Ab-bandan Ahlam

The Ahlam Ab-bandans are one of the lesser-known natural attractions in Mahmudabad County, in Mazandaran Province. They lie near the village of Ahlam, along the Mahmudabad–Nur road. About 11 kilometres from the town centre, the area is part of an old, historic district whose roots go back to earlier periods. The village of Ahlam is known by several spellings and pronunciations, including Ahlam, Ahlom and Ahlem, and in the past it was also referred to as Elham and Ein-ol-Ham. The presence of several ab-bandans (traditional water reservoirs) has made the area one of the most notable places in the region for local water resources.

One of the most important features of the Ahlam Ab-bandans is their number: the village has about 14 ab-bandans that hold water year-round, with depths ranging from 3 to 6 metres. They are fed by sources such as the Haraz River, seasonal rainfall, surface runoff and drainage from the land upstream. Some of the ab-bandans lie next to the forest, and the striking combination of water and vegetation creates a very pleasant setting for visitors. The area is also considered a good place for fishing, and angling is common here.

To reach the Ahlam Ab-bandans, take the Mahmudabad–Nur road and, once you reach the area of Ahlam village, turn onto local tracks; the first section is paved and the rest is a dirt road. Thanks to relatively easy access, good mobile coverage and open natural surroundings, the area is a good choice for light camping and day trips. The best time to visit is spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and nature is at its most beautiful. Since there is litter in some spots, practising responsible nature tourism and taking your rubbish with you is essential to preserving this valuable environment.