Saed News: If your choice for Nowruz holidays is to explore lesser-known places with pristine nature, what could be better than village tourism? Especially when the village is known as the most European-like village in Iran or the "Hogwarts of Iran." Aghasht Village, located in Alborz Province, is about 76 kilometers from Tehran.
According to the tourism service of Saed News, it doesn’t matter whether you’ve traveled to the northern strip of the country this Nowruz or are already a resident of one of its cities—Aghasht Village in Alborz Province is one of the best choices. Escaping the city’s hustle and bustle, taking a short and budget-friendly trip, and getting to know the local culture are some of the reasons tourists choose Aghasht Village.
Aghasht Village is located in Savojbolagh County, Alborz Province, near Kordan and Koohsar. It is considered one of the most scenic villages in the region. With its lush nature and cool climate, Aghasht is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The mountainous environment and stunning valleys create breathtaking views for visitors.
One of the village’s main tourist attractions is Aghasht Castle, known as the “Hogwarts of Iran” due to its unique architecture. If you’re unfamiliar with Hogwarts, it is the fictional magical school from the Harry Potter series by British author J.K. Rowling, officially named the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The castle’s fantasy-like design, featuring conical towers, a stone façade, and a mysterious ambiance, has led many tourists to compare it to the famous Hogwarts castle. The village’s climate also contributes to its magical atmosphere, as mist often envelops the castle during certain seasons, enhancing its mysterious charm.
A look into the history of the castle reveals that it is privately owned and only about 10 years old, having no connection to the European Renaissance era. Its mysterious exterior, however, closely resembles ancient Roman fortresses, which is why many visitors assume Aghasht Castle has a long and historical background.
According to the 2016 census, Aghasht Village has a population of about 770 people across 275 households. Given that the northern parts of Semnan, Tehran, Alborz, and Qazvin provinces were historically part of the northern ruling territories, the locals speak a fascinating dialect of northern Iranian languages, such as Gilaki or Mazandarani, while some also speak in the Taleghani dialect.
The name “Aghasht” is derived from two parts: Av (meaning water) and Ghasht (meaning accumulated), signifying a land rich in water resources. The village experiences high rainfall and abundant precipitation, making water readily available throughout the area. This naming reflects the region’s abundant water supply, influenced by its geographical location. A river and a waterfall further enhance the village’s charm, while lush greenery and towering trees add to its beauty. Among the notable plants that thrive in Aghasht are chamomile and astragalus.
To reach the picturesque Aghasht Village, take the Karaj-Qazvin highway and exit toward Kordan. Before reaching the village of Chelangdar, take the road leading to Aghasht Village. Aghasht Castle is located on the western side of the village.
