Northern Iran has always been recognized as one of the popular tourist destinations. However, among all the cities and remarkable areas in this region, Shirgah in Mazandaran province holds a special place. This small city with its pristine nature and numerous attractions is an ideal place for short and relaxing trips. In this article from Eligasht, we will introduce Shirgah comprehensively and explore its tourist attractions.
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Where is Shirgah located?
Shirgah is one of the northern cities of Iran and the center of Savadkuh-e Shomali county in Mazandaran province. It is also known as the “City of Bridges” due to the numerous bridges it houses. It borders Qaem Shahr to the north and Savadkuh to the south, surrounded by the Alborz mountain range. Due to its mountainous and cool climate, this region is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the warm seasons.
History of Shirgah
Mazandaran province is one of the historical regions of Iran known in the past as Tabarestan. Various cities in this province, including Shirgah, encompass numerous historical sites reflecting the rich history of this area. As a part of Central Alborz and Mazandaran province, Shirgah has inherited a significant portion of this history. During the Safavid era, the Shushtar road passed through this city, and many bridges were constructed in this area. Additionally, during the Russian invasion of Iran, some Russian soldiers resided in this region.
The Origin of the Name Shirgah
The name Shirgah might seem peculiar at first glance. Some believe that this name is derived from the abundance of trees in this area known as “Shir-dar.” Others attribute the naming to the humidity and dampness of the air, recognized in Tabari language as “shir.”
Sights of Shirgah: A Unique Combination of Nature and History
Shirgah, with its lush forests, tall waterfalls, and beautiful valleys, is a place that captivates any nature enthusiast. In addition, the presence of historical bridges and ancient structures adds to the allure of this region. Here, we introduce some of the important sights of Shirgah.
Shirgah Waterfall
Located in a protected area, Shirgah Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. With its breathtaking height and crystal-clear water flowing from the heart of the rocks, it mesmerizes any viewer. The surrounding area is covered with a variety of vegetation, including tall trees, ferns, and native plants. With its vast and pristine forests, this area provides a peaceful and delightful environment for tourists.
Shirgah Waterfall is an excellent place for recreation and leisure. Tourists can enjoy walking on the forest trails nearby, relishing the unspoiled nature and clean air of the region. Moreover, for photography enthusiasts, this waterfall and its surrounding landscapes offer a unique opportunity to capture beautiful and memorable moments.
Palang Dareh Forest and Waterfall
In the northeast of Shirgah, you will find the Palang Dareh Forest and Waterfall. This area is known as a popular destination for nature lovers. To access this waterfall, you need to travel approximately 13 kilometers from the Natural Resources Conservation Outpost on a dirt road. The beauty of its lush forests will leave you in awe.
Palang Dareh Forest, with its verdant trees and diverse plant cover, provides a pleasant and tranquil environment for tourists. Along the way to the waterfall, the sound of rushing water and the songs of birds accompany you, offering a unique experience of nature exploration. With its cool and refreshing water, Palang Dareh Waterfall is a perfect place to rest and enjoy nature.
Dehgolan Village
The picturesque Dehgolan village represents the initial scenic area of Shirgah, characterized by its remarkable silence and tranquility. This serene environment is particularly appealing to tourists and travelers seeking respite. For those in search of an untouched, verdant, and exceptionally peaceful rural setting, a visit to Dehgolan village is highly recommended. The residents of this village are known for their warmth and hospitality, while the lush landscape and frequent rainfall rejuvenate the spirit. Embarking on a nature excursion along the region’s flowing rivers will undoubtedly be a rewarding experience. The vistas of this village rank among the most pristine and seldom encountered in our natural world.
Lake Lafur
Another captivating area near Shirgah is Lake Lafur. This lake, also known as Lafur Dam or Alborz Dam, is situated amidst the lush forests of Hirkan. To access Lake Lefour, you can take the Firuzkuh Road or the Haraz Road to Babol and then head to Babol Kenar.
With its clear and tranquil waters, Lake Lafur provides a pleasant environment for leisure activities. The area around the lake is covered with dense and verdant forests that display beautiful and eye-catching landscapes. This lake is also a suitable place for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.
Kalijkheyl Plains in Nowabad
The beautiful village of Kalijkheyl is located 5 kilometers north of Savadkuh. This lush area is particularly stunning in spring and autumn, with flower-filled plains showcasing breathtaking views. If you seek tranquility and fresh air, this village is an excellent destination for you.
