Embracing nature, heritage in Nater village of Kelardasht
Sometimes, the fatigue and daily challenges of life make you contemplate packing your bags and escaping from the hustle and bustle as well as the summer heat. Choosing this escape depends entirely on your personal perspective towards nature. Some individuals find solace in the vastness of the desert, while others derive joy from immersing themselves in the lush, green surroundings.
If you have traveled along the Chalous road, you undoubtedly carry fond memories of this scenic route. You may have driven this road numerous times without fully realizing the enchanting hidden sections and picturesque villages it holds. In this article, we aim to introduce you to one of the gems along Chalous road — Nater village — as a remarkable tourist destination, IRNA wrote.
In the local dialect, the word Nater translates to guardian, referring to the village’s strategic vantage point overlooking the expansive Kelardasht plain, Mazandaran Province. Interestingly, some sources interpret Nater to mean “abundant water,” a nod to the presence of 44 mineral springs scattered throughout the area.
To reach Nater village, begin your journey on the Chalous road and travel 50 kilometers from the city of Chalous. Then, approximately four kilometers before Marzanabad, you will turn onto a side road that offers a relatively smooth and accessible path. As you continue on this 35-kilometer stretch, prepare to be enchanted by the legendary landscapes that surround you until you finally arrive at the charming village of Nater.
Life, livelihood and architecture
Local inhabitants proudly recount that the village’s history stretches back approximately 2,500 years. Based on these accounts, the majority of Nater’s residents are migrants from Tonekabon who settled here generations ago. Until recently, the architectural style of the houses in Nater reflected traditional methods, constructed with a blend of clay mortar, stone, and wood. Today, parts of the village have undergone restoration, blending the charm of the old with modern comforts.
The people of Nater village largely engage in livelihoods tied to the village’s verdant and flower-rich environment, primarily focusing on livestock breeding and beekeeping. These activities provide the main sources of income and sustenance for the locals.
Natural beauty
Situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters in a mountainous area, Nater village experiences a climate that can be quite cold, making it less suitable for tourists who are not accustomed to chilly weather conditions, especially during winter. The most favorable season to visit and enjoy the refreshing air as well as the lush greenery of the village is undeniably summer.
As previously mentioned, owing to its mountainous location, Nater boasts a unique climate that supports the growth of various medicinal plants. This botanical richness adds to the village’s allure for nature enthusiasts and herbal remedy aficionados alike.
Nater village also features numerous beautiful springs characterized by their cool, pure water that offers visitors a chance to savor the authentic taste of life itself. According to local villagers, many of these springs possess healing properties and are traditionally believed to aid ailments related to the kidneys, including kidney stones.
Surrounding Nater village are delightful expanses of green pastures and dense forests, perfect for camping, picnicking, or simply indulging in photography.
Just three kilometers from the village is a magnificent waterfall, renowned for the majestic sounds it produces and its crystal-clear, cool waters — an attraction that holds special appeal for tourists.
Visiting and staying
Accommodation options in the village include eco-lodges that provide an authentic and comfortable stay. Alternatively, visitors can also find lodging in nearby towns such as Chalous or Marzanabad. For those who have a deep love for nature, camping collectively near the village offers a wonderful way to rest, unwind, and fully immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area.
This combination of natural splendor, historical significance, and welcoming local culture makes Nater village a truly special destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.