Karkari Waterfall

Karkari Waterfall is one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Ardabil Province, in Meshgin Shahr County. It is one of the most beautiful and at the same time most unique waterfalls in the region. The waterfall lies on the course of the Karkari River, near the summer pasture village of Qirkh Bulagh, south of Meshgin Shahr. It is more than 25 metres high. Meltwater from snow and springs in the summer pastures of Ayqar Arablu, Ajirlu and Jelodarlu in the Karkari Valley feeds the Karkari River, which carries a large volume of water. Its water is used to irrigate the farmland of downstream villages such as Andzaq, Mojandeh and Ahmadabad.

Karkari Waterfall lies on the slopes of the Sabalan Mountains, and as a result it has diverse flora and fauna. Around the waterfall there are many kinds of trees, shrubs and plants, and if you head toward the slopes of Mount Sabalan from any direction, you will see plains full of wildflowers, green mountains, full-flowing rivers and very beautiful waterfalls. Some of the most important trees of this area are oak, hazelnut, beech, willow, alder and walnut, while its shrubs and plants include meadow grasses, wildflowers, mushrooms and ferns. The vegetation around Karkari Waterfall plays an important role in protecting soil and water and regulating the climate. Many kinds of animals live around Karkari Waterfall. Some of the most important animals of the area include wild boar, leopard, brown bear, wolf, fox, hare, squirrel, various birds and many kinds of reptiles and amphibians. The animals of Karkari Waterfall play an important role in the ecological balance of the area.

The best time to visit Karkari Waterfall in Meshgin Shahr depends on your preferences. In general, however, the best time to go is spring and summer. If you visit in winter, be sure to bring mountaineering equipment. The hiking trail to the waterfall is unspoiled, beautiful and scenic, and full of colourful flowers; in some sections you have to wade into the water and cross the river. To reach the waterfall, you can travel the first half of the route by vehicle, but the other half must be covered on foot. Walking this lush, beautiful trail brings a special thrill to every nature lover.