Mokhmalkuh Waterfall

Mokhmalkuh Waterfall lies in the Shabikhun Gorge valley, in the northern part of Khorramabad in Lorestan Province. This beautiful seasonal waterfall sits in the heart of the Zagros Mountains, at an elevation of about 2,900 metres on Mokhmalkuh mountain. Its flow begins with the start of the rainy season and peaks in spring and early summer, when the waterfall creates a magnificent, refreshing view.

The vegetation around the waterfall includes broad, green lichens, which are said to have given Mokhmalkuh ("Velvet Mountain") its name; in the rainy season these lichens give the mountain a velvety look. Lower down in the valley and along the access route, you will see oak trees and mountain species such as wild pistachio (baneh) and thyme, which create a cool, shaded setting for walking. Animals such as squirrels, small birds and perhaps even hedgehogs live in this forest habitat.

You can reach Mokhmalkuh Waterfall via the Khorramabad–Aleshtar road, continuing on to Shabikhun Gorge. A paved road leads to the forest park, followed by an easy walk of about 30 to 60 minutes to the waterfall. The best time to visit is from spring to early summer, when the waterfall is full, the lichens are at their most beautiful and the weather is mild. The waterfall can also be visited on summer days, but in winter the trails are colder and become slippery when it rains or snows.