Benchol Lake

Benchol Lake, also known as the "Twin Lakes of Benchol", lies on the slopes of Mount Dalamper in West Azerbaijan Province and is counted among the natural attractions of the province. Benchol Lake consists of two ponds, one small and one large, about 150 meters apart. Mount Dalamper, about 3,500 meters high, is located 45 kilometers southwest of Urmia and 35 kilometers from Oshnavieh. The mountain stands at the zero-point border of Iran, Turkey and Iraq, and from its summit the land of all three countries can be seen.

Benchol Lake is very rich in flora and fauna. Around the lake there are many different kinds of plants and trees, including oak, willow, plane, ash, barberry, blackberry, mushrooms and wildflowers. The vegetation plays an important role in preserving the biodiversity of the area. Astragalus (gon), wild almond and wild sour cherry make up the plant cover of the region, which closely resembles the vegetation of the Zagros mountain range. The Dalamper lake area is home to a variety of animals, including foxes, jackals, eagles, wild goats, snakes and hares. Trout, carp and ducks are among the most important animal species at Dalamper Lake. Some rare and endangered species are also found at the lake.

To reach Benchol Spring Lake, you can take the dirt road from Qaragol village. At the junction at Aghbolagh village, take the asphalt road on the right heading west, and along the Margur road you must cross two passes to reach Dezaj village. From this village, continue west, pass through Kisian village, and you will reach Soleh Dokol village. The road is paved as far as Kisian, and from there on it is a dirt road. This route can be driven with any type of vehicle all the way to the lake. The best time to visit Benchol Lake at Dalamper depends on your taste and the purpose of your trip. In general, however, spring and summer, from Ordibehesht to Mehr, are the best time to travel to this area. In these seasons the weather is warmer and more pleasant, and there is less rainfall. Note that in some parts of the lake the water is deep and swimming is dangerous.