Hezar Jarib Protected Area

Hezar Jarib Protected Area covers about 6,195 hectares in the south of Behshahr County in Mazandaran Province and extends to the borders of Golestan and Semnan provinces. Part of the valuable Hyrcanian forests, the area was registered as a protected area by the Department of Environment in 1380 (2001). With its pristine landscapes, rich biodiversity and mild, semi-humid climate, Hezar Jarib has become one of the most beautiful spots in northern Iran for nature lovers.

The vegetation of Hezar Jarib Protected Area consists mainly of broadleaf forests, including species such as beech, oak, hornbeam, boxwood, Persian ironwood, wild medlar, mountain barberry, wild apple and cherry plum. Medicinal and ornamental plants such as borage, thyme, poppy and violet are also abundant here. This dense vegetation provides a safe habitat for valuable animal species such as red deer, roe deer, wild goat and wild sheep, leopard, brown bear, wild boar, fox, jackal, porcupine, wildcat and forest marten, as well as many kinds of birds, including chukar, see-see partridge, kestrel and the sarghapeh.

The altitude of the area varies, ranging from about 1,000 to 2,500 metres above sea level. The best time to visit Hezar Jarib is spring and autumn, when nature is at its most beautiful and the cool, pleasant weather gives visitors the chance to enjoy the forest scenery and wildlife. The main access route to the area is through the village of Mohammadabad, south of Behshahr.