Step into Shahroud’s Abr Forest, where clouds sit among the treetops and mornings feel like walking on an ocean
The variety of animal species in Abr is notable as well: horses, brown bears, wolves, leopards, wild boar, jackals, foxes, rabbits, roe deer (shoka) and mountain goats have all been seen here. Birdlife is equally diverse, with partridge, woodland doves, quail, forest eagles, vultures, falcons and pheasants among the species that call the forest home.
Abr Forest is ideal for recreation, hiking, mountain biking, camping and overnight stays. Whether you intend to spend a few hours or a night, the forest contains unexpected delights. It’s a perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers who want to frame a piece of this unique scenery.
This forest is suitable for trips with friends, family, or organized tours. Spending a night camping in Abr with friends or relatives can be one of your most memorable nighttime trips; depending on the season you may sleep under a starry sky, in clouds, or during rain.
The best period for exploring this forest is from late Farvardin to mid-Mehr (approximately mid-April to early October). The cloud phenomenon is visible in every season, but visiting in cold months requires full equipment and warm clothing. To see the ocean of clouds that surrounds the forest, choose a day when the higher area around Shirinabad is cloudy or rainy while Shahroud itself is sunny. Check the weather carefully — like Masal, Abr Forest has particular local conditions that affect your trip.
If you plan to visit on holidays, arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot for pitching a tent.
If you drive, head first to Shahroud from wherever you are. After passing Imam Reza Square, follow the Azadshahr road and, after the police checkpoint, take the side road on the right toward Abr village. From the village there are about eight kilometers to the forest.
If you prefer public transport, it’s straightforward: take a bus or train to Shahroud. The trip from Tehran to Shahroud by bus or train takes around six hours, and services on this route are comfortable — so don’t worry about the travel time. Once in Shahroud, take a taxi to Imam Square.
The Abr village taxi and bus station is on 17 Shahrivar Street (formerly Takht-e Jamshid). From there you can catch a taxi or bus to the village of Abr — services run from about 08:00 to 18:00. You can also hire a private car/agency for a direct trip.
Tours are available, too. If it’s your first time, a two- or three-day guided tour can be a good option.
The forest has a driveable path and you won’t need a guide for basic sightseeing. However, if your vehicle isn’t suitable, don’t go deep into the forest — you could have difficulty returning. A guide helps you find unspoiled areas, fresh springs, and good overnight camping spots.
Like Filband, Abr offers a few choices. Depending on your group, you can camp in the forest and sleep under the wild sky, or rent a house in Abr village and spend the night there. If you travel with family and children, a village house can be more comfortable; but if you’re with friends, don’t miss the pleasure of camping in this remarkable forest.
Staying in Abr is somewhat more demanding than a simple picnic and you’ll need extra equipment: sleeping bag, tent, groundsheet, hiking boots, a lightweight backpack, water bottle, warm clothing, personal toiletries, and first-aid supplies.
You can capture fantastic photos throughout the forest whenever there is enough light. If you’re an early riser, don’t miss dawn — sunrise delivers exceptional images. Sunset photography can also produce remarkable shots.
Clouds don’t give notice; if you want to be enveloped by an ocean of cloud, check the weather before you set out for Abr Forest. Plan to arrive and settle while there is daylight. This forest is one of Shahroud’s pristine sights and, as you know, wildlife is part of any wild area — so pitch camp where other people are nearby and where you can call for help if needed. Don’t forget to share your impressions and experiences from a visit to this beautiful forest.
Tip | |
|---|---|
Check the weather before you go — clouds form under specific local conditions. | “...check the weather… for a better view.” |
Arrive in daylight and, on holidays, get there early to find a good camping spot. | “If you want to visit on holidays, plan to arrive early.” |
Pack essential overnight gear: tent, sleeping bag, groundsheet, hiking boots, warm clothes, water and first aid. | “Equipment list… sleeping bag, tent, groundsheet, hiking boots… first aid.” |
If your vehicle isn’t suitable, avoid going deep into the forest; consider hiring a guide for hidden springs and spots. | “If you don’t have a suitable car, don’t go deep… a guide helps find springs and camp spots.” |
Camp near other visitors for safety due to presence of wild animals. | “…animals are part of wild areas — camp where people are nearby.” |
