Dasht-e Havij in Iran Dasht-e-Havij or Gor Chal plain, at an altitude of 2,700 m, is situated 400 meters above Afjeh village in Iran. It is one of the most famous attractions in the Lavasanat district (northeast of Tehran in the central Alborz Mountains). Havij means Carrot and Dasht-e Havij means literally a ‘big carrot field’. There are various legends about this name’s origin, which probably indicate that large parts of this vast land were sown with carrot seeds. Today, there is no sign of anything left to reinforce it. Gor Chal in ancient Persian means fireplace, being the combination of two words; Gor means fire and Chal means place. It is said that it got its name for it being so hot compared to the surrounding places being so cold, but there is no evidence to support this assertion. Dasht-e Havij is surrounded by a cluster of high-altitude peaks between 3,000 – 4,000 m which protects this area from the wind. During the Safavid dynasty (400 years ago), it was an important hunting area with some beautiful cascades called Passchoobak, Saboosetan, and Charand. A couple is still in existence, depending very much on the snowfall of that year. In addition, there are numerous maple trees and, of course, a variety of fruit trees in this unspoiled region. The remains of Safavid Caravansaries can be seen along the path at the end of the valley, near the rock wall. There is also an old bath dating back to the Safavid era which is, surprisingly, still in use and is presently enjoyed by rural people. The Qajar dynasty (200 years ago) used this path to reach the Lar National Park going through the countryside. From Lar, there was an ancient mule road stretching towards the Caspian Sea. 3 Peaks in
Dasht-e Havij in Iran Dasht-e-Havij or Gor Chal plain, at an altitude of 2,700 m, is situated 400 meters above Afjeh village in Iran. It is one of the most famous attractions in the Lavasanat district (northeast of Tehran in the central Alborz Mountains). Havij means Carrot and Dasht-e Havij means literally a ‘big carrot
Azad Kuh Mountain Azad Kuh Mountain, with a giant rocky summit, is one of the highest peaks in Iran and is located in the high central Alborz mountains. Azad means ‘free’ and Kuh means ‘mountain’. The free mountain might be the local name, due to it being cone-shaped, so dissimilar from the other surrounding mountains. If you assume a line from Tehran city to the north, in the direction of “Noshahr city”, Azad Kuh is located somewhere in the middle. The three faces of the summit, north, east, and west, are surrounded by steep rocky walls that are more than 500 meters tall. In the summer, there is no need to use any technical equipment for climbing. The mountain is located in the Alborz Markazi protected area where there are different types of flora and fauna, various species of birds, and a broad range of wildlife. MT. Azad Kuh Ascend is one of the treks we prepare to reach the peak, suiting the most experienced hikers during summertime. https://www.adventureiran.com/10-best-off-the-beaten-path-hiking-trails-in-iran/
Azad Kuh Mountain Azad Kuh Mountain, with a giant rocky summit, is one of the highest peaks in Iran and is located in the high central Alborz mountains. Azad means ‘free’ and Kuh means ‘mountain’. The free mountain might be the local name, due to it being cone-shaped, so dissimilar from the other surrounding mountains.
