Imagine stepping away from the endless desert and being greeted by Shirkooh's breathtaking beauty. With lush spring meadows, sparkling mountain springs, and magical starry nights, it’s a place that effortlessly makes you forget the sandy sands beneath your feet!
Shirkooh in Yazd rises from Iran’s vast desert like a cool, verdant dream from the earth. This mountain, with its lofty summit and slopes covered in trees and clear springs, forms a striking contrast with the surrounding desert land.
Shirkooh, at an elevation of 4,075 metres, is the second-highest peak in Yazd province and is surrounded by desert. Located in central Iran, the mountain is composed of limestone and sedimentary rock, and its slopes are covered with native medicinal plants.
Cool air, valleys, waterfalls and sweeping natural views have made this area a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Although sometimes described as an isolated mountain among Iran’s single peaks, in reality Shirkooh is part of the Zagros range. If you love nature, adventure and a distinctive ascent, Shirkooh is an outstanding choice.
Reaching the summit is not easy, but when you stand on its peak and look down on the Yazd desert, all your fatigue will vanish.
Every year many climbers travel to Shirkooh, and there are several routes to the summit that attract experienced mountaineers. The mountain’s popularity stems from its variety of natural attractions and the presence of mid-route shelters.
Shirkooh is also listed among the world’s 1,600 noteworthy peaks and is one of the 31 peaks in the Simorgh project, where climbers aim to summit one high peak from each of Iran’s 31 provinces.
Summit elevation: 4,075 metres
Base (trailhead) elevation: 2,490 metres
Geographic location: Yazd Province, Taft County, Deh-Bala village
Best seasons for ascent: winter and spring
Shirkooh is located in Yazd Province, Taft County, in the village of Deh-Bala. From the north it reaches Yazd city and the central district of the province and Sanych village; from the northeast it borders Taft County; to the south it adjoins Bafq County; to the east it meets desert areas; and to the west it borders Meybod County and surrounding villages and the Abarkooh desert.
Generally, this mountain range is encircled by the deserts around Yazd, Meybod and Bafq.
You can reach Shirkooh by road, rail or air.
The best choice depends on your travel goals and preferences. Many prefer driving because they like to stop in towns on the way and visit attractions en route.
If you start from Tehran, take the Tehran–Qom highway and then continue toward Yazd.
After arriving in Yazd, continue toward Taft and then toward Deh-Bala. Driving from Tehran to Shirkooh by ordinary private car typically takes about 7–8 hours.
Main roads are paved, and you can reach nearby villages even in winter by normal passenger cars. Once you arrive at Deh-Bala, however, roads turn to dirt and steep tracks. These unpaved sections become especially difficult and slippery in rainy or snowy seasons. Therefore, in those conditions using off-road vehicles such as pick-ups or 4WDs is advised; these vehicles handle steep, muddy tracks better and are preferable during wet weather.
Dirt tracks become very slippery and muddy in rain or snow, so off-road vehicles with suitable tires are the best choice. Don’t forget to carry tire chains in cold seasons.
The distance from Yazd to Shirkooh is 51 kilometres and takes about 1 hour by car.
Travel time and distance may vary depending on your start point in Yazd, traffic and weather conditions.
The distance from Baft (Kerman province) varies depending on the route you choose. From Sirjan, it’s approximately 465 km (about 5 hours 50 minutes), or via Bardesir, roughly 490 km (around 6 hours 10 minutes). On average, travel time from Baft to Shirkooh ranges between approximately 5 hours 40 minutes and 6 hours 15 minutes.
Travel time from Tehran depends on route choices, starting point, traffic and stops.
On average, travel from Tehran to Shirkooh takes between 7 hours 30 minutes and 8 hours 45 minutes, with a distance of approximately 670–758 kilometres depending on route.
The best time to visit the Shirkooh summit depends on several factors. Meteorologically, spring (Farvardin–Ordibehesht / March–May) and autumn (Mehr to mid-Aban / late September–early November) are among the best months.
In terms of cost, autumn and winter are more economical due to lower demand for lodging and transport; Nowruz (Persian New Year) and summer see higher visitor numbers and costs. Nowruz is the busiest period.
The ideal climbing season varies with each climber’s skill and taste.
Overall, spring is the best season for ascent. For experienced climbers seeking challenge, winter climbs are an attractive option. Always check Shirkooh’s weather forecast before travelling.
Generally the name Shirkooh relates to the mountain’s wild nature and appearance. Several accounts explain the name:
One popular tradition says lions once lived on the mountain slopes long ago, hence the name “Shir” (lion).
Some believe the mountain’s shape from a distance resembles a sleeping lion.
Others say the mountain, as a major source of water for large parts of Yazd, is likened to a nursing mother (the Persian word "shir" can also mean "milk"), hence a maternal image.
Another tradition holds that Shirkooh symbolizes power and grandeur, which explains the name.
Because of Shirkooh’s varied climate zones, it supports a wide range of plant and animal life. At lower elevations the vegetation includes trees such as wild pistachio (bene), wild almond and barberry.
At higher elevations medicinal plants appear: sainfoin, dermané, artichoke, licorice, thyme, hibiscus, kudomé, black cumin, chicory, watermelon-like gourds, hasrat flower, green cumin, khakshir, sugar-type local plants, asafoetida, balangoo, breadmaker’s mallow, myrtle, marjoram, borage, rhubarb, sage, and many others.
