Haft Abshar Tirkon is a series of seven cascading waterfalls nestled in the heart of the Lafur forests in Mazandaran province, resembling a lost paradise in northern Iran.
Today, I want to talk about where Haft Abshar is and the best time to visit Haft Abshar Tirkon because the season for nature tourism and traveling to northern Iran has arrived. As the name suggests, the seven waterfalls of Savadkuh stand beside each other, with the tallest one reaching 9 meters. All these waterfalls eventually lead to a natural pool, making swimming there one of the best experiences in summer.
The seven-tiered waterfalls of Tirkon, or Haft Abshar Tirkon, are approximately 40 million years old. As the name implies, they consist of seven beautiful and scenic cascades surrounded by dense forests. As mentioned earlier, the tallest waterfall is 9 meters high; however, these waterfalls are not located right next to each other. To see all seven, you must be prepared for some hiking and even a bit of climbing.
The surrounding forests of Haft Abshar Tirkon are called Kalbekush, among the most beautiful and lush pastures in northern Iran. Every corner of northern Iran is filled with natural wonders worth exploring. However, in recent years, some trees in this area have been affected by pests, leading to the loss of certain plant species.
Haft Abshar Tirkon is one of the natural attractions of Babol, located in Mazandaran province. It is nestled in the pristine Lafur Forest, a part of Babol’s territory. Cities like Savadkuh, Qaemshahr, and Babol have good access to this area. The seven waterfalls of Savadkuh are situated 42 km south of Babol, 35 km west of Savadkuh, and 51 km southwest of Qaemshahr. The nearest inhabited area is Tirkon village, and to reach the waterfalls, you must walk approximately 3 km.
Your route depends on the city you're traveling from.
From Tehran or nearby cities: Start with the Firouzkuh Road to reach Savadkuh and Shirgah, then head toward Babol. Alternatively, you can take the Chalous Road or Haraz Road to reach Haft Abshar Tirkon, but Firouzkuh is the shortest route.
From the northeast (Mashhad, Sari, etc.): First, get to Sari, then follow the road to Qaemshahr and continue through Khatirkola Road to reach Tirkon village.
From the northwest (Rasht and beyond): Take the Mahmoudabad coastal road toward Babol. At Drazkola Junction, take the right turn toward Tirkon village.
From western or southern parts of Iran: The best route is via Tehran following the same Firouzkuh Road.
Once you reach Tirkon village, you will need to hike for about two hours to reach the waterfalls.
Northern Iran has a humid climate, and Haft Abshar Tirkon is no exception. If you struggle with humid weather, summer may not be the best time for you. On the other hand, winters in this area are cold and snowy, making the trails slippery and challenging.
During rainy seasons, the waterfalls have a higher water flow, but visiting in heavy rain can be dangerous. The best times to visit are early autumn and spring, when the weather is pleasant, and swimming in the natural pool is an unforgettable experience.
While this destination is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit is in early autumn when the red and orange leaves of maple and alder trees create a mesmerizing view, and the weather is mild. If you don’t have school or exam worries, May (Ordibehesht) is another great time to visit and enjoy the waterfalls.
If you’re excited to see the seven-tiered waterfalls, head to Mazandaran, Babol. From there, take the Padgan Road towards Tirkon village. Don’t forget comfortable hiking shoes because you’ll need to walk for about two hours to reach the waterfalls. A parking area is available near the starting point for visitors traveling by car.
The waterfalls are spread out along a 3 km trail, so prepare for a scenic hike through the forest. To avoid getting lost, do not cross the river after reaching the first waterfall—instead, keep left to continue the journey through all seven cascades.
The attractions of Haft Abshar Tirkon aren’t just about the scenic waterfalls. I'm sure after hearing about the exciting activities you can enjoy in these forests and near the waterfalls, you'll be even more eager to visit this beautiful destination.
If you're lucky enough to have camping gear with you, spending at least one night in the stunning nature of Haft Abshar under the starry sky is an experience you shouldn't miss. Be sure to follow safety guidelines and avoid lighting large fires or leaving trash behind. Keeping the environment clean ensures that future visitors can enjoy this breathtaking location just as much as you do.
In today’s digital age, it's impossible not to capture the beauty of this location through photography. However, you might find yourself so mesmerized by the landscape that you forget to take pictures!
The majestic trees of the forests and the cascading waterfalls of Haft Abshar provide the perfect backdrop for stunning photos that will have everyone asking, "Where is this amazing place?" Your Instagram feed will surely get a vibrant boost with these incredible shots.
Are you a hiking enthusiast? This region offers a perfect blend of hiking, nature trekking, and photography opportunities. The waterfalls are spread out over a significant distance, and the varying elevations make the journey a mix of forest trekking and mountain hiking. Just make sure to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes for a smooth adventure.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for visiting. If you plan to stay overnight, bring along friends or family for safety and company.
Lack of Facilities: There are no tourist amenities near Haft Abshar, so pack all necessary food, water, and essentials before starting your hike.
Swimming Essentials: The natural pool at the waterfalls is incredibly tempting, so don’t forget to bring an extra set of clothes and a towel in case you decide to take a dip.
Navigation: Cell phone signal may be weak in some areas. It’s a good idea to download offline maps or carry a printed map for navigation.
Environmental Responsibility: Preserve nature for future generations by avoiding campfires, littering, or damaging trees.
Check the Weather: Rainfall in this area can be unpredictable and sometimes dangerous. Always check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
Every corner of Iran has its own unique charm, and Haft Abshar Tirkon is undoubtedly one of its most stunning destinations. I highly recommend adding this spot to your travel bucket list to experience its beauty firsthand.
