Palang Darreh Forest

Palang Darreh Forest is one of the most remarkable natural attractions in Mazandaran Province, in Savadkuh County near the town of Shirgah, and is known as a valuable part of the Hyrcanian forests of northern Iran. With its dense green trees, clear river, natural springs and varied woodland scenery, the area is a popular destination for nature tourism and active outdoor experiences. A rushing river flows through the forest and leads to the Palang Darreh Waterfall. The excellent climate and unique natural landscapes of Palang Darreh Forest have made this area one of the most beautiful attractions in Mazandaran. For nature lovers, this forest is considered one of the most popular in the province.

This extensive forest includes lush woodland trails and shallow, rocky streams. Along the trails you will also find the Palang Darreh Waterfall, a medium-height waterfall that drops into natural pools and adds even more appeal to the experience. On the trails of this area you can stroll beside the cool river, enjoy the shade of the Hyrcanian forest, cycle parts of the route and photograph the forest scenery. Some sections of the route are also suitable for light river trekking, and being in this unspoiled setting gives visitors a complete sense of connection with nature. Although the weather in this area is somewhat humid in summer, thanks to the flowing river and the many springs in Palang Darreh Forest, the air is better than in other parts of Mazandaran. From the first days of the month of Ordibehesht, conditions become suitable for swimming in the Palang Darreh River, but in the heat of summer, swimming in the river and in the pool of the Palang Darreh Waterfall is even more enjoyable. The Palang Darreh Waterfall is located in the forest, along the course of the river. If you follow the river through the forest, you will reach an eight-metre waterfall that pours onto a rocky pool.

To date, animals such as hares, jackals, wolves, foxes, wild boar, leopards, wildcats, hedgehogs, bats, snakes and tortoises have been seen in this area. Birds such as quail, partridge, eagles, greenfinches, hoopoes, owls, swallows and see-see partridge are also among the wildlife of Palang Darreh. No attacks by wild animals have been reported in this forest so far; however, for your own safety it is best not to go deep into the forest and to leave before dark. In addition, if you plan to camp in the forest, pitch your tent as close to the main road as possible. There are no facilities near the waterfall or inside the forest, but within a few kilometres you can find restaurants, accommodation and the supplies you need. For this reason, if you want to go to the waterfall and stay in the forest, you must travel well equipped. People planning to stay overnight or have a picnic in particular should bring everything with them.

To reach Palang Darreh Forest, simply drive from the town of Shirgah toward the side road next to the Natural Resources police post; about 13 kilometres of dirt road through forest scenery will take you to the start of the walking trail. Walking the route to the waterfall and the forest sections usually takes one hour, and with proper planning it can be done as a one-day nature outing. The best time to visit Palang Darreh is from late spring to early autumn, especially on hot summer days, when the cool river water and the shade of the trees make for a more pleasant experience. Practising responsible nature tourism, such as not leaving litter, respecting the forest ecosystem and using designated areas for fires and camping, helps preserve this valuable area for future generations.