Silakhor Plain

Silakhor Plain is one of the most valuable natural and historical attractions of Lorestan Province and the largest stretch of flat land in the province. It covers a large part of the counties of Borujerd, Dorud, Aligudarz and Nahavand, as well as parts of Malayer. Covering nearly 70,000 hectares, this vast plain is one of the most important centres of farming and orchard cultivation in western Iran, thanks to its fertile soil, abundant water resources and favourable climate. Beyond its natural importance, Silakhor also has a special place in history: archaeological excavations at the historical mounds and cemeteries of the region, including Qaleh Romian Hill and Qaraq Hill, show that people have lived on this plain for about five to seven thousand years. This valuable heritage has made Silakhor Plain one of the most important historical and natural landscapes of Lorestan.

Silakhor Plain is divided into two parts, Upper Silakhor and Lower Silakhor, each with its own distinctive features. Upper Silakhor is known for its lush summer pastures, vineyards, the slopes of Kabirkuh and Garin, and attractions such as the Gamasiab Spring, the Gian Spring and the village of Vanai. Lower Silakhor, by contrast, with its wide farmland, fruit orchards, the Tireh River, Morvak Dam and Hoozian Dam, is regarded as one of the most important agricultural production areas in Lorestan. The sight of wheat, barley and rice fields and of walnut, almond, apple, apricot and grape orchards beside the Zagros Mountains creates beautiful scenery for nature lovers and photographers. The plain also lies on the great Zagros Fault, which gives Silakhor special significance from a geological point of view as well, and it has experienced several major earthquakes throughout history.

Silakhor Plain is easily reached via the Tehran–Khuzestan highway and the roads linking Borujerd, Dorud, Aligudarz and Nahavand, and visitors can reach its natural and historical attractions from different points around the plain. The best time to visit is spring and early summer, when the green fields, blossoming orchards and full rivers are at their most beautiful. Autumn, with the splendid colours of the orchards, is also a good time to travel to the region. When visiting Silakhor Plain, practising responsible nature tourism, avoiding damage to fields and orchards, keeping the environment clean and respecting village life will play an important part in preserving this valuable natural and historical area.