Heyran Pass is a familiar name for travel enthusiasts and those who love the northern region of Iran. As we know, Gilan Province is considered one of the most beautiful and greenest areas in the country, boasting numerous attractions and sights. Throughout the year, the province hosts a large number of travelers and tourists who come for recreation and exploration in this area. One of the notable attractions of the province is this pass, which is a busy route and holds strategic and significant tourism importance for the residents of northern Iran.
Address: The main road from Ardabil to Astara, at the beginning of the Ardabil tunnel and 5 kilometers from the city of Astara.
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Heyran Pass
Heyran Pass is considered one of the sights in the Astara area, serving as a communication route between Ardabil and Astara, and geographically classified as part of Gilan. This pass is divided into three different villages named Upper Heyran, Middle Heyran, and Lower Heyran. Interestingly, Heyran means “an area surrounded by fog and clouds,” derived from the Talesh language. This region is often covered in fog and clouds, just as its name suggests. The presence of this fog and cloud is not solely due to the height of the entire area but is mainly due to the elevation of the pass itself. The area is 1,500 meters above sea level, and many experts believe that the humidity created by the Caspian Sea is the primary cause of the fog and clouds in this region and its surroundings.
Geographical Location of the Pass
This pass is situated along the communication route between Ardabil and Astara, bordered on one side by a forest and on the other by a relatively deep valley. This unique geographical position makes Heyran Pass particularly notable. The Aras River flows through the heart of the valley adjacent to the pass, marking the border between Azerbaijan and Iran. Additionally, the three villages of Haji Amir Bala, Haji Amir Payin, and Vaneh Bin are located around this pass. These villages have significant geographical and political security in the region. One of the beauties of the area is that upon entering the pass, you will encounter numerous tunnels filled with fog and clouds.
It is worth mentioning that many domestic animals also inhabit the beautiful and perpetually green roadside of this area. The geographical position of the pass has led to most residents’ livelihoods being tied to animal husbandry and agriculture. The existence of breathtaking and stunning landscapes has created exceptional opportunities for tourism and investment in this area, all promising a bright future ahead.
Memorable Driving in the Heyran Pass
This pass has numerous and astonishing beauties, yet we hear distressing news every year about drivers getting into accidents there. The Heyran Pass is often shrouded in fog and clouds throughout the four seasons. This region is where the first snowfalls of Gilan province occur, and due to its slippery roads and dangerous turns, it leads to multiple accidents.
In most cases, the accidents that occur result in significant financial losses and human casualties. Therefore, when traveling, we recommend that you drive with great care and enjoy the sights along this beautiful road. First and foremost, you should ensure the safety of your vehicle, and adequate driving skills will be of utmost importance during this trip. We advise you to refrain from driving on this road if your driving skills are not suitable.
Winter in Heyran
The Heyran Pass is a four-season area that is beautiful in spring and summer, while its winter is considered magical and enchanting. The first winter snow covers this entire pass in white and increases accident statistics. However, don’t forget that being in a snow-covered area with beautiful and bare trees grants a profound tranquility to the human spirit. If you plan to pass through this pass in the winter, make sure to travel with complete heating equipment. Don’t forget that tire chains are also one of the essential requirements for traveling to this pass.
Cable Car Riding in the Heyran Pass
As previously mentioned, the Heyran Pass has an abundance of beauties that can attract tourists and travelers. The geographical location of this area and its mountainous region have led to the establishment of a cable car aimed at developing tourism culture for this pass. The cable car, which officially started operating in 2011 as part of the initiative to enhance tourism attractions, is equipped with all apparatus imported from Austria and is considered one of the safest cable cars in the country. By taking this cable car, you will embark on a 1,500-meter journey, which is also at an altitude of 1,720 meters above sea level.
An appealing mountainous environment with breathtaking and unique views undoubtedly has the power to restore lost tranquility to you. Among the beautiful and scenic places to visit is the Shindan Castle or the Grave of Babak, which dates back to the Sassanid era and is located in the Republic of Azerbaijan. If you plan to travel to Ardabil province or western Gilan, don’t forget to visit the Heyran Pass and this incredible cable car. This cable car, initiated with significant investment, is currently regarded as one of the best tourist attractions in the region.
The Stunning Route of the Heyran Pass
The main road of the Heyran Pass is considered a very popular and dreamy route. It has many twists and turns that traverse through the lush Hyrcanian forests of the northern part of the country, delighting the eyes and souls of all viewers. Along the way, you will encounter numerous locals selling their agricultural and livestock products. Be sure to buy local honey from these vendors. Passing through the beautiful Hyrcanian forests and watching the valley located beneath the pass, where the border river between Azerbaijan and Iran flows, is exceptionally captivating. Without a doubt, all these beauties will persuade you to make your way to this region at the first opportunity.
