SAEDNEWS: Soha Lake is one of the most beautiful natural lakes in northern Iran, located in a picturesque region that combines mountains and dense forests. The lake is renowned for its clear waters and stunning landscapes, attracting tourists and nature lovers throughout the year.
Soha Lake is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Ardabil Province, located approximately 35 kilometers east of Ardabil. The hiking trail from Soha Lake to Laton Waterfall is considered one of the most famous nature trekking routes in Iran.
Soha Lake is among the rare and lesser-known attractions in Ardabil Province, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and lush greenery. This stunning lake is a favorite spot for nature lovers in Ardabil, and thanks to its cool and pleasant summer climate, it holds great potential for attracting tourists.
Recognized as one of Ardabil’s tourism highlights, Soha Lake is an ideal destination for wildlife photographers and enthusiasts of water sports and outdoor activities, offering them the chance to fully enjoy and benefit from the dreamy beauty of the region.
Where is Soha Lake located?
The city of Namine hosts one of Ardabil Province’s natural marvels. Soha Lake lies 35 kilometers east of Ardabil, gleaming like a jewel amid the province’s stunning mountainous landscapes.
Soha Lake, which is relatively small in size, serves as a water source for a nearby village of the same name, located just four kilometers away. This body of water was formed by the accumulation of water behind a small dam constructed to harness the region’s flowing waters. Locally known as "Sowa," the lake reaches depths of up to six meters in its central areas. It spans half a kilometer in width and 1.5 kilometers in length, surrounded by wild chamomile flowers.
The village of Soha lies in the Vilkij District and is home to 350 families. It boasts a temperate climate and is located adjacent to the forests of Bandeglu. The village’s name, meaning “waters,” is derived from the majestic lake and natural springs in the area. The soil in this region is so moist that stepping firmly on the ground can cause a spring of water to bubble up from your footprint.
Located around 625 kilometers from the capital, Soha marks the beginning of Gilan’s mythical forests and appears to be the very gateway to paradise.
Soha Lake can be reached via the Ardabil to Bris road. After passing this route and arriving at Niarq, follow the signposts directing you towards Soha village in the Namine region. To visit Soha Lake, continue on a four-kilometer dirt road heading northeast from the village.
Soha Lake Address: Ardabil Province, 36 kilometers from Ardabil city, Namine region, 4 kilometers northeast of Soha village.
Nature lovers and those with sufficient physical fitness do not settle for visiting Soha Lake alone. Soha serves as the starting point for adventurers and nature enthusiasts embarking on a long and mysterious 16-kilometer trail leading to Laton Waterfall. This rugged, winding, and challenging path is difficult to traverse but offers indescribable beauty that captivates the hearts of travelers. Consequently, this route is considered one of the best nature trails in Iran.
There are two hiking trails from Soha to Laton that take between two to three days to complete, one of which starts from the village of “Kuteh Kuma.” The first part of this enchanting journey is an uphill route that begins after passing through misty forests and ends at the Espinas Highlands in the Talesh region, taking at least six hours. The second part of the trail descends from the Talesh Highlands, lasting more than ten hours and concluding at Laton Waterfall. This route stretches through pristine forests, green hills, flowing springs, and steep slopes.
Laton Waterfall, which stands at 100 meters tall, is considered one of the highest waterfalls in the country. It is located 15 kilometers south of the Astara region. Laton Waterfall originates from the Espinas Peak, and after descending, it flows into the Lundvil River before emptying into the Caspian Sea.
The pristine nature, wild fruit-bearing trees, and rich wildlife are among the most prominent features of the Laton Waterfall area. Forest fruits such as wild pears, walnuts, and hazelnuts are gifts from the ancient Hyrcanian forests for nature lovers.
When exploring these untouched areas, it is essential to hire tourist guides. It is necessary to carry a GPS device, a flashlight, a camping tent, drinking water, food supplies, and other essential equipment for nature tourism on this route. Visitors should avoid confronting or disturbing wild animals and be cautious of animals such as wild boars, wolves, and bears.
Note that mobile phone coverage in the area is very weak, and there are no service or safety facilities along this route.
The climate of the Soha region is characterized by its coolness and mountainous nature, making it one of the preferred summer destinations. The fresh, non-humid air in this area, combined with pristine green nature, turns Soha Lake into an indescribable paradise and one of Ardabil’s most stunning destinations.
The cool mountain breeze, the shrubs of the Bandgolo forest, the Hyrcanian forests, the fresh springs, and the turquoise waters of Soha welcome visitors to a special day and an unforgettable memory. In July, a relatively thick fog covers the entire Soha area, and the cold breeze touches the visitors’ faces with drops of water.
The best time to visit Namin city and Soha Lake is during the first half of the year. The weather begins to cool down with the arrival of autumn, and in winter, Soha Lake becomes difficult to access. However, witnessing the snow-covered landscapes of Ardabil in winter offers its own unique charm.
The waters of Soha Lake are still and not suitable for swimming or bathing, but this stillness makes it ideal for activities such as fishing and boating. However, it should be noted that fishing in Soha Lake is not easy at all. The lake is home to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The Environmental Protection Department of Ardabil Province oversees the area and prohibits fishing during the spawning season.
Soha Lake is also surrounded by habitats of beautiful wild horses that play in the spring season, attracting visitors and capturing their hearts.
In recent years, some basic services such as drinking water and restrooms have been provided around Soha Lake; however, it should be noted that mobile network coverage in this area remains as weak as before.
Occasionally, local vendors and mobile food sellers can be found in the area. Visitors can purchase their supplies and food from Soha village, or enjoy a local dish such as delicious soup, scrambled eggs, or a bean meal. Supporting the local small economies by buying products from Soha village shops is encouraged.
The village and Soha Lake suffer from a lack of hotel and accommodation services. The nearest eco-friendly lodging is located in the Namin area; however, nature lovers often prefer camping near the lake, enjoying spending the night in tents amid the pristine and legendary nature of Soha.
