Fatatoo Forest

Fatatoo Forest is one of the most valuable remnants of the Hyrcanian lowland forests, located near the village of Fatatoo in Khomam County. Covering about 300 hectares, it is part of the multi-million-year-old natural heritage of the Hyrcanian forests, and its unique vegetation structure gives it special scientific and conservation importance. Fatatoo is one of the few lowland alder woodlands along the Caspian Sea coast that has preserved much of its natural structure, and it is known as a "living botanical museum." The presence of rare tree species and the area's registration as a National Natural Monument have given it a special place among the natural attractions of Gilan.

The forest belongs to the ancient Hyrcanian forest zone, which dates back about 40 million years and is regarded as one of the oldest forest ecosystems in the world. Because it lies in a low-lying area and is enclosed by rice paddies and human settlements, Fatatoo Forest has remained as an isolated island of woodland and, ecologically, is a rare example of Hyrcanian lowland forest. Valuable plant species found in Fatatoo Forest include black alder, Caucasian alder, Persian oak (long-stalked oak), white poplar, Caucasian elm (zelkova) and wild boxwood. The forest is a habitat for birds such as the pheasant, the blackbird and the song thrush, and in winter the surrounding paddies become home to migratory birds. Parts of the forest are flooded in the second half of the year and in early spring, which has created diverse and unique habitats. The plant known locally as "Li," a type of sedge and the raw material for the region's traditional mat weaving, also grows in this forest and plays an important role in local handicrafts.

To reach Fatatoo Forest, take the Rasht–Bandar Anzali road toward the town of Khomam, and after you see the sign for Fatatoo village, turn onto the village road. The forest lies at the end of the village road, and part of the access route is unpaved. Because the area is unspoiled, facilities around the forest are limited, and visitors should bring their own drinking water, food and equipment. The best time to visit is late spring and summer, because large parts of the forest are waterlogged in autumn, winter and early spring. While visiting, please avoid entering sensitive habitat areas, damaging the vegetation and leaving litter in nature, so that this valuable heritage is preserved for future generations.