Hezar Mosque is a stunning mountain range that rises in the northern part of Khorasan-Razavi province, acting as a natural divider between the smooth plains of Mashhad and the arid desert of Qaraqom in Turkmenistan. The highest peak, Chekad, stands at about 3140 meters and is located 78 kilometers northwest of Mashhad. Strolling through the valleys and lush forests of Hezar Mosque, you can’t help but feel uplifted by the pristine nature around you.
The area is filled with waterfalls, rivers, and meadows, all shrouded in a mystical fog that creates a paradise-like atmosphere. This mountain range, stretching 497 kilometers and covering 25,800 square kilometers, is home to vibrant villages and draws in countless tourists and nature enthusiasts each year.
The Harirod River, known as Tajen in this region, carves through the hills and marks the border between Iran and Turkmenistan, with the hills reaching heights of around 250 meters. To the south of the Sarakhs region, the Hezar Mosque mountain range features hills that don’t exceed 800 meters in height.
The landscape, blanketed in lush green grass and surrounded by mountains adorned with juniper trees, captivates everyone who sees it. As you ascend, the mountains become more untouched and secluded, with fog adding a dreamy quality to the scenery. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful waterfalls worth visiting. The local flora mainly includes gavan and a plant whose roots are used to make siresham glue. Notable attractions in the area include Chaharrah village, Olang Haidar, and the stunning Noorali waterfall. Plus, you can hop on tractors that serve as taxis to easily navigate through the valleys.
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Accessing the Hezar Mosque
You can get to the various fronts of the Hezar Mosque mountain range via several routes. The most popular one is through the village of Layin No and Robat, which are close to Kalat Naderi. This path leads you to Nurali waterfall and Olang Haidar. To explore the lush green slopes of the Thousand Mosque mountains, start from Mashhad and head to Kalat Naderi. From there, make your way to Rabat village, located 35 km along the Kalat-Naderi-Darghaz road. You can either take an off-road vehicle or hike up the mountain slopes to reach the heights. Spring is the ideal time to visit this hidden gem, as Hazar Mosque enjoys perfect weather, and the plains and slopes are vibrant with greenery, while the waterfalls and rivers are flowing beautifully.
Attractions of Hezar Mosque
Views of a Hezar Mosque
The folks at Hezar Mosque hold this mountain in high regard, believing that Hazrat Ali prayed for it and pointed it out. They appreciate the lush greenery and plentiful water that comes from that prayer, which is reflected in the beauty of a thousand mosques. The Hezar Mosque mountain range boasts stunning peaks, waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking landscapes, making a trip to this area an unforgettable adventure.
Olang Haidar Hezar Mosque
Olang refers to the expansive green fields found on the slopes of the Hazara Mosque mountain range. One particularly stunning spot is the Ulong Haider Mosque, a pristine area perfect for camping and soaking in nature. During spring, nomads often spend time in these olangs, which are dotted with juniper trees.
Nurali Waterfall
One of the seasonal gems of Hazar Mosque is the Nurali waterfall, which comes to life in spring. Nestled at high altitudes near Olang Haydar and the main peak of Hazar Mosque, the scenery surrounding this waterfall is among the most picturesque in the region.
Arabchah Villa
Arabchah is another nomadic settlement within Hazar Masjid, known for its river that flows more abundantly than in other areas. This spot is perfect for an overnight stay, complete with shelters built by the nomads.
Qaleh At Kulag (Horse Ear)
A well-known peak in the Hezar Mosque mountain range is Horse’s Ear Peak, or At Kulag in Turkish. Located in the Nurali region, it’s just a short distance from the peak of a thousand mosques. This peak features two large rocks resembling horse ears, which is how it got its name.
Olang Shahi
Another notable Olang is the Olang Shahi Mosque, accessible from Bakhamaj village in Chenaran county. Olang Shahi is a vast, green plain with a lively river flowing through it. From anywhere in Olang Shahi, you can catch a glimpse of the peak of the thousand mosques.
Staying in the Thousand Mosques
If you’re into nature tourism, camping in the heart of the Hezar Mosque mountains is a fantastic choice. There are also some great eco-tourism accommodations in the nearby cities and villages, like the Khane Pedari residence in Arabchah village and Diyar residence in Kalat Naderi. For those looking for a more luxurious stay, you can check out the Sepideh Hotel in Darges or some top-notch hotels in Mashhad, including Pars Hotel, Qasretalaei Hotel, Darvishi Hotel, Almas Hotel, Javad Hotel, and Pardisan Hotel, which are among the best in Iran.
Best time to visit Hezar Mosque
The ideal months for reaching the summit of the Hezar mosques are April and May. During these times, the weather is much more pleasant, as summer brings intense heat, while fall and winter can be quite harsh with cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, making travel tricky due to rain and snow.
If you’re planning to go, you can stay overnight in Baba Ramadan if it gets dark on your journey. From there, you can head to Chaharah village, then make your way back to Rabat before continuing on to the mountains of a thousand mosques.
You can drive a passenger car all the way to Chaharah village.
Final words
The Hezar Mosque mountain range in Khorasan is a stunning blend of breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, and rich culture. As more people flock to this spot for adventure and peace, it’s crucial to enjoy its beauty while also taking care of the environment. This mountain range showcases the timeless charm of nature, inspiring us to discover, understand, and safeguard these valuable natural treasures.
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FAQ
What is the Hezar Mosque Mountain Range?
The Hezar Mosque Mountain Range is a prominent mountain range located in the Khorasan region of Iran. It features stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, and rich biodiversity, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Where is Khorasan located?
Khorasan is a historical region in northeastern Iran, bordered by Turkmenistan to the north and Afghanistan to the east. It is known for its cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty.
What is the significance of the name “Hezar Mosque”?
The name “Hezar Mosque” translates roughly to “Thousand Mosques” which may refer to the numerous mosques and religious sites that can be found in this region, reflecting its historical and cultural significance in Islamic heritage.
What activities can visitors enjoy in the Hezar Mosque Mountain Range?
Visitors to the Hezar Mosque Mountain Range can engage in a variety of activities, including:
Hiking and trekking
Photography of landscapes and wildlife
Birdwatching
Cultural exploration of nearby historical sites
What is the best time to visit the Hezar Mosque Mountain Range?
The best time to visit is typically during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Summers can be hot, while winters can bring snow and cold temperatures.
What kind of wildlife can be found in the area?
The Hezar Mosque Mountain Range is home to a variety of wildlife, including native mammals, birds, and plant species. This diversity contributes to its ecological significance and appeal for nature enthusiasts.