Trek through Damavand’s legendary landscapes
With its majestic peak, mountainous terrain, and wealth of historical and natural attractions, the city of Damavand in Tehran Province is considered one of Iran’s premier tourist destinations.
As one of the most historic cities located on the slopes of the Alborz Mountains, its name is inextricably linked to Iran’s highest summit. The region, famed for its cool climate, stunning mountain scenery, and breathtaking vistas, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and mountaineers alike. This scenic city in Tehran Province has been designated a model tourism area, according to kojaro.com.
Lar Protected Area: It is a major tourist attraction bordering the mountains of Noor (Mazandaran Province) to the north, Mount Damavand to the east and northeast, and Afjeh and Lavasan-e Bozorg to the south. Spanning approximately 73,500 hectares, it was designated a protected area in 1982.
Barf Waterfall: Located in the Lar Gorge east of Lar, this beautiful waterfall, is one of the area’s pristine spots for leisure and recreation.
Slopes of Mount Damavand: Accessed via the Haraz Road, this area is one of Damavand’s most popular destinations. After passing the Polur route entrance, travelers traverse the Lar Plain before being greeted by the magnificent view of the mighty Mount Damavand, a national symbol of resilience. The area’s natural beauty and pleasant climate make it a top choice for weekend getaways.
Jangalak Waterfall: Located seven kilometers east of Damavand, this 35-meter-high waterfall sits at an elevation of 2,320 meters. Accessed via Roodbar Gorge east of the city, the surrounding area is known for its pleasant climate, enhanced by the presence of juniper and walnut trees.
Mosha Plain: Mosha is a village in the central district of Damavand with excellent weather, located six kilometers northwest of Damavand near Haraz Road. The Mosha Plain lies in the Mosha valley at an elevation of 2,250 meters, close to the Abʿali Ski Resort.
Siah Sang Spring: Located in Mosha village, the area surrounding Siah Sang Spring is rich in medicinal plants such as barberry, wild rose, poppy, yarrow, and borage. Unfortunately, the construction of the Mosha Tunnel and the diversion of water flows have recently muddied the spring and diminished the area’s natural beauty.
A’la Spring: Situated in the northwestern heights of Damavand among east–west drainage valleys, it is one of the region’s vital and significant springs. A’la Spring is known for its abundant, sweet water, which adds a unique charm to the surrounding landscape.
Tizab Spring: Located five kilometers north of Damavand in Dasht-e Mazar, this spring’s water is brisk and astringent and is believed to have many therapeutic properties. Locally, it is used to treat skin and digestive ailments. Its name, meaning “Sharp Water,” derives from its sharp and sour taste. Access requires proper mountaineering equipment, as visiting the site without appropriate gear can be dangerous.
Tar Lake: A freshwater lake located 30 kilometers east of Damavand at an elevation of 2,900 meters, Tar Lake has a maximum length of 3.1 kilometers and an average width of 400 meters. Its water level varies seasonally. Once surrounded by thyme vegetation, the area now has sparse plant cover due to recent climatic issues. The lake is suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Havir Lake: Considered a scenic spot in Damavand, this lake is located 500 meters from Tar Lake. It measures approximately 900 meters in length and about 150 meters in width, depending on the season. Both lakes are fed by springs originating from the Qarah Dagh, Siah Chal, and Shahneshin mountains to the north.
Rood Afshan Cave: A unique tourist attraction located at an elevation of 1,945 meters, the cave features a 20-meter-wide entrance and extends 29 meters in length. Its corridors are adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Formed during the Cretaceous period, the cave holds significant geological value. The 800-meter trek to the cave entrance is challenging and requires mountaineering equipment, while exploration inside necessitates proper lighting. It is recommended for experienced hikers seeking adventurous trips.
Burnik Cave: This distinctive cave and landmark is located on the Damavand–Firuzkuh Road in Harandeh village. Reaching the cave requires a two-hour hike from the village. Burnik Cave maintains a consistently cool and pleasant temperature, making it a favored destination for professional cavers during the summer months.
Gerobar Waterfall: Located in the Ruhafza district of Damavand, this waterfall stands at a height of 20 meters. The surrounding area boasts diverse plant life, contributing to its pleasant and cool climate.