Understand

Mt. Damavand: The Majestic Peak of Iran Nestled within the breathtaking Alborz range in northern Iran, Mt. Damavand stands as an emblem of grandeur and adventure. Throughout the months of May to October, trekking and climbing this magnificent peak have become immensely popular, attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe. As winter blankets the area in a shimmering white mantle, Mt. Damavand transforms into a haven for skiing enthusiasts. The slopes offer exhilarating possibilities for winter sports, providing an unforgettable experience for snow lovers of all levels. Whether you seek a challenging ascent or a thrilling descent, Mt. Damavand promises an unforgettable journey amidst awe-inspiring natural beauty. It beckons you to conquer its mighty heights and immerse yourself in the wonders of Iran's rugged landscapes.

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Embark on an epic mountaineering expedition to conquer the majestic peaks of this legendary mountain. With at least 16 thrilling trails leading to its summit, every step taken is a triumph. Prepare for the ultimate challenge as you choose from the four main routes: the southern, western, northern, and northeastern paths. Each route offers its own allure, but the western route is famed for its awe-inspiring sunset vistas. The southern route, on the other hand, stands out as the most popular choice among daring adventurers. To commence your ascent, head to the village of Polur, nestled 2000 meters above sea level, and behold its charming accommodations. The Iranian Mountaineers Association office is your first base camp, where foreign climbers typically pay a climbing fee of $50. However, here's a secret tip: if you prefer to bypass the office and save some cash, there's a discreet dirt road just beyond the village. This road, uphill and less traveled, is perfect for cyclists or those exploring on foot. Once you've passed Polur, continue on the paved road for approximately 10 kilometers until you reach a parking lot, marking the starting point for the southern route. The initial 7 kilometers of this trail are accessible by 4WD vehicles, making it a thrilling and scenic journey. If you've chosen the western route, you can arrange a 4WD vehicle at the base camp for a seamless experience. Traveling from Tehran to Polur is a breeze with a bus ride from the eastern bus terminal in TehranPars. The heart-pumping journey takes around 2 hours, with a ticket cost of 100,000 rials (around $3). From Polur, a taxi ride to the end of the paved road typically costs around 20,000 toman ($6). Alternatively, your hotel can arrange a private car to whisk you all the way to the end of the paved road for approximately 120,000 toman (around 25-30 euro). Tehran Hostel in Tehran is known for providing excellent assistance in organizing this part of your adventure. Southern Route: As you arrive at the parking lot, eager taxi drivers will offer you an exhilarating 4WD ride for the initial 7 kilometers. Brace yourself for an exciting off-road experience as you make your way to base camp 2, situated at an impressive elevation of 3000 meters. From there, it's a challenging but rewarding 3-hour uphill hike to camp 3, the final base camp perched at 4200 meters. If you prefer a lighter load, don't worry; you can opt to have your backpack carried by a trusty donkey. Western Route: For thrill-seekers who choose the western route, remember that passing the base camp without paying the climbing fee is no issue at all. However, arranging transportation to the starting point might pose a small challenge. One option is to hitchhike to the coordinates (35,8790634, 52,0444066) on the paved road, and from there, embark on a memorable hike to the starting point. Be sure to pack plenty of water, as there's only one water source near the nomads' tents along the way. Another water source awaits near the hut (35,9564892, 52,0822861) at 4200 meters above sea level. September is an ideal time for this route, so get ready for an adrenaline-fueled adventure!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish 1: Persian Kebab (Kebab-e Sabzi)The Persian Kebab is a beloved Iranian dish consisting of skewered, grilled meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken) seasoned with onions, tomato paste, saffron, turmeric, and other aromatic herbs and spices. It's typically served alongside rice, grilled tomatoes, and savory herbs like parsley and chives.

Dish 2: Tahchin (Tahchin-e Morgh)Tahchin is a comforting, traditional Persian dish made with basmati rice, cooked in a savory tomato sauce, and layered with tender pieces of chicken, then baked until fragrant and delicious. The dish is often garnished with fried onions, barberries, and a dollop of creamy mast-o-khiar (yogurt mixed with cucumber and walnuts).

Dish 3: Ghormeh Sabzi (Herb Stew)Ghormeh Sabzi is a filling, vegetarian stew characterized by its vibrant assortment of aromatic herbs (such as parsley, coriander, dill, and chives), tender white beans, and melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. This hearty dish is often enjoyed with a side of basmati rice or flatbread.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing