Gahar Lake

The beautiful Gahar Lake is one of the tourist attractions of Lorestan Province and Dorud County. It is one of the largest permanent freshwater lakes in Iran, located 35 kilometers southeast of the city of Dorud, on the western side of Oshtorankuh, south of the Panbeh Kal Pass and the Tangeh Tapleh gorge, and northeast of Kuh-e Sarsabz. Gahar lies at an elevation of 2,360 meters above sea level, which also makes it one of the highest lakes in Iran. The lake consists of Upper Gahar (small) and Lower Gahar (large). Its area is estimated at about 100 hectares.

Gahar consists of two parts: Big Gahar (Kaleh Gahar) and Little Gahar (Kareh Gahar). Little Gahar Lake is one of the natural gems of Lorestan Province, covering 7 hectares in the heart of the Oshtorankuh Protected Area. About 500 meters long and 150 meters wide, it lies 2 kilometers from Big Gahar and, thanks to its pristine, untouched nature, is a paradise for nature lovers. Big Gahar Lake, also known as Kaleh Gahar, is one of the most beautiful and largest freshwater lakes in Iran. It covers 85 hectares and reaches a depth of 30 meters at its deepest point. With a length of 1,500 meters and a width of 400 to 800 meters, Big Gahar lies hidden like a shining jewel among towering mountains and lush green trees.

Gahar Lake, known as the jewel of Oshtorankuh, is home to a variety of animals. In this area you can see animals such as wild goats, mountain rams, gazelles, leopards, wolves, wild boars, brown bears, hyenas, foxes, jackals and hares. Birds such as eagles, partridges, falcons and see-see partridges also live here. The lake's waters hold a range of aquatic life, including eels, turtles, frogs, and rainbow and brown trout. If you are lucky, you may spot some of these animals on days when there is less traffic. Gahar Lake is not only a habitat for land animals and birds but also provides a suitable environment for many kinds of plants.

The best time to visit Gahar Lake, the jewel of Oshtorankuh, is from mid-Ordibehesht to Tir, when the lake and the hiking trails are beautiful and green. However, in most cases visiting the lake is not permitted until mid-Khordad. The lake water is so clear that in some places you can see the bottom and even fish swimming. The reflection of sunlight on the clear water gives it a turquoise color.