Khalis

Khalis (Arabic: الخالص) is a town in Diyālá Governorate, eastern Iraq, located about 15 km northeast of Baqubah on the Diyala River. The name means "the pure" in Arabic. Khalis is an agricultural centre, surrounded by extensive date palm groves, citrus orchards, and vegetable farms fed by irrigation canals from the Diyala River. It serves as a market town for the surrounding farming communities. The climate is hot desert: summer highs above 45°C, mild winters (12–22°C). November–March is the best time to visit.

By Plane

Baghdad International Airport (BGW) is about 80 km southwest, about 1 hour 15 minutes by taxi (35,000–50,000 IQD).

By Car / Road

Khalis is on the main road from Baqubah (15 km southwest, ~15 min) heading northeast toward the Iranian border. Shared taxis run from Baqubah regularly.

The town is walkable. Local taxis are available for trips to surrounding farms.

• Diyala River: The river flows through the town, lined with date palms and citrus trees.

• Local Souk: A bustling market with fresh produce and local products.

• Orchards: Citrus and date plantations stretch in every direction.

• Farm Visits: Many farms welcome visitors during harvest; the citrus season is November–February.

• Riverbank Strolls: Walk along the Diyala River in the late afternoon.

Local restaurants serve masgoof, kebabs, and falafel. Fresh fruit is abundant.

Chai and fresh juices are available at market stalls. Bottled water essential.

• Budget: Basic rest houses (10,000–15,000 IQD).
• Mid-range: Better accommodation in Baqubah (15 km southwest).

Fresh dates, citrus fruits, and date syrup are the main products. The weekly market is lively.

• Baqubah (15 km southwest, ~15 min) — Capital of Diyala with the Diyala Weir and local museums.
• Baladruz (30 km southeast, ~30 min) — Citrus town on the Diyala River.
• Muqdadiyah (20 km north, ~20 min) — Diyala market town.
• Kifri (60 km northeast, ~1 hr) — Town in the Hamrin Mountains near the Kurdish region.
• Baghdad (80 km southwest, ~1 hr 15 min) — Iraq's capital.