Saed News: Lake Elendan is the most unique lake in Mazandaran, offering breathtaking scenery. No matter which season you visit, you'll be met with the lake’s distinctive seasonal beauty.
Saed News: Elendan Lake, the amazing lake near Azni, located in the Chelardangeh district of Sari, lies in the forested area of Pella Elendan. One interesting feature of Elendan Lake is that, unlike most lakes in northern Iran, the water of this lake is only replenished by seasonal rainfall, with no rivers flowing into it.
Geologists say that Elendan Lake dates back to the Quaternary period, around 2.5 million years ago! The biggest event of this period was the dispersion of humans. Given the significant climatic changes, it is not unlikely that humans had a small role in the formation of Elendan Lake.
Elendan Lake was registered in Iran’s National Heritage List on November 14, 2015 (23rd of Aban, 1394 in the Solar Hijri calendar).
Naturally, it’s important to know the weather conditions before traveling anywhere. Here’s what you can expect from Elendan Lake’s weather across the seasons, so you can plan accordingly:
Spring: Spring is one of the best times to visit Elendan Lake, with mild temperatures and vibrant nature. Plants awaken from their winter sleep, offering both beauty and a pleasant atmosphere.
Summer: While beautiful, the summer season can be quite hot and humid, which might wear you out despite the scenic views.
Autumn: Much like spring, autumn is filled with cool weather and beautiful foliage. The forest is adorned with yellow and orange leaves, creating a colorful landscape.
Winter: Winters at Elendan Lake are harshly cold, often snowy or rainy, with the possibility of the lake freezing. The frozen surface and migrating wild ducks make winter particularly beautiful.
The flora in the region is quite diverse, with plants like wild pear, hawthorn, and various medicinal herbs such as violet and wild leek. These plants are more visible in spring but can be found to some extent throughout the year.
An interesting fact is that the soil in this area is impermeable to water, which helps maintain the lake’s condition. The fauna is also diverse, with migratory wild ducks visiting in winter. Most of the region’s wildlife can be seen in spring.
Whatever season you choose to visit, Elendan Lake will provide an amazing experience. The fresh air, the scent of wet earth, and the sound of the wind among the trees will immerse you in a tranquility that’s hard to find in city parks.
Every trip is made more memorable with fun activities. Here’s what you can enjoy during your visit to Elendan Lake:
Mountain Climbing Around Elendan Lake: The area is naturally mountainous, with many trails leading to nearby attractions. If you’re an athlete and love climbing, this is the perfect place for you.
Hiking and Exploring: Walking along the lake and the surrounding forest offers a unique experience you can’t have in urban parks. However, be careful not to lose your way in the green heart of the forest.
Boating on Elendan Lake: There are motorized and pedal boats available, but they’re primarily for locals, so remember to rent them before you embark on a boat ride.
Photography of the Surrounding Greenery: If you love photography, the views at Elendan Lake are perfect. The morning light provides the best conditions for capturing the scenery.
There are no lifeguards at the lake, so if you swim and get hurt, no one will be there to help you. Also, there are various aquatic plants and fish in the lake, and swimming could harm their ecosystem.
It’s better to enjoy the beauty of the lake without swimming, respecting the delicate balance of life around it.
Restrooms: There are public restrooms available for visitors.
Supermarkets and Stalls: Small stores in nearby villages offer local food and handicrafts, contributing to the region’s economy.
Photography Studios: There are also nearby photography studios where you can capture memories of your visit, especially if you’re dressed in traditional local attire.
While there aren’t major dangers in the area, be cautious. If you camp, there’s a slight risk from wildlife, so make sure to store your food in your vehicle to avoid attracting animals.
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry a first aid kit in case of emergencies.
You have multiple options for staying near Elendan Lake:
Camping: Camping beside the lake offers a unique experience, waking up to the sounds of the water and birds.
Eco-lodges: If you prefer not to camp, many eco-lodges in nearby villages provide a peaceful environment for rest.
The best times to visit Elendan Lake are during spring and autumn. Summer can be too hot, and winter cold, with frequent snow and rain, limiting your enjoyment of the surroundings.
Spring: Experience the refreshing scents and sights of new growth, with gentle rain adding to the calm atmosphere.
Autumn: The colorful forest, especially in autumn, offers a scenic and peaceful experience.
Elendan Lake is located in Mazandaran, Sari, 65 kilometers south of Sari city. After driving about 60 kilometers toward the Kiasar road, you will see a sign for Elendan. Drive for another 7 kilometers to reach the village of Azni, and then follow the dirt path to reach the lake.
Be sure to bring essential items like spare tires, warm clothes (especially in cold or rainy seasons), and food and water supplies. Don’t forget your camera for capturing the stunning landscapes!