SAEDNEWS: If you would like to travel to one of the greenest and most beautiful villages in Iran, visit Shalma Village. In the following sections, you will become familiar with the sightseeing attractions of this village.
According to Saednews, Shalma is a village located in the central district of Masal County in Gilan Province. It is situated about 20 minutes from Masal city.
Shalma lies 11 kilometers from Masal and 63 kilometers from Rasht (the provincial capital). The village has a foothill climate and is surrounded by the Alborz mountain range. The local language of the region is Talysh, and most residents are engaged in livestock farming and agriculture.
The village is located 12 kilometers west of Masal, along the main road leading to the Olsabelangah highlands. The surrounding Alborz mountain range gives the village its beautiful natural scenery.
Due to the confluence of the Shalma and Chesli rivers, as well as the origin of the Khalka River flowing from the Shalma mountains and numerous bubbling springs within the village, locals refer to Shalma as the “source of waters.”
Additionally, at the heart of the village, five springs emerge from the ground among dense, towering trees, providing life and water to the inhabitants.
Shalma is an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience untouched nature, mountains, rivers, local cuisine, and handicrafts in a short and affordable trip. Caves, mineral stalactites, boxwood shrubs, and unique handicrafts exported to other provinces have turned Shalma into a tourist village.
If you travel to Masal and plan to visit its stunning highlands such as Shalma, it is highly recommended to also visit Olsabelangah and enjoy its dreamlike natural scenery.
Visitors are also encouraged to try traditional Gilan cuisine and purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs, which help support the village economy and make meaningful gifts.
Due to its excellent geographic location, proximity to the provincial center, and lush forested landscape, Shalma has become a peaceful destination for relaxation and holidays.
Nearby attractions include the pristine nature of Mirmahalleh village, Masal Coastal Park, Toli Nesa Waterfall, Masal Green Roof (Bam-e Sabz), Agha Seyed Reza shrine in Delijan, Rudkhan Castle, Avisho Cave, Chasli Waterfall in the Hyrcanian forests, Ramineh Waterfall, the Shananderman highlands, and the scenic village of Olsabelangah.
Chesli Waterfall:
Located about 2 kilometers from Shalma village in the heart of the Hyrcanian forests, Chesli Waterfall has a height of approximately 325 meters. It flows through a green tunnel of trees and is formed by water cascading from rocky mountain heights.
Avisho Cave:
Located 43 kilometers from Shalma, Avisho is a limestone cave estimated to be around 75 million years old. Water drips from the cave ceiling, evaporates, and leaves behind mineral deposits that form stalactites. The word “Avisho” is of Talysh origin: “Avo” means water and “Visho” means sinking or descending, which explains the cave’s name.
Shalma River:
The Shalma River is wild and very turbulent for part of the year. However, this does not prevent nature lovers from visiting the area, especially during warm seasons. Passing through rice fields filled with the aroma of rice, the river creates a refreshing and scenic natural environment surrounded by forests and farmland.
Shalma Shrine (Imamzadeh):
The shrine of Shalma holds special significance among local residents. Located amid mountainous forests, it provides a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. It is believed to be the burial place of Agha Seyed Mehdi and Agha Seyed Reza Ali, considered descendants of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (AS).
The shrine has a simple wooden lattice structure. Local people have strong faith in this holy site, and large mourning ceremonies are held during Muharram, with processions arriving from nearby villages.
Shalma has a mild and humid climate, making spring the best season to visit this beautiful village.
Gilan Province also offers numerous eco-lodges and locally managed accommodations for tourists.
Shalma is located along the road leading to Chesli village. To reach it, travelers follow the main highland road, turn left toward the rural route, and continue until reaching the center of Shalma, then proceed toward the cool and scenic Chesli village.
