Take the winding road to Shurmast and you’ll understand why visitors say — “it was worth every bend.”
The route to Shurmast Lake is full of turns and ups and downs — but the moment the lake appears you’ll say, “It was worth it!” We know this because hundreds of visitor comments say the same. Today, let’s explore what makes Shurmast Lake so attractive in this Ali Baba travel feature.
Shurmast Lake is one of Mazandaran’s noted attractions. If you are driving by private car, head toward Savadkuh. For ease of navigation, many visitors use Google Maps for the Tehran–Savadkuh route.
Before we ask “Where is Shurmast Lake?”, know that the distance from Tehran to Shurmast Lake is approximately 200 kilometres, which normally takes about three hours depending on road conditions. The lake lies in the Savadkuh highlands beside the village of the same name.
The distance from Firuzkuh to Shurmast Lake is about 75 kilometres, and driving from Firuzkuh takes roughly one hour.
If you set out from Tehran, take the Firuzkuh road toward Qaemshahr. After about 65 kilometres from Firuzkuh (and after passing Veresk Bridge), you will reach Pol-e Sefid. In the centre of Pol-e Sefid an asphalt road leads toward Shurmast. Follow it to a small bridge; roughly 5 kilometres after that bridge you’ll find a fork — right to Shurmast village, left to the lake. The left route takes you directly to the waterside.
As mentioned above, the lake is ringed by mountains. Winters are cold and, if you lack appropriate gear, your experience may suffer.
Because of mountain terrain and Mazandaran’s climate, winters at Shurmast Lake are cold. If you visit in winter, bring warm clothing and proper equipment. Also, check your vehicle: carry snow chains and make sure your tires are roadworthy — the route is winding.
Bring whatever you need for the trip, but the lake area also offers basic services if you forget something. Facilities include:
Restaurant
Convenience store / mini-market
Public toilets
Paid parking (entry fee applies per car)
If you want to stay overnight, you have two main choices:
Camping: Plates and platforms are available around the lake for pitching tents; a fee may apply for using prepared platforms.
Renting a villa: If you prefer more comfort, several villas around the lake are available for rent.
The lake and its surroundings are naturally entertaining, but you can also choose from several organised activities:
Boating
Water skiing
Playground (swings)
Horseback riding
Cycling
Fishing is a popular recreational activity for locals and visitors. If you bring a rod, you may try your luck — but remember swimming in the lake is prohibited.
Visiting Shurmast doesn’t have to end with the lake. Several notable sights are nearby:
Veresk Bridge: An engineering icon perched above a green valley — perfect for photography.
Kanglou Castle: Also known as “the Eagle of Mazandaran,” a Sassanid-era fortress on a high ridge. Climbing to the castle is itself an enjoyable nature outing.
Arfa‘deh Forest: A tranquil beech woodland for refreshing walks.
Espahbod Khorshid Cave: One of Iran’s largest and oldest caves, full of historic lore and intriguing passages.
Sangdeh village: A peaceful village with orchards and rural charm.
Gerdkuh archaeological mound: A 2,500-year-old site with pottery and graves from Parthian and Arsacid eras.
Alasht village: A highland village at about 1,900 metres with fruit trees, stone streets and an ethnography museum.
Berenjestanak dam/reservoir: About an hour’s drive from Shurmast, offering camping and recreational facilities.
Shurmast is not a secluded wilderness; during busy seasons — especially spring and summer holidays — it attracts many families who come to picnic. Expect crowds on holiday weekends, though the broad lakeside and woods usually still offer pockets of calm.
Shurmast Lake is roughly 200 km from Tehran, so it’s a short, attractive escape from the capital. Whether you’re coming from other cities or planning a Tehran weekend, the area and its surroundings hold many photo opportunities year-round — Shurmast is, as many visitors say, truly beautiful.
Tip | |
|---|---|
Best travel seasons are spring and summer for pleasant weather; bring warm layers for autumn and winter. | “Best time is spring and summer… bring warm clothing for autumn.” |
If visiting in winter, equip your car with snow chains and check tires before departure. | “In winter check your car and take snow chains; replace worn tires.” |
Swimming is forbidden; enjoy boating or fishing instead (fishing is common). | “Swimming is prohibited… fishing is a popular pastime.” |
Use prepared camping platforms (paid) or rent a nearby villa if you prefer comfort. | “You can camp on prepared platforms (fee) or rent a villa.” |
Carry suitable hiking shoes and clothing for muddy or rocky shorelines and mountain walks. | “Wear suitable shoes — shores can be muddy and slopes stony.” |
