SAEDNEWS: The lush forest trail to Laton Waterfall in Astara County is one of Gilan’s most scenic hiking routes. Starting from Kouteh-Komeh village, it features clear springs, river sounds, ancient trees, and pristine views.
According to Saed News Tourism Service, Gilan Province, with its abundant natural beauty and spectacular attractions, is one of the most popular destinations among travelers and tourists. One of Gilan’s most famous sights is a tall and breathtaking waterfall that, with a height of 105 meters, is recognized as one of the tallest waterfalls in Iran. This waterfall is known as Laton Waterfall, and in the local dialect it is called Barzav.
Adjacent to the majestic Espinas Mountain and nestled within a dense forest filled with lush vegetation—featuring trees such as plum, quince, pear, walnut, hazelnut, and wild apple—stands a striking and lofty waterfall known as Laton. Visible from a distance of up to 500 meters, this four-season waterfall is among the 30 tallest waterfalls in the world and is considered one of the highest in Iran.
The main and upper cascade of Laton Waterfall measures 105 meters in height and five meters in width, while its lower cascade is 65 meters high and 10 meters wide, bringing the total height to 107 meters.
Laton Waterfall originates from the eastern slopes of Espinas (Espineh) Mountain and flows into the Londvil River, which itself rises from the same mountain and stretches for 17 kilometers. The river descends steeply toward Kuteh Kumeh and Londvil, eventually emptying into the Caspian Sea.
The volume of water varies across seasons, but the waterfall flows year-round.
In 2019 (1398 SH), Laton Waterfall was officially registered as a valuable natural heritage site under National Registration No. 645, and added to Iran’s list of natural monuments.
The climate around Laton is similar to other northern regions of Iran and Gilan Province. Winters are cold, while the second half of spring and summer is humid. Therefore, if you plan to visit Laton Waterfall, it is best to avoid these periods and choose milder seasons for your trip.
Address: 15 kilometers south of Astara, Londvil City
Laton Waterfall is located in northern Iran, near the border between Gilan and Ardabil provinces. This stunning natural attraction is one of Astara’s highlights, situated in the mountainous areas of this port city, about 15 kilometers south of Astara, in Londvil, and 6 kilometers from the village of Kuteh Kumeh.
To reach Laton Waterfall, first travel to Londvil City along the Talesh–Astara road. Then take the southern side road and continue for a few kilometers until you reach Kuteh Kumeh Village. From there, you must hike along a roughly 6-kilometer mule track through the region’s beautiful forests.
Another access route is via Sooha Lake, which leads to Laton and is considered one of the finest nature-travel routes in Iran.
Important note: The access route to Laton is winding and passes through deep valleys, and it has posed serious risks to visitors unfamiliar with the area. Typically, only local off-road vehicles are used by villagers. Ordinary cars and motorcycles face the danger of falling into ravines, which can result in serious injuries or financial loss.
After visiting the magnificent Laton Waterfall and exploring the pristine and soothing nature of the area, if you do not plan to visit other destinations, you can return to Kuteh Kumeh Village and spend the night in this scenic forest village.
Along the route to Laton, you will encounter breathtaking landscapes, including smaller waterfalls, forested hills, and numerous springs with cool, refreshing water—making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Kuteh Kumeh Village:
At the beginning of your journey, do not miss exploring this village and its charm. As the closest village to Laton Waterfall, it features attractions such as a hot spring, an old mill known as Asiyeh Shavan, and an ancient cemetery.
Kuteh Muteh Hot Spring:
This hot spring is the only forest hot spring in Iran and is located at the start of the ascent to Laton. It includes three showers, a pool, parking, a buffet, restrooms, and rooms for accommodating visitors.
Waterfalls:
Near and upstream from Laton, there are three large natural pools accompanied by three 10-meter-high waterfalls. Be aware that the final section of the path—especially between the 105-meter and 65-meter waterfalls—features extremely dangerous and potentially deadly cliffs, so proceed with great caution.
Laton Castle:
Atop Espinas (Espineh) Mountain, near Laton Waterfall, stands a historic fortress attributed to Babak Khorramdin, known as Espineh or Espinas Castle. If you enjoy mountaineering, do not miss visiting this site at an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters, where history and nature converge dramatically.
