Tilsareh Canyon

Tilsareh Canyon is one of the most technical and beautiful canyons in northern Iran. It lies in the forested highlands of Daraznou, within the Jahan Nama area of Kordkuy County in Golestan Province. Formed deep within the Hyrcanian forests, the canyon has become a favourite destination for professional canyoneers thanks to its dense vegetation, high humidity, numerous waterfalls and fully technical routes. With moss-covered walls, tall waterfalls and a perennial river, Tilsareh has an untouched, thrilling atmosphere that few other canyons in northern Iran can match. The sound of flowing water, the forest mist and the passage through dense trees give adventure-minded nature lovers a truly distinctive experience.

Tilsareh Canyon has about 19 to 20 technical rappels, and most of them involve direct contact with water. The longest rappel in the canyon is reported to be between 45 and 57 metres, and its most famous waterfall, called the "Shadan Waterfall", is one of the highlights of the route. The canyon is graded V5 A4 IV. Because of the extremely slippery terrain, the large volume of water and the long traverse, it is suitable only for experienced people with a high level of physical fitness. The route includes river trekking, rope rappels, passing through waterfalls and moving along slippery forest paths, so it is not recommended for beginners under any circumstances. The presence of forest wildlife, including bears, along parts of the final footpath at the end of the canyon also helps this area retain its pristine, natural character.

To traverse Tilsareh Canyon, you first travel to Kordkuy County in Golestan Province, then take the forest roads of the Daraznou area to reach the starting point. Cars are usually parked at the beginning of the forest road, and the rest of the way to the head of the canyon is covered by motorcycle, which takes about 40 minutes. After reaching the start of the route, teams enter the river with full equipment and the technical descent begins. A full traverse of the canyon takes about 9 hours, and to manage the schedule better, many groups camp at the canyon entrance the night before. The best time to descend this canyon is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is more stable and the risk of flooding is lower. Given the sensitivity of the Hyrcanian forest ecosystem, all canyoning groups must follow the principles of responsible nature tourism and avoid leaving litter, damaging vegetation or polluting the area's water sources.