Sakanj Waterfall

Sakanj Waterfall, also known as Seh-Kanj Waterfall, is one of the natural attractions of Kerman County in Kerman Province. It lies near the village of Sakanj, about 50 kilometres southeast of the city of Kerman and 15 kilometres east of Mahan. The waterfall sits on the slopes of Mount Sakanj, in the heart of a mountain valley. Thanks to its river, tall rock walls, ancient trees and scenic views, the area is one of the best-known recreation spots around Mahan. The water flowing among the rocks and the riverside vegetation create an atmosphere quite different from the arid landscapes found across much of Kerman Province, making the area an appealing destination for nature lovers. The approach to the waterfall is part of its beauty: along the way, visitors pass the river, plane trees and rock walls, and gradually enter the cool, enclosed space of the canyon.

The main Sakanj waterfall is about 10 metres high, with water dropping down a steep rock face into a natural pool. Beyond this point, the river passes through rocky pools and smaller drops, then continues alongside willow and hawthorn trees. Along the canyon, small waterfalls, large boulders and the river's winding course create picturesque scenery, and enjoying these views is one of the main attractions of the route. To reach the waterfall, you need to enter the canyon from the east side of Sakanj village and follow the river upstream. In places the route is rocky and slippery and requires wading through water. Plane trees and natural shade make the walk cooler, especially on hot days. Even so, the difficulty of the route and the need to cross the riverbed mean this trip is best suited to people able to walk long distances on uneven terrain. Besides its natural scenery, Sakanj Waterfall is also appealing for photographing water and rocks, observing the canyon's vegetation, and enjoying easy to moderate canyoning. How difficult the route is, however, depends on the water level, the weather and each person's ability.

To reach Sakanj Waterfall, first drive from the city of Kerman towards Mahan and the Bam–Kerman road, then take the side road to Sakanj village and continue to the east of the village. Part of the road after the village is unpaved, and if its condition allows, you can drive to the starting point of the hike. Even so, you should check road conditions before setting out. From where you park to the waterfall, the canyoning route continues along the river and, depending on your starting point, pace and the condition of the route, may take from about an hour and a half to several hours. It is therefore best to set aside several hours of the day for your visit. Spring and early autumn, especially Shahrivar and early Mehr if the weather is favourable, can be good times for exploring nature in this area. It is very important to wear footwear suited to water and rocky terrain, bring a spare change of clothes and socks, check the rainfall forecast, and avoid entering the canyon when there is a risk of flash floods. You should also collect your rubbish, avoid damaging trees and plants, and, to protect the waterfall's natural environment, avoid polluting the water or disturbing wildlife.