A Case Study of Evaluation and Distribution of Tourism Climate by Using TCI: Baluchestan Region of Iran

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the tourist’s comfort conditions of Baluchestan region by using Tourism Climate Index (TCI). Climate parameters data were collected from 5 synoptic stations (Khash, Saravan, Nikshahr, Iranshahr and Chabahar) located in Baluchestan region of Iran between January 1995 and December 2015. Monthly TCI for each station was calculated and geographical distribution maps were prepared by using GIS software. In winter, Baluchestan had very good to ideal TCI. January and February are the best months for travelling to Chabahar based on TCI. Marginal to ideal TCI was observed in spring, except for Chabahar which had excellent TCI due to monsoon wind. In summer, elevation plays an important role for determination of TCI and acceptable TCI was achieved. By decreasing temperature in autumn, better tourism conditions and ideal TCI were observed. Nikshahr and Iranshahr had ideal TCI in March, however, ideal TCI was observed in April, October and November for Khash and Saravan. It can be concluded that winter seems to be the best season for travelling to Baluchestan region as TCI ranged from very good to ideal except for Khash. Elevation has the important effect on tourism climate condition and higher elevated counties (Khash and Saravan) have different tourism season compared to other counties (Nikshahr and Iranshahr).