Khangormaz Protected Area

Khangormaz Protected Area is one of the valuable natural areas of Hamadan Province, in Tuyserkan County. It covers more than 9,389 hectares and lies about 30 kilometres west of Tuyserkan, southwest of the Alvand mountain range. With its mountain scenery, a conical peak known as Mount Khangormaz and its distinctive geomorphology, it is considered one of the province's outstanding environmental areas. It was designated a No-Hunting Area in 1363 (1984) and upgraded to a Protected Area in 1380 (2001).

The vegetation of Khangormaz Protected Area includes a variety of rangeland plants and shrubs, and about 213 plant species from 45 families have been identified there. Six permanent springs and one headwater source in the heart of the area provide a stable water supply for wildlife and contribute to its biodiversity. The area is an important habitat for wild goat and ibex, wild sheep (mouflon and urial), wolf, fox, jackal, hyena, hare, marten and other mammals, and many species of birds and reptiles can also be seen here.

To reach Khangormaz Protected Area, take the road from Tuyserkan to Kangavar, then follow rural roads towards Lashjerd and Upper Konjuran until you reach the entrances to the area. These routes are rough, mountainous dirt roads, so a suitable vehicle such as an SUV is recommended. The best time to visit this nature-tourism area is spring and summer (Farvardin to Mehr, roughly late March to October). During this period the vegetation is at its peak, the springs are full of water, and the mountain air makes it pleasant to walk along the footpaths. While visiting Khangormaz, following the principles of responsible nature tourism helps protect this fragile ecosystem: do not light fires, take your rubbish with you, and respect wildlife habitats and native plants.