Mazandaran Province, located along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea in central-northern Iran, is a captivating region.
The Magnificent Nature of Mazandaran
The province boasts diverse natural resources, including vast reservoirs of oil and natural gas. From sandy Caspian beaches to the rugged and snow-capped Alborz Sierra, Mazandaran's landscapes are breathtaking. The province stretches from the lush forests and cascading waterfalls of the Hyrcanian Forests to the picturesque valleys. Notably, it includes Mount Damavand, one of the highest peaks and volcanoes in Asia. Mazandaran is also a major producer of farmed fish, and aquaculture plays a significant role in its economy. Visitors from all over Iran enjoy exploring its attractions, such as the Haraz River and the scenic villages of Ramsar and Kelardasht. Let’s explore some of Mazandaran’s magnificent nature.
Sisangan Forest Park
The Sisangan Forest Park in Mazandaran, a lush northern province of Iran, is a natural gem. Located 27 kilometers from the city of Nowshahr, this park showcases the beauty of lowland forests typical of the region. Its 602-hectare expanse is home to an abundance of box trees, making it the largest natural habitat for these trees in the country.
Beyond its ecological significance, Sisangan Forest Park also serves as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors are drawn to its extraordinary vegetation and the harmonious blend of nature and recreational facilities. The Park boasts amenities such as a coffee shop, restaurant, picnic grounds, a playground for kids, a soccer field, a volleyball field, and even a jet ski and boat club. Whether you're seeking a serene stroll among the trees or an active day by the sea, Sisangan Forest Park caters to all.
Its strategic location adds to its allure: bordered by the Caspian Sea to the north, the Alborz Mountain range to the south, and neighboring villages, Sisangan Forest Park offers a unique blend of coastal and mountainous landscapes. Whether you visit during the lush green of spring or the crisp air of winter, this enchanting forest invites you to explore its natural wonders.
Valasht Lake
Valasht Lake, also known as “Daryache Valasht”, lies nestled in the heart of the northern forests of Iran. This serene lake is located in the southern foothills of the Alborz Mountain range, specifically in the Chalus region of Mazandaran province. The lake's beauty remains hidden until you venture across the valley that cradles it.
Encompassing an area of approximately 15 hectares, Valasht Lake is a freshwater gem. Its crystal-clear waters allow you to observe fish and frog offspring swimming about. During certain months, you can even enjoy boat rides on its tranquil surface.
Accessing Valasht Lake involves two routes: one from Chaloos road (via Marzan Abad) and another from Kelardasht. While the latter route may be rocky and less comfortable due to soil and stones, the lake's allure makes the journey worthwhile.
Despite its natural beauty, Valasht Lake lacks amenities such as restaurants, hotels, and lifeguards. However, the pristine air and pure oxygen, combined with the picturesque surroundings, create a sense of tranquility. It's a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Badab Surt
Badab-e Surt, also known as “Badab Soort”, is a mesmerizing natural wonder nestled in Mazandaran Province, Iran. Located 95 kilometers southeast of the city of Sari and 7 kilometers east of Orost village, this site boasts a range of stepped travertine terrace formations. These terraces have evolved over thousands of years as mineral-rich water from two distinct hot springs cooled and deposited carbonate minerals on the mountainside.
The name "Badab" is a Persian compound, combining “Bād” (meaning "gas") with “āb” (meaning "water"), referring to the springs' carbonated mineral waters. "Soort" is an old term for the Orost village, signifying intensity.
The springs themselves are unique: one contains salty water with medicinal properties, believed to cure rheumatism and certain skin conditions. The other spring has a sour taste and appears predominantly orange due to iron oxide sediments.
Badab-e Surt's terraces are composed of travertine, a sedimentary rock formed during the Pleistocene and Pliocene periods. As water, saturated with calcium carbonate and iron carbonate, reaches the surface, it degases carbon dioxide, depositing mineral carbonates. Over millennia, these deposits have shaped the terraces into a stunning, naturally formed staircase of orange, red, and yellow pools. The surrounding landscape features pine forests to the north and shorter trees and shrubs to the east, while rock quarries dot the western side.
Aubin Waterfall
Aubin Waterfall, nestled in the heart of Mazandaran Province, Iran, is a hidden gem awaiting adventurous souls. After a few hours of driving along forest roads, visitors are rewarded with the sight of this captivating waterfall. The jungle setting adds to its allure, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere. The falls cascade down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery. While the exact height of Aubin Waterfall varies, its beauty remains constant. Nature enthusiasts and photographers alike find solace here, capturing the interplay of water, light, and foliage. Whether you're seeking tranquility or an escape from the bustling city, Aubin Waterfall invites you to immerse yourself in its natural splendor.
Khezr Nabi Hill & Lake
Khezr-e-Nabi Lake, located to the south of Nowshahr city in Mazandaran Province, is a hidden gem cradled amidst the forest. The natives consider this lake sacred, and according to local belief, the Khidr prophet once graced its shores. This sweet water lake covers an area of less than half a hectare, providing a natural refuge for a variety of birds and wildlife. The region's natural landscape is breathtaking, especially during spring, summer, and autumn. The township of Noshahr, where Khezr-e-Nabi Lake resides, lies within the Caspian Sea's northern limits and the Alborz Mountains to the south. While the southern sector experiences a mountainous climate, the northern plains enjoy a temperate and humid environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mazandaran Province stands as a testament to nature's grandeur. From the mist-covered forests of the Hyrcanian region to the cascading waterfalls, rugged mountains, and serene lakes, this province offers a symphony of landscapes. Whether you seek adventure, and tranquility, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Caspian Sea's northern shores, Mazandaran invites you to explore its hidden corners and discover the magic that lies within.
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