Varjin Protected Area

Varjin Protected Area is one of the attractions of Lavasan, northeast of Tehran, with a pleasant climate, rich and beautiful flora and fauna, full-flowing rivers, numerous springs and lush highlands. Because of its short distance from Tehran, it is one of the well-known summer pasture (yeylaq) areas for day trips. Varjin is a mountainous, cold region and forms part of the Latyan catchment area in the Central Alborz mountains. The maximum elevation of Varjin Protected Area is 3,930 metres, its minimum is 1,560 metres and its average elevation is 2,664 metres.

Most of the vegetation of Varjin Protected Area consists of grasses and milkvetches (astragalus). In the southwest and west highlands of the area, scattered individual juniper trees (Ars, or mountain cypress) and bitter almond shrubs can also be seen. Varjin Protected Area includes 32 species of plants endemic to Iran. Among the most important are barberry, borage, yarrow, mountain wormwood, cornflower, thistle, Shekar Tighal, Shang Babuyeh, field bindweed, bitter flixweed, Armak, mint, sage, mountain tea, mountain tulip, Jeghjeghak, marshmallow and mallow.Notable animal species in the area include the Central Alborz wild sheep (mouflon), wild goat and ibex, leopard, brown bear, wild boar, wolf, hare, porcupine, wildcat, caracal, jackal, fox, weasel, sable, Shang and hyena.

Varjin Protected Area is beautiful in every season of the year. In spring you will see the lovely blossoms of the trees; in summer you will be delighted by the cool air and the tranquillity of the setting; in autumn you will enjoy the colourful scenery of nature; and in winter you can experience exciting play in the snow. However, the best time to visit is summer and spring.