Highlands of Talesh in Iran Talesh also spelled Talysh and Talish, is a region in northwest Iran, west of the Alborz Mountain range along the southwest of the Caspian Sea. The Talesh area is believed to be the place where the Aryan People first settled (They are Indo-European people who moved down from, what are today, the Russian steppes to Europe, Iran, Central Asia, and northern India in the second millennium BC). It is also said to be the birthplace of Zoroaster, the prophet of the ancient Persian religion, Zoroastrianism. Talesh has a sub-tropical climate with a lush green landscape. The region can be divided into two parts, the lowlands, and the highlands. The lowlands lie along the fertile coastal plain of the Caspian Sea and are abundant with rice paddies and orchards. The highlands constitute almost three-quarters of the area of Talesh and are covered by dense deciduous forests and meadows. The Talesh massif forms a 300 km long natural barrier against the drier climate to the south and west. Its highest peak, Bagharo Dagh, is at an altitude of 3,200 meters. The people of Talesh have their own distinct language and culture which have been preserved over the centuries by the remoteness of their land. A great number of them are pastoralists and semi-nomadic. They migrate to the highlands with their herds of sheep and goats every spring to pasture. They live in wooden houses or a kind of fixed tent, called Kapar, in their summer encampments. During this undiscovered superb trek, we will experience their genuine hospitality firsthand by staying and eating with them or camping next to them. Talesh has wonderful mountainous areas and its virgin and intact nature is a charming place for those eager to immerse themselves in it. Talesh is situated 140
Highlands of Talesh in Iran Talesh also spelled Talysh and Talish, is a region in northwest Iran, west of the Alborz Mountain range along the southwest of the Caspian Sea. The Talesh area is believed to be the place where the Aryan People first settled (They are Indo-European people who moved down from, what are
Train Traveling in Iran Iran Train Journeys is one of the special interest tours that attract many visitors. As you may know, there are numerous railroads in Iran in each corner of the country. The train traveling in Iran will allow you to enjoy both exciting adventures as well as amazing attractions across the country. The trains can take you everywhere you may wish to go. There are a lot of stations along the railway line, where you can either get on or off the train to visit the area. In addition, Iran has very high-quality daytime and night trains that cover most of the popular routes. There are seven main railroad tracks going in different directions, starting from Tehran. Other major cities also connect with each other via these railroad lines. The first Iran train track was from Tehran to Gorgan city going to the north and southeast of the Caspian Sea. This route is one of the most beautiful of Iran’s railroads, which passes through spectacular landscapes, canyons, the stunning Alborz Mountains, and the Hyrcanian Forests. The second route is from Tehran to Mashhad city in the northeast. As Mashhad is one of the principal cities of Iran, as well as a religious destination, many pilgrims and locals use this train track throughout the year. The third railroad track is to the northwest of Iran, between Tehran and Tabriz city, which conveniently connects to the Turkish railroad. The fourth route to the southwest runs from Tehran to Khorramshahr city. This train passes Ahvaz city, the capital of Khuzestan province, and is one of the earliest rail routes in Iran. This city was also home to one of the oldest and major oil reserves. To make this train journey even more interesting and appealing, it passes through
Train Traveling in Iran Iran Train Journeys is one of the special interest tours that attract many visitors. As you may know, there are numerous railroads in Iran in each corner of the country. The train traveling in Iran will allow you to enjoy both exciting adventures as well as amazing attractions across the country.
Tehran Mountain Biking Numerous mountains surround the area North of Tehran City with heights over 3,000 to 4,000 meters making perfect centers for selected adventure activities such as mountain biking. There are protected areas and national parks situated in the central part of the Alborz Mountain range. Varjin, Alborz-e Markazi protected areas, and Lar National Park are located northeast of Tehran and are just perfect for mountain biking. So far, the majority of Iran’s visitors have not received sufficient information about these regions. They travel to Iran believing they must go far afield for mountain biking, while near Tehran, in the heart of central Alborz, there are many areas for all types of mountain biking. There are various options for both moderate riders and advanced downhill bikers. There are also a number of districts for cycling in the northeast of Tehran. The biking terrains also vary depending on the region. They are a combination of asphalt, dirt, single-track, and age-old mule routes. In spring, the villages in Central Alborz are particularly picturesque, not only are they surrounded by different species of plants and flowers, but it is also interesting to observe the water level rising in the rivers from the melting snow. Cycling in Lavasanat countryside - Northern Tehran is one of the moderate mountain biking tours we offer in the spring as well as the Single-Track MTB in northern Tehran in the Alborz Mountains. During the summer, when most of the regions have hot temperatures, we can recommend a few trails in high altitudes to avail of the best weather for mountain biking. As mentioned, there are some mountains above 3,000 m in northern Tehran, which are ideal for this sport. Mountain Biking alongside Shemshak ski resort, a moderate short mountain biking tour in the high altitude of central
