Saed News: The Black Cheshman Waterfall is a natural and astonishing phenomenon in Mazandaran province, where the dark stones surrounding it beautifully form the image of black eyes, sealing a beloved picture in the heart of its admirer.
According to the Family Magazine service of Saed News, the Black Cheshman Waterfall on the Chalus Road is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in a village near this road. Many people who want to travel to Mazandaran or those living in the capital who are looking for a suitable place for a one-day trip near Tehran visit the village of Alit on the Chalus Road and enjoy the Black Cheshman Waterfall. This enchanting natural attraction is like a hidden paradise for travel enthusiasts and especially nature tourists, who have kept it hidden from the eyes of many.
Introduction to Black Cheshman Waterfall
The Black Cheshman Waterfall in the village of Alit, Mazandaran, is considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Iran. The village of Alit is located near the Marzanabad area on the Chalus Road, and this waterfall, with a height of 30 meters and a width of 15 meters, is located there. The formation of the Black Cheshman Waterfall dates back thousands of years, and like many other natural waterfalls, it was created due to the erosion of the surrounding rocks caused by the flowing water. The waterfall is situated in a historical area, and around it, you can find numerous ancient ruins and historical buildings, all of which date back to the pre-Islamic era. The path leading to the Black Cheshman Waterfall is somewhat challenging, but despite this, many people, especially the youth, are willing to endure the difficult journey in order to enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the waterfall.
Reason for Naming the Black Cheshman Waterfall
There are several theories about the naming of the Black Cheshman Waterfall on the Chalus Road. The first theory is that the water of this waterfall appears somewhat dark due to the surrounding rocks, which is why it is called "Black Cheshman" (Black Eyes). Another version, according to local legends, tells the story of a beautiful girl who, to escape from a cruel person, throws herself off this waterfall. The girl had black eyes, and hence the waterfall was named Black Cheshman. However, some people believe that "Cheshman" actually refers to "springs" and that the name comes from the collection of dark-colored springs around the waterfall.
Where is the Black Cheshman Waterfall?
To reach the Black Cheshman Waterfall, you need to first drive on the Chalus Road toward Marzanabad in Mazandaran. After driving about 20 kilometers on the Chalus Road, you will reach a junction at Marzanabad, where you need to follow the signs directing you toward Kelardasht. After passing Marzanabad and before reaching Kelardasht, you will arrive at the village of Alit. In the village, you should park your car in a safe area and then walk toward the Black Cheshman Waterfall.
The path is mountainous and cannot be traversed by car or other vehicles. The estimated time to reach the village of Alit from Tehran is about 2 to 3 hours, and the time to reach the waterfall from the village depends on your walking speed. There is a dirt road leading to the waterfall, but keep in mind that you will need off-road vehicles to travel on this path, and weaker vehicles may not be able to pass. Additionally, the driver navigating this route should be experienced.
Best Time to Visit the Black Cheshman Waterfall
Mazandaran has a four-season climate, so you can visit different regions throughout the year. However, the Black Cheshman Waterfall is located in a cool mountainous area of Mazandaran, so it is generally recommended to visit during the spring and summer. During these seasons, the weather is not unbearably hot, and you can enjoy your trip. If you'd like to dip in the cool waters of the waterfall during your visit, summer would be an ideal time. However, keep in mind that summer is the peak tourist season in this area, and many people come to visit the waterfall. Spring is less crowded, but you should check the weather forecast in advance to ensure that rain doesn't ruin your trip and block the path to the Black Cheshman Waterfall.
Flora and Fauna of the Black Cheshman Waterfall
The flora and fauna around the Black Cheshman Waterfall are quite diverse, with a wide range of plants and animals living in the area. Some of the most common plants you can observe near the waterfall and in the surrounding nature include oak, beech, alder, walnut, hazelnut, raspberry bushes, sour cherries, blackberries, gorse, and a variety of colorful and beautiful flowers such as violets, hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips. The area also has numerous medicinal and wild plants like motherwort, thyme, and mint, which you can pick and use if you're familiar with them. The animal life in the area is just as varied as the plant life, and you can encounter animals such as foxes, bears, wild boars, deer, eagles, falcons, nightingales, snakes, turtles, and many other harmless wild creatures.
Accommodation Around the Black Cheshman Waterfall
Within a distance of about 20 to 30 kilometers from the Black Cheshman Waterfall, you can find well-equipped hotels with good facilities, such as Negin Hotel Apartments, Alborz Hotel, and Darya Hotel, among many others. Additionally, there are options for staying in eco-lodges and rental houses in Kelardasht and Marzanabad. In general, other cities in Mazandaran are located close to this pristine tourist attraction, so travelers will have no trouble finding suitable accommodation. Visitors who wish to stay near the waterfall can also bring camping equipment and tents and spend the night in a safe area near the waterfall.
Facilities and Tourist Activities Near the Black Cheshman Waterfall
The Black Cheshman Waterfall is located in one of Mazandaran's pristine areas, known for its untouched nature. As a result, it is not surprising that there are no significant facilities or recreational amenities around the waterfall. If you plan to visit this waterfall, it is recommended to either dine at restaurants in Marzanabad beforehand or bring sufficient food and supplies with you. Additionally, do not forget to bring enough drinking water for those who will be visiting the waterfall. During your visit, you can enjoy activities such as walking, nature photography, collecting medicinal plants, swimming in the springs around the waterfall, and having a picnic in the unspoiled nature of Mazandaran.
Important Tips for Visiting the Black Cheshman Waterfall
The access route to the Black Cheshman Waterfall is quite difficult, and it may take several hours to complete the mountain trail. Therefore, it is advised not to travel to the area with elderly individuals or small children. It is also best to bring appropriate clothing and comfortable hiking shoes for the trek. Although camping and setting up tents are possible in the area, many wild animals live nearby, so caution is necessary. Be sure to bring enough water and food for your visit. However, remember that enjoying the beautiful and pristine nature is everyone's right, and we should not take that away from others by littering or damaging the environment.
