Kolza Plain (Canola Fields)

The Kolza Plain in Rudbar County, Gilan Province, is one of the region's most distinctive natural and agricultural sights. In spring, especially in Ordibehesht and Khordad, the fields turn golden. These plains lie in the Shirkuh highlands and around villages such as Estalakhjan, Khaskol, Kalayeh, Nosfi, Rudabad, Mian-Lat, Ilat-e Ubeh, Fathkuh, Shahran, Totkabon, Rostamabad and Darestan, and are known as the hub of canola production in Gilan Province.

Besides supplying high-quality edible oil, canola grown in this area is also used as a source of concentrate for livestock feed. This oilseed plant is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and contains no cholesterol, giving it high nutritional quality. Its cultivation has been expanded in Rudbar County in line with the Ministry of Agriculture's policies to reduce the country's imports of edible oil. The canola fields of Rudbar are important not only for agriculture but also as a natural and tourist attraction.

In spring, travellers and nature photographers visit these plains to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the yellow canola blossoms. However, local farmers have asked visitors not to damage the fields and to avoid trampling the canola plants, so that these natural and economic resources are preserved. The plains can be reached via the Rasht–Rudbar road. After reaching Rostamabad, continue towards Totkabon and you will arrive at the village of Shirkuh, the main destination for the Kolza Plain. The best time to visit is the first weeks of spring, especially from late Farvardin to mid-Ordibehesht, when the flowers are in bloom and the landscape is entirely golden.