Nearby attractions
Fandoghlu forests
One of the most beautiful forests in Iran, known for its chamomile fields and hazelnut trees, is the Fandoghlu forests. These chamomile meadows are so stunning and captivating that a major chamomile festival is held in this area every year. In addition, the hazelnuts in this forest are abundant, especially during the season when this fruit or nut becomes plentiful, making it one of the best times of the year to visit.
However, the appeal of Fandoghlu is not limited to its chamomile flower meadows; the cable car, which is the focus of our introduction, the grass ski slope, and the hot spring located in the area have also contributed to the popularity and reputation of this forest among people.
Fandoghlu forest spans 16,000 hectares, extending from the east of the village of Hoor to the section of the road that connects the cities, and from there to the east of the village of Khanqah Aliyah. The forest is home to various fruits and trees, including strawberries, sour cherries, apples, raspberries, and a plethora of hazelnuts.
Astara City
One of the most beautiful cities in Iran, located in the Talesh region, is Astara. Geographically, this city lies precisely between the Caspian Sea and the Talesh Mountains and is one of the cities in East Azerbaijan Province.
Do you know why this city is called Astara? It is because travelers passing through this area encountered many marshy and boggy regions along their route, so they referred to it as “Aaste roo” over time, which eventually simplified to “Astara.”
Astara boasts numerous and exquisite attractions, among which we can name the Levandevill Wildlife Sanctuary, the Shell Beach from the Gilan side, the international Astil Lake, the Bibi Yanloo Forest Park, the large coastal market of Astara, Astara tea, the tourism village of Heyran, the village of Kote Komeh, the Astara Bird Garden, and many other attractions.
The best time to visit Astara is during the spring and summer, primarily because the city is located in a mountainous region with a humid climate, resulting in most days of the year being wet and rainy. We have provided a complete article about everything you need to know regarding Astara, and if you wish, you can learn more about this pleasant city through that article.
A beautiful village named Heyran
One of the attractions close to the Heyran pass, which you will see during your journey, is the village of Heyran, situated about 30 kilometers from Astara. This interesting village is further divided into three smaller and more significant sections called Upper Heyran, Lower Heyran, and Middle Heyran.
An interesting note about this village is that although most of its inhabitants are farmers, in recent years, due to the increasing importance of tourism and the recognition of their village along with its surrounding attractions, the people of Heyran have engaged in activities such as producing and crafting local handicrafts and souvenirs, cooking and serving various traditional and local dishes, and offering eco-lodging and similar activities.
Masal to Heyran Pass
Between Masal and Heyran Pass, which are among the other tourist attractions in Gilan province, there is a distance of 176 kilometers. Traveling at an average speed of 100 kilometers per hour will take you to Masal. After a journey of about two and a half hours, you can reach the beautiful summer resort of “Olasblengah,” a name well-known to the residents of northern Iran. Masal is a tourist area that attracts numerous visitors seeking relaxation and enjoyment.
Tehran to Heyran Pass
The distance from Tehran to Heyran Pass is approximately 633 kilometers. If you plan to travel from this city to the pass at a speed of 100 kilometers per hour, you will reach your destination after about 7 hours. Heyran is described as a paradise on earth and a paradise of Iran, capable of creating unforgettable and exciting moments for you.
Final words
Heyran, the bride of Iran’s roads, has a winding road that is so beautiful and eye-catching that one crossing is unlikely to be enough to take it all in. Each season brings its own beauty to this road. Indeed, beautiful Iran is full of wonders and scenic areas, each capable of providing you with unique experiences. As a final note, if your travel season to Heyran Pass is in winter, be sure to bring snow chains, heating equipment, and a properly functioning vehicle to safely traverse the pass and reach your destination.
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FAQ
Where is Heyran Pass located?
Heyran Pass is situated in the Alborz mountain range in northern Iran, specifically in the Ardabil province. It connects the cities of Ardabil and Astara, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
What is the significance of Heyran Pass?
Heyran Pass is significant for its breathtaking natural scenery, which includes lush green forests, steep slopes, and panoramic views of the Caspian Sea. It’s a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers, especially for its dramatic landscapes and beautiful hiking trails.
What can visitors do at Heyran Pass?
Visitors to Heyran Pass can enjoy various activities, including hiking, photography, and picnicking. The area is well-known for its rich flora and fauna, and there are several viewpoints where visitors can capture stunning images of the mountains and valleys.
What is the best time to visit Heyran Pass?
The best time to visit Heyran Pass is during the late spring and summer months (May to September) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit for those interested in experiencing the colorful foliage.