Ay Doghmush Dam Lake

Ay Doghmush Dam Lake is located in Mianeh County, East Azerbaijan Province. The dam lies about 20 kilometres southwest of Mianeh and was built to supply agricultural water and control floods. Ay Doghmush is a rockfill dam with a central impervious core, standing 87 metres high from its foundation. The reservoir's volume at normal level is 145.7 million cubic metres, of which 137 million cubic metres is usable storage and 131 million cubic metres is regulated water volume. Behind the dam, a beautiful pool has formed which, together with the artificial seasonal waterfall fed by the canal, creates a stunning view.

The vegetation around the lake is varied and scenic. The hills and roads near the dam are covered with wild plants such as wild artichoke, pennyroyal, rhubarb and mountain mint. This biodiversity, along with the waterfall and the surrounding desert landscape, provides a suitable habitat for the region's birds and insects, which appeals to nature lovers and photographers. The Ay Doghmush Dam waterfall, which pours down from the dam's canal, is about 30 to 40 metres high. On sunny days, fine water droplets striking the rocks form a rainbow, adding a beautiful touch to the area. The waterfall is artificial and seasonal, and at times it may not be visible because the dam's canal is closed.

Ay Doghmush Dam can be reached from Mianeh via the Miandoab road. The best seasons to visit are spring and summer, when the dam's water is at its maximum and the waterfall is flowing. At this time, the cold, dry air of the region becomes milder, and the sound of water and the green scenery, along with the shimmering rainbow droplets, give visitors a soul-soothing experience. Visitors are advised to avoid swimming in the cold water; the canal and river also offer a safe, unspoiled setting for exploring the natural surroundings. When visiting this area, it is very important to follow responsible nature-tourism principles, including not damaging the vegetation, not lighting fires in unauthorised places and collecting all litter to preserve the cleanliness and beauty of the natural environment.