SAEDNEWS: Darband Rashi Cave is one of Iran’s historical caves where, according to archaeological excavations, evidence of prehistoric human habitation has been discovered. Join us as we explore this remarkable cave in Gilan and uncover its ancient secrets.
According to the tourism service of Saed News, Darband Rashi Cave is one of the remarkable attractions and tourist destinations of Gilan Province. It is located south of Rashi Village in the Rahmatabad and Blukat District of Rudbar County, at an elevation of approximately 750 meters above sea level.
This ancient site consists of two main caves: the large “Kouil Gar” Cave, about 60 meters long, and “Darband B” Cave, approximately 30 meters long. The entrances of both caves face south. Darband Rashi Cave is the only known cave in Iran containing archaeological remains from the Lower Paleolithic period.
The cave lies near the beautiful village of Estakhrgah, one of the most scenic villages in Gilan and among the notable attractions of Rudbar. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Dorfak and surrounded by towering forests, Estakhrgah offers visitors a natural waterfall, an extraordinary forest trail, and a charming, untouched rural landscape with diverse vegetation.
Archaeological excavations conducted in 2012 (1391 in the Iranian calendar) uncovered stone tools along with numerous animal fossils, including those of bear, deer, wild cattle, and mountain goat. Most of the remains belonged to an extinct species of bear discovered in Iran for the first time.
Previously, paleontologists believed that the habitat of this bear species extended from Western Europe to the eastern Caucasus Mountains. However, the discovery of its remains in Darband Rashi Cave indicates that these large bears once lived in the western Alborz region as well.
Several teeth found in the cave were dated using radiometric methods and are estimated to be more than 200,000 years old. During a relatively warm and humid period—when the Dorfak region was covered in forests—humans temporarily used the cave as shelter. They crafted stone tools such as scrapers and awls from volcanic rocks and flint.
In addition to visiting the cave, travelers can explore the beautiful region of Si Dasht, which is often covered in mist during spring and summer. Si Dasht welcomes visitors with its lush plains and scenic valleys, including Palang Dareh.
Strawberries are the main product of Si Dasht’s highlands, and every year in June, a Strawberry Festival is held there. Many tourists visit the area to participate in the festival and purchase fresh, locally grown strawberries.
Mount Dorfak is also located near Darband Rashi Cave and attracts many mountaineers and nature enthusiasts. The peak of Dorfak, known as the rooftop of Gilan Province, is an extinct volcano situated between Rudbar and Siahkal counties. The slopes of the mountain are adorned with the natural beauty of the Shirkouh forest.
The best time to visit Darband Rashi Cave is during the first half of the year, when the surrounding nature is lush and vibrant, and the gentle spring mist enhances the experience. It is recommended to begin the hike to the cave before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m. to avoid the midday sun.
Address: Gilan Province, Rudbar County, Rahmatabad and Blukat District, south of Rashi Village.
