Saednews: Fandoghlou Forest in Namin, with its pristine and unique nature, is considered one of the tourist attractions of Ardabil Province.
Located just 10 kilometers from the city of Namin in Ardabil Province, Fandoghlou Forest is one of the most pristine and unique forests in Iran. Locally known as "Mashe," this forest lies along one of the most scenic and dreamlike roads in the north of the country — the Heyran Pass.
Many travelers who journey through this road connecting the provinces of Gilan and Ardabil may be captivated by the road’s beauty, unaware of the hidden paradise nestled nearby. However, if they knew that within this forest they could not only see rare tree species but also spot the Persian red deer up close, they certainly wouldn’t pass by indifferently.
One of the most interesting features of Fandoghlou Forest is that, unlike most forests, it is not entirely covered in trees. Instead, it boasts vast meadows filled with annual chamomile flowers reaching heights of 20 to 40 centimeters. Additionally, the forest is home to a field of Lilium ledebourii (Chalchelagh lily), one of the rarest flowers in the world.
So, if you're eager to learn more about this captivating and scenic region, keep reading.
Presence of rare tree species
Habitat for a variety of animal species
Abundance of walnut trees
Pleasant and refreshing climate
Located in the Heyran Pass
Natural habitat for the Persian red deer
Ideal for camping
Beautiful in all seasons
Proximity to other tourist attractions in Namin
This forest is located in the southern part of Namin County in Ardabil Province, where the humid and rainy climate of Gilan meets the cold and dry climate of Ardabil. This intersection creates a misty atmosphere and unique vegetation in the region.
Fandoghlou Forest stretches along the road from Namin to Astara and is bordered by the areas of Khaneqah Olya, Aryatepeh, Naneh Karan, Abi Biglu, Karim Kandi, Niaragh, and the village of Hoor. It is 626 kilometers from Tehran, 67 kilometers from Astara, and 39 kilometers from Ardabil.
The forest itself is divided into two sections: the larger area known locally as Boyuk Mashe and the smaller one referred to as Asi Giran or Kazem Mashe-si. The two parts are about 700 meters apart.
Despite being called a forest, only one-quarter of its 16,000 hectares is covered with trees — the rest consists of plains and meadows. However, even this limited forested area is home to rare tree species.
As the name suggests, hazelnut trees dominate the forest, but you can also find rare varieties such as oak, gall oak, beech, pussy willow, and hornbeam. Additionally, fruit trees like plum, green gage, blackberry, wild apple, strawberry, and medlar are found here.
Fandoghlou Forest is home to numerous animals, including martens, wolves, foxes, and brown bears. It also hosts birds such as the golden eagle, pheasant, hooded crow, partridge, and lark.
The tall chamomile flowers of Fandoghlou Forest are rare and beautiful. Every year, on June 13 and 14 (coinciding with World Flower and Plant Day), a national chamomile flower festival is held here.
The region's herbal flora isn’t limited to chamomile. Thanks to its ideal climate, plants such as yarrow, primrose, holly, wild rose, borage, violet, and elderberry also thrive in this forest.
Note: Chamomile blooms only during spring and early summer. So to witness the flower fields, plan your visit in May, June, or July.
Fandoghlou Forest is considered an extension of the semi-tropical forests of Gilan that flow into the plains of Ardabil. This natural bridge draws numerous visitors throughout the year, making the area a key site for Ardabil's ecotourism industry.
Its proximity to the Heyran Pass and the Heyran Cable Car, just 5 kilometers from Namin, increases its popularity among travelers.
There are several ways to reach this forest:
By Air: The simplest way is to fly to Ardabil and then drive a short distance to the forest from the city.
By Hiking: Popular hiking trails from Soha Lake and Latun Waterfall lead to Mashah Soo thermal spring and then to Fandoghlou.
By Car:
From Astara to Ardabil: Just before the Heyran Tunnel, take the side road on the right. After about 1 kilometer, turn left at the fork. This road leads to the upper cable car station, Heyran Restaurant, and finally to Fandoghlou Forest.
From Ardabil to Astara: Drive to Namin, turn at the CNG station toward Dodran village. Pass Khanqah Sofla and reach Aryatepeh village. At the four-way intersection, turn left and continue 4 kilometers to the forest’s parking area.
Mashah Soo Hot Spring
Mashe Forest
Shoreshorneh Waterfall
Soha Lake
Heyran Pass
Heyran Cable Car
Zipline, alpine coaster, and kart racing at the Heyran recreational complex
Fandoghlou Ski Resort
Sabalan (Savalan) Hotel, Ardabil – 35 km from Fandoghlou Forest
Araman Eco-lodge – 4 km (8 minutes) from the forest
San Son Eco-lodge – 29.3 km (45 minutes) from the forest
Fandoghlou Forest of Namin is truly a natural treasure of Ardabil Province, offering a unique blend of forest, meadow, rare flora and fauna, and breathtaking vistas — making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists alike.