Tehran Mountain Biking Numerous mountains surround the area North of Tehran City with heights over 3,000 to 4,000 meters making perfect centers for selected adventure activities such as mountain biking. There are protected areas and national parks situated in the central part of the Alborz Mountain range. Varjin, Alborz-e Markazi protected areas, and Lar National
Persian Gulf Islands Iran is not a destination for beach holidays, instead, it is a perfect destination for those who would like to experience something quite unrivaled. In the past, nobody thought the Iranian Islands, such as the Persian Gulf islands, perhaps unheard of by many people, would be popular for international travelers. This was due to the lack of proper marketing and insufficient information in the international press and media. Travelers who had already visited our islands managed to spread the news by word of mouth to friends about the untravelled and unspoiled routes in Iran creating quite an interest. These islands are special destinations during late autumn, winter, and early spring. Nowadays the Persian Gulf Islands are far better known than previously, where most of the local houses and guest houses are full during the winter. It is worth noting that a number of travelers visiting these islands are foreigners. There are numerous islands throughout the Persian Gulf. Three of these, Qeshm, Hormuz, and Hengam- located south of Bandar Abbas city- are the most popular and fairly close to each other. The main and the biggest one is Qeshm which resembles the shape of a dolphin. It is famous for its mango forests, an amazing salt cave, a spectacular canyon, and diving centers. There is also a Portuguese castle in the town. Hormuz Island is renowned for its glorious beaches. There are strikingly rugged rocks along the coastline which make this island so unique and distinctive. It is also called Colorful Island, due to the various colors of the soil. This exquisite island is ideal for those who enjoy countless types of adventure activities, although trekking, boating, and mountain biking are the most popular activities pursued. https://www.adventureiran.com/hormuz-island/ Hormuz Islan Hengam Island is another interesting and picturesque island
Persian Gulf Islands Iran is not a destination for beach holidays, instead, it is a perfect destination for those who would like to experience something quite unrivaled. In the past, nobody thought the Iranian Islands, such as the Persian Gulf islands, perhaps unheard of by many people, would be popular for international travelers. This was
Zardkuh Mountain in Iran Zardkuh Mountain Chain, the name of a sub-range of the Zagros Mountain range, stands in the center of Zagros and is one of the most popular mountains in the entire Zagros Range in Iran. It is also spelled Zard Kouh, Zad Koh, Zardkuh, Zarduh Kuh, and Zard Kuh-e Bakhtiari. In Persian, Zard Kuh means "The yellow mountain". The mountain is located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province in western Iran. Zardkuh is near the two famous cities of Shahr-e-Kord and Koohrang and is one of the most beautiful places in Iran. Karoon and Zayandeh-rud rivers are the two major rivers in the country originating from ZardKuh Mountains. There are a number of mountains over 4,000 m in this mountain chain such as Haft Tanan 4,019m, Shah-e-Shahidan 4,180m, Ab-Sefid 4,050m, Koloonchin (Do-Zardeh) 4,221m, and Khersan 4,050m. There is no specific name for Zardkuh peak in the entire Zardkuh mountain chain. However, most people, even local climbers, mistakenly refer to it as Zardkuh’s peak, “Koloonchin”, because it is the main summit in this chain. This mountain chain has several glaciers. The two main highest mountains of Zardkuh (Shah-e Shahidan and Koloonchin) formed the massive glacier which is the source of water for the two rivers of Kuhrang and Bazoft. Both these rivers are Karun river branches. Karun river is the longest river in Iran and is one of the most important sources of water for the country. Zardkuh Mountains are the main center for climbers from all over Iran during summer. The mountains are rich in various species of plants and wild animals making them even more attractive and spectacular. Zardkuh is also a key ski area for travelers. Chelgerd Ski Resort is located in Chelgerd town which is 200 km away from the west
Zardkuh Mountain in Iran Zardkuh Mountain Chain, the name of a sub-range of the Zagros Mountain range, stands in the center of Zagros and is one of the most popular mountains in the entire Zagros Range in Iran. It is also spelled Zard Kouh, Zad Koh, Zardkuh, Zarduh Kuh, and Zard Kuh-e Bakhtiari. In Persian,
