Comparative Study of Karst Geomorphosites in Kermanshah Province Using GAM and M-GAM Models

The purpose of this article is to compare the karst geomorphosites of Kermanshah province based on the two key indicators of core values ​​and complementary values using Vojisic 2011 Geosite Evaluation Model (GAM) and Tamik Modified Model (M-GAM) and Bozic 2014. The research type is applied and has been done by descriptive-analytical method (with field survey technique). The study area includes 6 geosites of Kermanshah province (Rijab waterfall, Bistoon mirage, Taghbestan mirage, Gilat-e-Gharb mirage, Sahneh mirage and Ghori Qaleh cave) which have rich environmental foundations for the development of geotourism. The results showed that the geomorphosites have appropriate scientific / educational and aesthetic value, but in terms of tourism values, the geomorphosites of the study area are not in a favorable condition. The Taghbestan mirage is in a good condition in terms of core values ​​and complementary values. Also, the geomorphosites of Sarab Biston and Quri Qaleh cave are in a relatively good condition from this point of view, while in general, most geomorphosites of the study area has a higher core value and a lower complementary value. In other words, these geomorphosites can only be considered as potential tourist attractions in terms of scientific / educational, aesthetic values ​​and need to promote sustainable tourism. Overall, the evaluation results of the models show a completely vague and deceptive picture of the current situation. The findings indicate that the inclusion of tourists in the modified model of geomorphosites gives a more realistic and clear picture that can be useful in improving and planning the tourism activities of the provincechr('39')s geosites.