Bibalan Village

Bibalan village is located in Bibalan Rural District, Kolachay District, Rudsar County, Gilan Province. It lies about 20 kilometers from the center of Rudsar and nearly 85 kilometers east of Rasht, and is considered one of the relatively large villages of the region. According to the 1385 (2006) census, its population was just over 1,172 people (375 households), and local books report figures of up to 1,551 people (485 households). The village has a long history: its first school was founded in 1304 and its tea factory in 1315. It also has an old bathhouse from the era of Reza Shah, which is now at risk of collapse.

Bibalan has long been a base for diverse farming and for olive and citrus orchards, and its main products now include rice, tea, oranges, persimmons and kiwi. The village has notable historical remains, such as the old bathhouse and the remains of the tea factory. Another unique cultural attraction is the "Karnai-zani" ceremony on the day of Ashura, held in the courtyard of the Shrine of the Imamzadehs of Amirbandeh; in this ritual, 5 to 8 horn players (karnachis) create a distinctive solemn and spiritual atmosphere by playing the karna. The word "Bibalan" consists of two parts: "bi," meaning negation, and "balan," meaning trickery or trap. It means "without trickery or deceit," reflecting the honesty and authenticity of the people of this land.

To reach Bibalan, travelers can set out from Rudsar and, after about 20 kilometers, enter Bibalan Rural District. The access road is paved, and the village's internal roads are generally in good condition. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, as the trails are dry and the orchards are lush. Visitors can enjoy the humid nature of Gilan while seeing the tea and kiwi orchards. When visiting, please be respectful, follow the principles of responsible nature tourism, and avoid harming the environment.