Tochal Mountain

The Gateway to Iran’s High Mountains from Tehran

Mount Tochal, rising to an altitude of 3,964 meters, stands as one of the most accessible high-altitude peaks in Iran and plays a unique role as the natural skyline of Tehran. Situated directly north of the capital, Tochal is not just a mountain—it’s a year-round recreational escape, a training ground for mountaineers, and a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over one of the Middle East’s largest cities.

What makes Tochal truly special is its proximity to Tehran. Within less than an hour from the city center, both locals and travelers can reach the foothills of the Alborz Mountains, making it an ideal destination for short treks, day hikes, and altitude acclimatization. For those planning to climb Mount Damavand (5,610 m), Iran’s highest peak, Tochal serves as an excellent preparation climb due to its height and ease of access.

 

 

One of the mountain’s most distinctive features is the Tochal Telecabin, one of the longest gondola lifts in the world, stretching over 7.5 kilometers. This lift offers visitors a chance to ascend from the lower elevations near Velenjak up to Station 7 (3,740 m), just a short hike from the summit. This makes Tochal a perfect choice not only for trekkers and climbers but also for those who simply want to enjoy spectacular aerial views of Tehran and the surrounding peaks without a strenuous hike.

Located on the slopes of Mount Tochal, the Tochal Ski Resort is not only the most accessible ski area from Tehran but also ranks among the top 8 highest ski resorts in the world, according to Dopesnow. With its base elevation at 3,550 meters and the top station reaching 3,940 meters, Tochal offers high-altitude skiing with exceptional views over the Alborz range and Tehran below. The resort is directly connected to the Tochal Telecabin, making it one of the few ski areas globally where skiers can ride a gondola from a major city up to world-class snow conditions within an hour. Its elevation ensures reliable snow coverage in the winter months, and for adventurous travelers, it’s a unique opportunity to combine skiing with trekking or acclimatization for nearby high peaks like Mount Damavand.

 

For adventurers with more time or those looking to explore beyond Tochal, the central Alborz range north of Tehran offers a collection of majestic peaks rising above 4,000 meters. These mountains are easily accessible from the capital and provide an excellent alternative to Damavand for mountaineers seeking less crowded trails and equally impressive alpine scenery.

Northern face of Tochal has more attraction than the south. 

Below is A scenic view of Shemshak village nestled in the Alborz Mountains, with the snow-capped northern face of Mount Tochal rising majestically in the background — a perfect blend of alpine charm and high-altitude adventure near Tehran.

 

Two standout peaks in this region are:

• Mount Kolon Bastak (4,178 m): Located near the Dizin Ski Resort, this peak offers a rewarding, non-technical ascent with incredible views of the Alborz range. It’s a favorite for weekend climbers and those acclimatizing for Damavand.

• Sarakchal Mountain Ridge (4,150 m): Spanning the highlands above Shemshak and Darbandsar, this ridgeline offers multiple summits and routes, ideal for both experienced hikers and beginners seeking high-altitude experience close to the capital.

• 

In winter, these mountains form part of Iran’s premier ski belt, with Dizin, Shemshak, and Darbandsar ski resorts providing not only snow sports but also year-round access to the mountains for hikers and climbers.

Whether you’re looking for a quick alpine escape, preparing for a Damavand expedition, or seeking to explore Iran’s highlands near Tehran, Mount Tochal and its neighboring peaks in the central Alborz Mountains offer an unforgettable adventure just a stone’s throw from the urban sprawl.

 

Tochal SKi Resort