Paji Forest

Paji Forest, the forested area around the village of Paji, lies in Dodangeh District of Sari County in Mazandaran Province and forms part of the Hyrcanian forests of northern Iran. The forest stands next to the villages of Paji and Miana and stretches along the Alborz mountain range, where lush greenery, rivers, dense forested slopes and unspoiled scenery combine to create an appealing nature-tourism experience. The village of Paji is about 80 kilometres from the city of Sari. It is surrounded on all four sides by forest, the Ashkrud River and wooded highlands, which together make a charming picture of northern Iran.

The forest cover around Paji includes a variety of Hyrcanian trees. In autumn in particular, their yellow, orange and red colours make a spectacular sight and attract many visitors. The forest is especially known for its Persian ironwood (Anjili) trees, which have strong wood and beautiful leaves and are regarded as one of the symbols of the forests of northern Iran. Nature-tourism activities in this area include walking among towering trees, watching forest streams, listening to birdsong and resting in green open spaces. You can also get to know the lifestyle and culture of the local people around the villages and enjoy their natural products.

To reach Paji Forest from the city of Sari, take the Dodangeh road towards the village of Paji. This mountain and forest road passes through natural scenery and is an appealing tourist experience in itself. The best time to visit the forest is from spring to early autumn, when the weather is milder, trekking conditions are better and the natural light makes the scenery even more pleasing to the eye. Responsible tourism in this area means not littering, respecting wildlife, staying on marked trails, and not cutting branches or damaging plants, so that this unspoiled nature is preserved for future generations.