential of agritourism in Iran," said Dr. Ali Mohammadi, an agricultural economist not involved in the project. "It combines crop diversification with tourism, creating new economic opportunities in rural areas."

This agritourism venture comes as Iran seeks to diversify its economy and boost domestic tourism. It also demonstrates the potential for adaptive agricultural practices in a country facing water scarcity and diverse climatic conditions.

"Projects like this show how we can bring new experiences to local communities while promoting innovative farming techniques," said Dr Ali Mohammadi, an agricultural economist not involved in the project.

The success of this agritourism model could pave the way for similar initiatives across Iran, potentially reducing reliance on fruit imports and offering new experiences to domestic tourists increasingly interested in nature-based activities.