SAEDNEWS: Chal Mahi — a cool, verdant day-trip less than an hour from Tehran, where clear streams, scenic waterfalls and natural pools offer a refreshing retreat for families and small groups looking to picnic, swim and walk beside mountain rivers.
Chal Mahi, located less than an hour from Tehran and easily accessible, is a popular day-trip destination in the area. Its cool, green setting by the river offers a peaceful spot for picnics and a chance to enjoy mountain air without needing an overnight stay. Visitors can swim in natural pools, walk along shady river trails, and spend a relaxing day with family or friends.
Because of the site’s mountain setting by a river, the best times to visit are late spring to early summer (late Ordibehesht to mid-Tir) and late summer to early autumn (late Shahrivar to mid-Mehr). During these times, the area stays cooler than Tehran, the pools are pleasant for swimming, and the scenery is most inviting.
Other parts of spring and autumn can also be enjoyable — especially if you prefer quieter, more colorful landscapes — but temperatures may be colder during those times.
Start early so you have a full day to enjoy the scenery. After parking, a short uphill paved walk followed by a riverside trail leads to the first pool in about half an hour — a perfect spot for a riverside breakfast. After a quick rest, keep going along the trail.
Starting from the first pool, a 20–30 minute walk leads to a fork: taking the left path takes you to the main, scenic Chal Mahi waterfall after about 300 meters. The sound of falling water and the mountain scenery make this an ideal spot for photos. As you go downstream, the river gets deeper, and you might see small fish and freshwater crabs. For lunch, find a flat spot by the river and enjoy a relaxed meal in nature.
Natural pools of different depths appear along the route and are usually safe for swimming. If you have more time, follow the right fork of the valley for about 600 meters to a second waterfall. Keep in mind you will return the same way on foot, so make sure to leave enough time to reach your parked car before darkness falls.
Address: Tehran Province, Tehran County, Kan District, Solqan Rural District, near Doab Village (check local map)
Chal Mahi is a popular attraction in Tehran Province, located about 30 kilometers from the city center and roughly an hour’s drive away. It is also around 60 kilometers from Karaj and Lavasan.
Route from Tehran: To reach Chal Mahi, head west on Shahid Hemmat Highway and take the Solqan–Imamzadeh Davood exit. Follow the road toward Imamzadeh Davood, and you'll see the sign for Doab Village. About ten minutes later, you'll arrive at the Doab turnoff. Park outside the village — vehicle access inside is restricted — and walk to the trailhead.
Location: Solqan Rural District, Kan District, Tehran County, Tehran Province
Distance to Chal Mahi: about 15 km (approx. 25 minutes by car)
Sangan is a historic, charming mountain village more than 500 years old, located on the slopes of the Pehneh-Hesar range. Its age is evident in the tombstones and shrines. The seasonal Sangan stream starts on the slopes of Kuh Karko and runs through the village. Keep in mind that a small entrance fee may be required to access the village area.
The village’s main attraction is the Sangan Waterfall, a 30-meter slide situated about 2,575 meters above sea level in a pristine valley. The area is lush and cool in spring and summer and becomes dramatically decorated with icicles in winter. Facilities near the waterfall are limited; bring essential supplies from the village.
Location: Solqan Road, Kan District, Tehran County, Tehran Province
Distance to Chal Mahi: about 15 km (approx. 20 minutes by car)
Imamzadeh Davood is a well-known mountain shrine near Tehran. The original structure — octagonal with an underground chamber — dates back to the Safavid era and was expanded during the Qajar period. Its traditional architecture, historic inscriptions, and the modest Jafari-style zarih give the site its character; the saint’s tomb is located within the crypt.
What makes Imamzadeh Davood historically notable is its once-challenging mountain approach; before the access road was built, the shrine was only reachable by mules. Today, an asphalt road extends most of the way, but visitors should still expect some walking.
Location: Abshenasan Highway, Shahran North Boulevard, Tehran Province
Distance to Chal Mahi: about 25 km (approx. 40 minutes by car)
Kouhsar Forest Park is one of Tehran’s best forest parks, situated north of the Kan district on the southern slopes of the Alborz range. Around 5,700 hectares have been afforested in part, creating attractive mountain scenery and a cool climate. Facilities include walking paths, picnic gazebos, barbecue areas, children’s play spaces, cafés and limited seating for larger family groups.
There are no restaurants or cafés along the immediate Chal Mahi trail or near the waterfalls; plan accordingly. Prepare food before you reach the trailhead — homemade, canned or lightweight packed meals work best for river walking so that food is not ruined by splashes. If you prefer cooked meals, several traditional cafés and restaurants on the Chalus road or in Nowshahr offer a scenic, comfortable place to eat after your hike.
Wear suitable hiking footwear — trails are wet, rocky and can be slippery.
Bring spare clothes, a walking pole, suitable sandals or water shoes for river passages; plastic flip-flops are unsuitable.
The route involves a fair amount of walking and is not recommended for young children, elderly people or those with mobility limitations.
Pack essentials: light snacks, drinking water, a mat, a thermos, a cup, a towel, dry clothes, a rubbish bag and a waterproof cover.
Vehicles must be parked outside the village; entry with cars into the village area is prohibited.
In warm seasons carry sun protection: sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
If you plan to light a fire, clean the area thoroughly afterwards and take all rubbish with you.
If you are unfamiliar with the route and do not have a guide, consider having an early riverside picnic and avoiding longer, unfamiliar stretches of the trail.
Respect the environment — do not leave litter, do not break branches or damage plants.
If you have taken a one-day trip to Chal Mahi or know other attractions in the area, we would be glad if you shared your experiences and tips with Kijaro’s readers.
