Sorkhrud Wetland

Sorkhrud Wetland, also known as "Shira Wetland", lies about 21 kilometres east of the centre of Mahmudabad. It is set in a beautiful, lush green area, surrounded by rice paddies and farmland. Throughout the year the wetland hosts many migratory birds from other parts of the world, and in the colder seasons in particular it becomes a refuge for a wide variety of species.

From the first days of Azar, a variety of birds, such as wild ducks and geese, begin migrating to Sorkhrud Wetland. The best-known migratory bird here, however, is the whooper swan, which gives the area a special beauty. In recent years, because of a shortage of food around the wetland, the number of migratory birds has declined; even so, it remains one of the best destinations for birdwatching enthusiasts in northern Iran.

The area around Sorkhrud Wetland is a good spot for walking and camping in nature. The wetland lies a short distance from the Mazandaran Sea, also known as the Caspian Sea, and is located in Vazra Mahalleh. Around the wetland there are various ecolodges and traditional guesthouses, and staying in them is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in the local culture of Mazandaran.