SAEDNEWS: Darreh-ye Zaman, Polur Village, Bala Larijan Rural District, Larijan District, Amol County, Mazandaran Province, Islamic Republic of Iran — a close-to-Tehran river gorge of towering cliffs and cool, turquoise waters ideal for a one-day escape.
“Darreh-ye Zaman” or the Tangeh (gorge) of Zaman, because of its proximity to Tehran, easy access and distinctive natural features, is one of the best options for a one-day excursion. In fact, without spending a lot of time or money you can make a day trip to Darreh-ye Zaman and enjoy a rewarding and different kind of nature outing.
The best time to visit Darreh-ye Zaman is from spring through early autumn. During this period the weather is pleasantly cool and even at the height of summer the area is comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration.
Leave Tehran early in the morning and drive towards Darreh-ye Zaman in Polur. When you arrive, park near the old stone bridge of Polur (the stone bridge of Qalt Rineh, Amol) or by the roadside. Because the gorge runs between cliffs and a river, be prepared for river-walking; before you set off you can spread breakfast under the bridge beside the Lār River — this spot is one of the few places that offers enough room to sit and rest.
Walking parts of the gorge does not require advanced swimming skills, but much of the route involves wading and in some stretches the water can reach about 1.5 metres deep. Along the gorge there are many natural pools, large and small, that are lovely for swimming and bathing. If you are travelling in a group, you can use a rope for support and balance in deeper or more crowded sections. Between sections you can rest on the rocks beside the river.
At the end of the gorge there is a waterfall; however, access to the waterfall itself is blocked due to falling rocks, but a turquoise pool has formed there which makes a pleasant swimming spot. Adjacent to this area is a meadow where you can rest and enjoy a light snack. Retrace the same route to return to your parked car.
Address: Mazandaran Province, Amol County, Larijan District, Bala Larijan Rural District, Polur Village, Stone Bridge of Polur (see map)
Darreh-ye Zaman is located in Polur Village and is one of Mazandaran’s natural attractions. This beautiful gorge, in Amol county, is about 50 kilometres from Mount Damāvand and roughly 100 kilometres from the city of Amol.
Route from Tehran: First head east from Tehran onto the Shahid Zeyn al-Din Highway and continue to the Tehran–Pardis road. After passing Rudehen, join the Haraz Road (Jaddeh-ye Haraz). After passing the Imamzadeh Hashem pass, continue toward Polur village. Shortly after Polur, at the start of the Lār road, take the first turning and follow the route back toward Tehran briefly; a little further on you will see a fork on the right — the left track from that fork leads to Darreh-ye Zaman. You will finally reach the stone bridge over the Lār River. Driving from Tehran to Darreh-ye Zaman is approximately 100 kilometres and takes about one hour and 40 minutes under normal conditions.
Address: Mazandaran Province, Amol County, Larijan District, near Shahandasht VillageDistance from Darreh-ye Zaman: about 30 kilometres (roughly 40 minutes by car)
Shahandasht Waterfall is considered the largest waterfall in northern Iran and is picturesque even from a distance. The waterfall comprises a series of eight stepped falls and requires a roughly 20-minute walk from Shahandasht village to reach; the path passes through lovely orchards and modern villas.
Near the waterfall stands the historical fortress of Malek Bahman, one of the mountain citadels of the Alborz with pre-Islamic origins. Other natural and historical attractions in the area include Elyās Tangeh Cave, fresh springs and old village houses that attract visitors. The best time to visit these sites is between Ordibehesht and Mehr (roughly late April to late September), when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is at its greenest.
Address: Border of Tehran and Mazandaran ProvincesDistance from Darreh-ye Zaman: about 20 kilometres (approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car)
Dasht-e Lār, on the border of Tehran and Mazandaran at the foot of Mount Damāvand, is famed for its green meadows, red poppies, the Lār Dam and unrivalled views of Damāvand. In spring and early summer the plain is carpeted with colourful wildflowers such as wild iris, yellow blossoms and poppies.
Lār is one of Iran’s oldest summer resorts and a protected area. It hosts rich biodiversity and important plant and animal species including leopard, brown bear, wild goat and ibex, the Damāvand viper, eagles and red-spotted trout.
Address: Mazandaran Province, Amol County, Larijan District, Bala Larijan Rural District, Navo VillageDistance from Darreh-ye Zaman: about 30 kilometres (roughly 50 minutes by car)
Dasht-e Azo is a high plain set within the Alborz heights at around 2,600 metres above sea level. Access is via the Haraz Road and Navo village. From Navo there is about an hour’s walk along a clear, well-trodden path beside the river to reach the meadow. The trail is suitable for people of average fitness, including older travellers and children.
In spring and summer Dasht-e Azo is covered in colourful blooms, medicinal plants and tall grasslands, with clean air and a clear sky — a perfect setting for picnics, camping and stargazing. Visitors can drink from pristine springs and bathe in the region’s cool streams. For a better experience bring suitable footwear, warm clothing and camping equipment.
Along the Haraz Road, and especially around Polur village, there are several restaurants and traditional roadside taverns serving Iranian dishes, kebabs and stews at acceptable quality. There are no fixed restaurants or hospitality facilities within Darreh-ye Zaman itself; therefore visitors should either picnic beside the river at the start of the gorge or carry a light packed lunch for the walk.
Start early to see the gorge’s clear turquoise water; as visitor numbers increase, the water becomes muddied.
Check weather and rainfall forecasts before you go.
Because the route crosses water and rocky terrain, Darreh-ye Zaman is not suitable for young children, elderly visitors or those with mobility impairments.
Bring suitable footwear for hiking or water-walking (or trekking sandals), spare clothing and a towel, a small backpack or waist pack to keep hands free and maintain balance, a waterproof pouch for your phone and valuables, and a walking pole or trekking pole to help on the rocks.
Some sections of the gorge are deep and dangerous; consider travelling with a group or via an organised, professional tour.
Do not leave any waste (plastic, cigarette butts, bottles, etc.) in the natural environment.
Prefer mid-week days for your visit; the area becomes crowded at weekends.
If you have made a one-day trip to Darreh-ye Zaman or hold other information about this natural attraction, we would be pleased if you share your experiences and tips with the readers.
