Bandaban Village

Bandaban is one of the beautiful, pleasantly cool areas of Chahardangeh District in Sari County, Mazandaran Province. The village lies 90 kilometers south of Sari, in the heart of the Alborz mountains near the border of Semnan Province, and had a population of about 87 people in 32 households (2016 census). With its pristine nature, mountain setting and stunning views, Bandaban is an attractive destination for nature lovers and anyone seeking adventure in the mountains.

Bandaban is a lush valley with beautiful forest scenery. The surrounding forests include trees such as maple, hornbeam and Persian ironwood/alder, and stretch from towering cliffs down to abundant springs. The Asbehrou River, a tributary of the Tajan or Sefidrud, flows through the village, and the famous "Siyahrisheh" cherry orchards are the main source of income for the villagers. To protect the orchards from bears, residents live in the orchard huts at night. The village has a valuable historical and cultural heritage: the "Divkhaneh" cave-fortress, a hand-carved structure dating to the Parthian or Achaemenid era, is located north of the village. Bandaban's ancient castle, with a 12-meter watchtower and stone walls dating to the Safavid era, when it was used to defend the region against attacks from the sea, was registered as a national monument in 2003.

To reach Bandaban, drive about 60 kilometers from Sari along the mountainous Chahardangeh road. The paved road reaches the vicinity of the village, after which a dirt track continues. The best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the forests and orchards are green and the river is full. In winter the route may be slippery, but the snowy scenery is very attractive. To protect nature and respect the village's culture, responsible tourism is recommended: avoid lighting fires, take care of the orchards and vegetation, carry out your trash, and respect the villagers' way of life.