Many animal species also inhabit the area: wild bezoar goats and ibex, rams and ewes, foxes, wolves and jackals can be sighted in Shirkooh’s ranges. Bird species include partridge, pheasant, golden eagle and falcon. Among reptiles are vipers, Jafari snakes and monitor lizards.
This biodiversity makes Shirkooh an important natural habitat in central Iran.
Compared with other high peaks, Shirkooh may seem easier because overnight stays on the route are possible.
However, difficulty depends on chosen route, weather and climber fitness — it ranges from moderate to relatively hard. Shirkooh has three main ascent routes.
To climb Shirkooh, head to Deh-Bala village near Taft; the route begins there. The distance from the trailhead to the summit is 16.99 kilometres. The ascent from this route is estimated to take 6–8 hours.
This village, with pleasant mountain climate, is a good starting point. The main route — called Najib Valley — starts with mild, green slopes, then steepens and presents the main challenges of the climb.
Along the route you’ll pass striking mountain views, four seasonal springs and green areas that contrast beautifully with the surrounding desert. Notable points include the under-bridge spring, massive rock slabs in Najib Valley and Shirkooh shelter — a convenient rest point before the final summit push.
But the route is not without challenge. Final sections are steep and energy-consuming, especially in winter when the path can be icy and slippery. Limited water sources are another concern — carry adequate drinking water.
Sudden weather changes can also surprise you, so warm clothing, a windbreaker, proper mountaineering boots and, in winter, crampons and trekking poles are essential.
The second route, Tezrajan, is rockier and requires more technical climbing skills and professional equipment — ascent time for skilled climbers is about 8–10 hours.
The third and longest route from Bidkuiyeh demands high endurance; ascent time for experienced climbers exceeds 10 hours.
Other routes include Sefilabad, rock wall routes, Sosen Valley, Shams Valley, Barda-stan Sanych, Labidshir, Bidkabkan, Labid-Sorkh, Laikhchal, Lagardo and Ab-Riz.
Deh-Bala is one of the scenic summer pastures near Shirkooh and a beautiful pastoral area in Yazd Province. The village, with its clean air and clear skies, is ideal for overnight stays, stargazing and nature photography. Rose gardens (damask roses) and old sun-dried mud-brick houses are local highlights.
Local specialties include dairy products, traditional bread and rosewater.
Distance Deh-Bala → Shirkooh: 3.7 kilometres (about 10 minutes by car).
Sekhuid ski slope in Taft County, Sokhuid rural district, sits on Shirkooh’s slopes and is a popular winter destination. To reach Sekhuid you must go to Sanij village then Sekhuid.
This village is about 1,500 years old and originally inhabited by Zoroastrians. In addition to skiing, you can see historical features like fire temples and burial towers (dakhma).
Distance Sekhuid → Shirkooh: ~1 hour 20 minutes (about 74 km).
Shirkooh offers diverse recreational opportunities and adventure. Mountaineering is a main activity, with routes suitable for beginners and experienced climbers. Nature lovers can visit nearby summer villages and enjoy springs and green vistas.
Camping on the slopes is a great overnight option for stargazing. The diverse flora and fauna give excellent chances for wildlife and nature photography.
Shirkooh lies in a natural, pristine area without built tourist infrastructure. Bring everything you need from Deh-Bala, the nearest village, and carry required equipment. For overnight stays en route you can use the mountain shelter after Najib Valley (3,522 m). There is also a summit shelter for overnight stays at the peak (4,075 m).
Mobile signal is available early on the trail, at shelters and some sections near the summit, but much of the route has no coverage.
In Deh-Bala you’ll find eco-lodges, traditional restaurants, local shops and parking. During high season locals sometimes set up temporary teahouses and stalls selling regional products like dairy and honey.
If you plan to stay near Shirkooh overnight, Deh-Bala is the closest area. Accommodation options include hotels, eco-lodges, suites, village houses and camping.
We recommend camping and overnighting only with good weather and proper gear. The best flat camping spot is near the spring called “Pool of Shir and Sun” at the trailhead. This place has flat ground and nearby parking. Another overnight option is the shelter after Najib Valley.
Bring a sturdy tent, sleeping bag, layered warm clothes and a camping stove. Also pack drinking water, high-energy food, headlamp, first-aid kit and GPS.
The “Mountaineer’s House” is a village stay about 800 metres from the trail start. It offers simple facilities and is a convenient overnight option for climbers. This homestay is near the Zeynabiyeh mosque in Sheikh Ali Shah neighborhood and caters to climbers and nature lovers.
Some nearby accommodation examples:
Shirkooh Nature & Recreation Complex
Amarat Saati Taft eco-lodge
Nartiti Taft eco-lodge
Do Saro Taft eco-lodge
Salar Deh-Bala eco-lodge
Shiriszdani Hotel, Deh-Bala
Shirkooh Hotel, Taft, Yazd
Mahtab Hotel, Deh-Bala
Sadat Suites
Don’t forget essential gear: mountaineering boots, season-appropriate clothes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles, headlamp, route map or GPS to prevent getting lost, crampons and ice axe in winter.
Bring enough water and high-energy snacks.
For overnight stays the mountain shelter is the best option.
Start ascent early in the morning.
Climb in groups and observe safety measures.
Use standard, safe routes.
Do not litter; stay on marked trails and avoid harming wildlife and vegetation.
