Sorkh Valik Village

Sorkh Valik is a village in Garmab Rural District, Chahardangeh District, Sari County, Mazandaran Province, about 35 kilometres from the county seat. The village lies amid the forests and highlands of the region. According to the 1395 (2016) census, it had a population of 197 people in about 51 households. Residents mainly work in farming, orchard keeping and animal husbandry, and the village's layout reflects traditional rural life in one of the lesser-known parts of northern Iran. The village is named Sorkh Valik because of the abundance of sorkh valik trees that grow in the area.

One of the village's most distinctive features is the natural reservoir ponds (abbandans) around it. They store water in winter and are used for irrigation in summer, and their setting appeals to nature-loving travellers. Simple trails run through the forest and the highlands around the village, making it possible to enjoy easy walks and explore the countryside. Sorkh Valik is also culturally significant because it hosts local rituals, such as the ceremony held on the seventh day of Muharram in the Shuilasht area. The peaceful atmosphere, the mix of forest and pasture, and the chance to get away from the city make the village a appealing choice for short, unspoiled getaways.

To reach Sorkh Valik, first drive from Sari towards Chahardangeh, then continue along a minor forest road towards Garmab Rural District until you arrive at Sorkh Valik. The best time to visit is from mid-spring to early autumn, when the weather is milder and the roads are in better condition. While you are there, responsible nature tourism is strongly recommended: take your litter with you, keep the forest quiet, do not enter orchards or pastures without permission, and respect the local residents. These precautions help preserve the unspoiled environment and make the experience better for everyone.