Sarkachal Peak

Sarkachal Peak is one of the most popular summits in the Central Alborz range. Thanks to its strategic location and beautiful views, it attracts many climbers every year from Tehran and other parts of Iran. Easy access from the capital, the possibility of a one-day ascent, and the magnificent view of the other peaks of the Central Alborz from its summit are among the reasons for Sarkachal's popularity.

Sarkachal 1, at 4,210 metres, together with its secondary summits Sarkachal 2 (4,152 metres) and Sarkachal 3 (4,124 metres), stands on an east-west ridge north of Shemshak and the village of Routeh. The eastern end of this ridge connects via the high Varzab Pass (4,020 metres) to Borj Peak and then to Khalno Peak. To the north, the peak overlooks the Daryuk Valley and the Velayat Rud River, and to the west the ridge runs on to Kolunbastak Peak. To the south, it connects via the Lajani Pass to Pinasum Peak and Abak Peak.

The main route to the summit of Sarkachal is the south ridge, which starts near the Shemshak chairlift station and the village of Sepidestan. Along this route is a mountain hut called Lajani Hut, built in 1985 (1364 in the Solar Hijri calendar). The hut offers a safe place to shelter during the ascent. Sarkachal is usually climbed by this route, which is easier to reach because the chairlift station is nearby and the route starts from the surrounding villages. Because Sarkachal and Kolunbastak lie on the same ridge, it is also common to climb Kolunbastak first via the Dizin Pass and then continue along the ridge to the Sarkachal summits. This route lets climbers reach several peaks of the area in one continuous ascent and makes for an exciting mountaineering experience in the region.