The Caspian Sea North of Iran The Caspian Sea is the largest lake in the world, situated in south-eastern Europe and south-western Asia. It is surrounded by 5 different countries, Kazakhstan, Russia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Iran. The Sea is home to a wide range of species. More than 850 different animals and at least 500 different types of plants live in this sea. However, the diversity of species can be considered almost too low for the size of this water body, most of them being indigenous like caviar. In Persian, the Caspian Sea is called Daryaye Kahzar, which is doubtlessly one of the most beautiful parts of Iran. In the summertime, millions of people from all over the country, especially Tehran, travel to this coast. In Iran, it is also known as Shomal-e Iran meaning Northern Iran, an area along the coast of the Sea. The forested coastal plains rise up to the Alborz Mountains. This region consists of the three provinces of Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan, each with plenty of attractions. The climate of the southern Caspian Sea is perfect for agriculture. There is an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and herbs as well as rice and tea, so important to Iranian culture. Northern Iran, to the south of the Sea, is the rainiest region. In addition, the area is located in the northern part of the Alborz Mountain Range with a lot of high-altitude mountains, where melted snow has created splendid rivers. Furthermore, there are many exquisite dense forests between the Alborz Mountains and the Caspian Sea. One of the most famous is the Hyrcanian Forests, registered on the list of UNESCO natural sites. There is also another UNESCO site in this region. Gonbad-e Qabus tower is a UNESCO world heritage site, being the tallest pure-brick tower in
The Caspian Sea North of Iran The Caspian Sea is the largest lake in the world, situated in south-eastern Europe and south-western Asia. It is surrounded by 5 different countries, Kazakhstan, Russia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Iran. The Sea is home to a wide range of species. More than 850 different animals and at least 500 different
Alamut Valley in Iran Alamut is the name of a huge valley located on the western edge of the Alborz mountain range, northeast of Qazvin province, Iran. It lies beneath the southern side of the Alborz mountains, between the dry plains of Qazvin province in the south and the densely forested slopes of Mazandaran province, south of the Caspian Sea. The Alamut mountain region was potentially perfect for castle construction due to its height and inaccessibility, providing a natural built-in defense structure against invaders. The Ismailis built two citadels in the Alamut Valley, famous for their enormous size. Ismailis are a branch of Shia Muslims who believe in seven Shia Imams (e.g. seven heavens, seven continents, seven orifices in the skull, seven days in a week, etc.) Hassan-e Sabbah built the castles of Alamut and Lambsar in Alamut Valley. As he lived in the Alamut Castle for many years, it is also known as Hassan Sabbah’s Castle. He was an Ismaili messenger who founded a community in the Alborz Mountains in the late 11th century. Sabbah used the Alamut Castle as the main command center for a decentralized Persian uprising against the Seljuk Turks. He founded a group of fadayeen (hermits) whose members are known in western literature as the Hashshashin or "Assassins". Alamut Castle is located in the Moalem Kalayeh district of Qazvin province. It is situated close to a village called Gazor Khan on its northeastern side. The castle’s height is 2,163 m., built on a 220m cliff. The castle dates back to the 11th century. The cultural landscape of Alamut has been added to the tentative list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Since 2007, it is still waiting for its inscription. Freya Stark was a British traveler who explored the Valley of Alamut. She
Alamut Valley in Iran Alamut is the name of a huge valley located on the western edge of the Alborz mountain range, northeast of Qazvin province, Iran. It lies beneath the southern side of the Alborz mountains, between the dry plains of Qazvin province in the south and the densely forested slopes of Mazandaran province,
Alborz-e Markazi Protected Area Alborz-e Markazi Protected Area is one of the biggest protected areas in Alborz Mountain Range observed by the Department of Environment of Iran. The area starts north of Tehran city and stretches to the Caspian Sea. It is situated in three provinces of Tehran, Alborz, and Mazandaran. The whole area is around 400,000 hectares and is home to 48 species of mammals, 156 species of birds, 1,400 different species of plants, and 26 species of reptiles who live in this area. It is one of the main sources of water as there are many rivers in this region. The most famous mountains of Central Alborz, above 4,000m, are located in this protected area. Mount AzadKuh 4,400m, Mount Kolonbastak 4,150 m, and Mount Sarakchal 4,250m are its most famous peaks. In addition, Abali Ski resort, the first ski resort in Iran, built around 60 years ago (1960), is located in Alborz-e Markazi protected area. The main ski resorts of Dizin, Shemshak, and Darbandsar are also found here. Adventure Iran is one of the pioneer tour operators focusing on this region to conduct and create action-packed tours in Iran. Short and long mountain trekking, Mountain biking, and Ski touring are a variety of Adventure Iran tours that are carried out during the most suitable period for each activity throughout the year. A couple of tours with fixed departure dates are included in Adventure Iran Group Tours too. Due to the high altitude, the temperature and climate vary in each season. We, therefore, arrange appropriate trips for each season. One of the most popular moderate treks is Hike in Iran through off the beaten tracks which is one-week trekking in the Central Alborz Mountains and includes several protected areas such as Alborz Markazi protected area. For Mountain
Alborz-e Markazi Protected Area Alborz-e Markazi Protected Area is one of the biggest protected areas in Alborz Mountain Range observed by the Department of Environment of Iran. The area starts north of Tehran city and stretches to the Caspian Sea. It is situated in three provinces of Tehran, Alborz, and Mazandaran. The whole area is
