Vargineh Va Spring

Vargineh Va Spring (also called Gargin Va) is one of the most important natural and therapeutic attractions in the Dodangeh district of Sari County in Mazandaran Province. It lies near the village of Khoshneshan, within the Gargin Abad hydrotherapy complex. The area is set in the protected Hyrcanian forests on the banks of the Ashk River, and is part of a broad natural zone of about 570 square kilometres. Its location between the Alborz mountains and dense forest gives it a pristine, peaceful atmosphere and has made it a distinctive nature-tourism destination in the region.

Surrounded by broadleaf Hyrcanian forest and the sound of the Ashk River flowing nearby, the spring has a very calm and natural setting. Because of the particular properties of its water, local people believe it has healing effects for some skin conditions and muscle pain such as rheumatism. Around Vargineh Va there are several small and large springs, and because there are so many of them, the area is sometimes called "Chehel Cheshmeh" (Forty Springs). In parts of the area the water can be seen as small waterfalls and surface streams, which eventually flow into the Ashk River. In some sections, facilities such as gazebos, separate pools and simple accommodation are available for visitors.

Vargineh Va Spring can be reached by the roads leading to the Dodangeh district of Sari and the village of Khoshneshan; the final stretch consists of forest and minor roads through the countryside. The best time to visit is spring and summer, when the landscape is at its greenest and the springs are flowing at their fullest. When visiting this protected area, it is very important to follow the principles of responsible nature tourism, including keeping the environment clean, respecting the forest, not damaging the springs and keeping noise down. These practices play an important part in preserving this valuable ecosystem.