Discover the natural beauty of Darakeh
Do you think Tehran is just a bustling, traffic-laden capital? Think again! A short distance from the city’s hustle and bustle, you can discover areas that seem as though they’ve been meticulously plucked from the northern forests of Iran and gently nestled in Tehran’s corners.
Places like Darakeh stand lush and tall, filling the lungs of its residents with fresh air. Darakeh dates back 800 years. Throughout the centuries, it has consistently drawn attention due to its delightful climate. The Darakeh area was once a favored spot for nobility and princes, but it has also been a permanent home for ordinary people throughout the years, surfiran.com wrote.
Darakeh still hosts houses with permanent residents. People who have embraced the challenges and tranquility of this area, away from Tehran’s bustling urban life, add different hues to their daily lives. The residents of Darakeh are primarily involved in gardening, agriculture, and poultry farming.
Situated in the northwest of Tehran, Darakeh borders Evin neighborhood to the south, Saadat Abad to the west, and Shahid Beheshti University campus to the east. Considered part of the Shemiranat area, Darakeh enjoys a more pleasant climate in spring and summer compared to other parts of Tehran, with temperatures rarely exceeding 25-27 degrees Celsius. As a mountainous retreat, Darakeh’s colder seasons feel intensely chilly, even harsh at times.
On the hiking trails of Darakeh, you’ll encounter a narrow strip of mountainous forests that double the pleasure of the journey. The valley spans approximately six kilometers, with altitudes ranging from 1,590 to 3,944 meters.
A metropolis with all its challenges, Tehran sometimes makes you, whether a resident or a traveler, yearn for a serene environment. What better place than the heart of nature?
Darakeh offers a verdant and tranquil haven – a neighborhood that beckons you for various reasons.
If you go to Darakeh for a hike, you’ll find alley-gardens with tall trees offering their shades, old houses with ancient doors, and air that’s fresh and free from the city’s noise. Darakeh is a popular area for hiking, especially on weekends and holidays. It welcomes both professional and amateur hikers. If you’re keen on hiking, Darakeh’s heights could be an excellent choice for you. The delectable snacks of Darakeh, from fruit rolls and pickles, fresh corn, pomegranate juice, and walnuts to diverse restaurant dishes, are great excuses to head for Darakeh.
Darakeh River
The Darakeh River, originating in the Tochal heights, fed by natural springs, becomes more water-abundant, continuing its journey down the heights. The unique combination of the river and trees plays a significant role in making this part of Tehran so delightful.
Kara Forest
Kara Forest is one of the most captivating areas in Darakeh. To reach this forest, travel about two kilometers from Darakeh Square, following the river. You’ll come to a fork in the road. The straight path leads to Palangchal, and the left path takes you to Kara Forest. Kara hut is at the beginning of this path – use it as a landmark to guide your way. Once on the road leading to Kara Forest, expect a steep slope at the beginning, a 40-minute walk ahead, and cornelian cherry trees waiting amidst the forest.
Chin Kalagh Peak
Chin Kalagh Peak, the southernmost peak of the Alborz Mountains, stands at an elevation of 2,820 meters. Reaching it involves traversing a forested path. After reaching the forest, continue ascending. To conquer Chin Kalagh Peak, you need to be physically prepared, properly equipped, and preferably in a group, especially since the path isn’t entirely smooth. Chin Kalagh Peak is not only a beautiful and invigorating destination but also features an attractive route.
Palangchal Refuge
Palangchal Refuge is a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers, located on the path to Palangchal Peak at an elevation of 2,450 meters. To reach the refuge, visitors must travel a 10-km distance from the main square of Darakeh, which takes approximately 2 ½ to three hours. The two-story building offers several amenities, including sanitary services, a dormitory with a capacity of 70 people, a café and restaurant, and a rescue center. Visitors should note that there is a fee to access the refuge and should carry cash due to possible disruptions in Internet and banking services at high altitudes.
Another must-see attraction in Darakeh is the Haft-Howz waterfall, named after the seven natural stone basins that adorn the Darakeh hiking trail. The waterfall is an ideal spot to rest and rejuvenate, with a café nearby bearing the same name.