A Journey to the Enchanting Nature of Chardavol

Thursday, June 11, 2026

SAEDNEWS: Chardavol County is one of the counties of Ilam Province in Iran, and its capital is the city of Sarableh. The majority of the population in Chardavol County are Kurdish speakers who speak in the Kalhori dialect.

A Journey to the Enchanting Nature of Chardavol

According to Saednews, Ilam is a land of greenery, mountains, and natural beauty. It is a mountainous region that, with its unique nature, mild climate, and the traditional customs of the Kurdish people of Iran, has become one of the country’s most attractive tourist destinations.

However, if you ever travel to Ilam, do not miss visiting Chardavol.

Chardavol County is one of the counties of Ilam Province, located 35 kilometers from the city of Ilam. Its administrative center is the city of Sarableh. The county covers an area of 2,236 square kilometers and has a population of about 82,000 people, situated in the northeastern part of Ilam Province.

This county is bordered by Kermanshah Province to the north, Lorestan Province to the east, and Ilam County to the west and south. The majority of its population are Kurdish people who speak the Kalhori dialect. Chardavol consists of two main geographical zones: mountainous areas and relatively flat plains.

In the mountainous region, dense forests of oak, wild almond, pistachio (baneh), maple, hawthorn, and tragacanth shrubs can be found. These highland areas also include rich pastures that provide suitable conditions for traditional livestock farming, which remains the main occupation of the residents in these areas.

Where is Chardavol?

According to Volume 5 of the Geographical Dictionary of Iran, drinking water in the rural districts is supplied from springs and rivers. The main agricultural products include wheat, barley, legumes, rice, and dairy products. The primary occupations of the people are farming and animal husbandry. Women’s handicrafts include weaving black tents and a type of white shawl used in men’s clothing. Some residents migrate in winter to the warm regions of Ney Khazal near the Iraq border.

Chardavol: A Living Painting of Color and Life

Chardavol is rich in ancient heritage. The county contains more than 200 historical and natural sites, of which 114 have been nationally registered as heritage monuments.

Among them are the ancient city of Sirwan Ancient City in the Shirvan area, Sassanian era Castle of Sam in the village of Cham Bour, and several Sassanian-era bridges.

The green mountains of this region are popular summer destinations for tourists and hikers. When traveling in the mountains of Chardavol, remember the names “Leneh” and “Charmineh,” two mountains located between the Shirvan-Chardavol regions.

Another historical structure is the Bijanvand (Bijonvand) historical bridge. Ancient mounds near Sarableh, the Hara Qalous fortress in the village of Mushkan, and defensive walls of Mount Khorreh are also among the attractions of the area.

Chardavol is usually visited in summer by tourists from Kermanshah, Lorestan, Hamedan, Khuzestan, and other provinces. The village of Sang Sefid is another notable attraction located in the central district, known for its mild valley climate that draws many visitors.

In fact, Sang Sefid and Zanjireh Olya are two designated tourist villages in Chardavol County. The Chenareh River flows through Sang Sefid, while Khorm Kooh and Ban Hazar Mountain are located in its northeastern area.

The ancient castles and historical city of Tang Qir, Tang Mansouri, suitable vegetation, medicinal plants, and dozens of historical remains are among the attractions of Sang Sefid village.