Document Type : Original Article

• Tourism

Extended Abstract

1. Introduction

The tourism industry, as one of the most important service industries globally, plays a significant role in job creation, income generation, and sustainable development. Within this sector, geotourism has emerged as a novel branch of tourism focused on geological and geomorphological attractions. This form of tourism, while utilizing geological features and natural landscapes, also emphasizes public awareness, the conservation of natural heritage, and the engagement of local communities. Geosites and geomorphosites, as the core elements of geotourism, possess scientific, ecological, aesthetic, cultural, and economic values. Their identification and evaluation can contribute to the development of sustainable tourism. Damghan County, due to its unique geographical location, remarkable diversity of geological phenomena, and unique natural attractions, holds high potential for geotourism development. However, a lack of tourism infrastructure and weak management have resulted in the region's actual capacities remaining largely unrecognized. Therefore, a scientific evaluation of its geosites using quantitative and qualitative models such as GAM and Kubalíková is deemed essential. The application of these models not only enables the ranking and identification of the most significant geosites but can also provide a foundation for planning sustainable tourism development in the region.

2. Materials and Methods:

This research is applied in nature and was conducted using a descriptive-analytical approach. For data collection, in addition to library studies and a review of scientific literature related to geotourism, two standardized questionnaires based on the indices of the GAM model and the Kubalíková method were employed. These questionnaires were distributed among experts, local specialists, and individuals familiar with the natural environment of Damghan County to gather their perspectives and experiences regarding the values and potentials of the geosites. The GAM model is designed around two main groups of values: Main Values (scientific-educational, aesthetic, and protective) and Additional Values (functional and touristic). It utilizes the total scores of these indices to rank the geosites. In contrast, the Kubalíková method, with its five criterion groups—scientific and intrinsic values, educational values, economic values, conservation values, and cultural and added values—provides a more comprehensive evaluation of the geosites.The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed separately using these two models after collection. The results were then compared to derive a clear picture of the geotourism capacities and priorities of Damghan County.

3. Results and Discussion

The findings of the study revealed that the Cheshmeh Ali geosite achieved the highest ranking in both evaluation models, with a score of 16 in the GAM model and 11.75 in the Kubalíková model. These results indicate that this geosite not only possesses significant geological and geomorphological value but also benefits from cultural and historical attractions, making it a potential flagship geotourism destination in Damghan County. In contrast, the Tang-e Zendan and Shirband Cave geosites received the lowest scores in both models, with Tang-e Zendan scoring 8 and 7.25 in the GAM and Kubalíková models, respectively, and Shirband Cave scoring 8.5 and 8.25. This suggests that these sites suffer from relatively weak tourism infrastructure, accessibility, and service diversity, despite retaining potential for development due to their natural beauty and scientific value. A comparison of the results from the two models showed that although there were slight differences in scoring, the overall ranking trends were consistent. Both models emphasized the significance of the Cheshmeh Ali geosite and the relative weaknesses of Shirband Cave and Tang-e Zendan. This demonstrates that employing both models simultaneously can enhance the accuracy and reliability of geosite evaluations. Overall, the study results indicate that Damghan County possesses significant potential for geotourism development. However, insufficient infrastructure, inadequate scientific and cultural promotion, and a lack of integrated management have hindered the full realization of this potential. Therefore, developing tourism infrastructure, educating local communities, and implementing targeted investments could enhance geotourism in Damghan and establish it as a leading sustainable tourism destination in the country.

4. Conclusions

 This study demonstrates that Damghan County, despite its diverse range of geological and geomorphological phenomena, possesses significant potential for the development of geotourism. The evaluation of geosites using both the GAM and Kubalíková models indicates that the Cheshmeh Ali geosite has the highest potential in terms of scientific, cultural, aesthetic, and economic values, and can therefore serve as the focal point for regional tourism planning. In contrast, the Tang-e Zendan and Shirband Cave geosites ranked the lowest due to infrastructural deficiencies and limited accessibility; however, they still retain potential for enhancement and development.These results reveal that, despite the natural and cultural values of Damghan County, the absence of efficient management and adequate infrastructure has prevented the full realization of the region's geotourism capabilities. Consequently, strengthening infrastructure, educating and engaging local communities, making sustainable investments, and promoting the scientific and cultural significance of the geosites can pave the way for the flourishing of geotourism and establish Damghan as a hub for sustainable tourism in the country.

5. Acknowledgement & Funding:

We extend our deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to the successful completion of this research.

6. Conflict of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.