The Kalijkheyl Plains in Nowabad with their colorful flowers and pristine nature provide a peaceful and delightful environment for tourists. In this area, you can enjoy walking through the plains and foothills, savoring the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. Additionally, this area is an excellent spot for nature photography and capturing beautiful moments.
Andargoli Forest
Andargoli Forest is located next to a village of the same name and is one of the natural attractions of Shirgah. This untouched and pristine forest is an excellent place to escape the city hustle and spend a few days in the heart of nature.
Andargoli Forest, with its tall trees and diverse plant cover, offers a peaceful and pleasant environment for tourists. In this forest, you can enjoy walking on natural trails, relishing the fresh air and beautiful views. Additionally, this area is suitable for camping and nature enthusiasts.
Kaslian River
The Kaslian River is located near Shirgah and is a popular destination for water activities and river rafting in the summer. To reach this beautiful river, you must take a short hike from Shirgah.
With its clear and cool water, the Kaslian River is an excellent place for recreation and relaxation on hot summer days. Tourists can experience enjoyable and memorable hours by engaging in water activities in this river and enjoying the nature around it. Additionally, this area is very suitable for picnics and spending leisure time with family and friends.
The historical bridge of Shah Abbasi, located on the ancient Shah Abbasi road, was constructed during the Safavid reign using bricks, mortar, and plaster. Spanning the river Kaslian or Roshan Talar, the bridge measures 57 meters in length and 5 meters in width, excluding the parapet. It consists of two spans, with the northern span being larger than the south span. Additionally, in the vicinity, there is the Shapur bridge, likely dating back to the Qajar period, situated on the Otjun River in Chai Bagh lands, approximately 50 meters from the east side of the Shirgah-Qaemshahr road.
Cheshme Ali Shirgah
Near the Veresk Bridge, one of the most famous old bridges in northern Iran, there is a beautiful and astonishing valley situated along a semi-forested path. Cheshme Ali Waterfall, with a height of approximately 20 meters, is one of the natural attractions near Shirgah.
Cheshme Ali, with its clear and cool water, is a delightful place for relaxation and enjoying nature. The area around this spring is covered with tall trees and native plants, providing a serene and pleasant environment for tourists. This area is a unique place for nature lovers and photographers to capture stunning natural landscapes.
The Sonbol Rood Dam
The Sonbol Rood Dam, located in the Shirgah area, is a prominent natural attraction in Mazandaran province. Situated just 8 km from Shirgah, this earthen dam spans approximately 889 meters in length and stands at a height of 23 meters. With an estimated width of 10 meters, the dam serves as a crucial water reservoir for the region, supporting activities such as fish breeding and agriculture. Additionally, the dam has transformed the surrounding lands into a picturesque entertainment complex spanning 40 hectares. Visitors can enjoy a range of tourism and leisure facilities, including restrooms, pavilions, supermarkets, and boating opportunities. The pleasant climate of the area makes it an ideal location for camping.
Narenj Bon Neighborhood
The Narenj Bon neighborhood stands out as another captivating destination within Shirgah, particularly enchanting during the spring season. Allow us to share a well-kept secret cherished by the residents of Tehran. Whenever an opportunity arises, the inhabitants of the capital flock to the Narenj Bon neighborhood in Shirgah. This area is renowned in Mazandaran for its natural beauty and unspoiled charm. A river named Kaslian meanders through this locale, enhancing its allure. The optimal times to appreciate the splendor of this neighborhood are during the spring and summer months.
Sartapeh Shirgah Railway Bridge
A notable attraction in Shirgah is the Sartapeh railway bridge, which dates back to the first Pahlavi period and is situated in the Sartapeh Shirgah neighborhood. This structure was designated as a national monument in 1384. The area’s tourist and natural attractions extend beyond the bridge, with the access road offering stunning natural landscapes that captivate every visitor.
Best Time to Travel to Shirgah
Shirgah, due to its mountainous climate, has its charm in all seasons. However, the best season to travel to this area is spring when its lush nature and cool air offer an unparalleled experience. Summer, with its mild weather, is also a suitable destination to escape the heat of other cities. Early autumn transforms Shirgah into a myriad of colors, showcasing breathtaking views.
How to Get to Shirgah?
To travel to Shirgah, you need to get yourself to Mazandaran Province. The best access route is from the Firuzkuh Road. By passing through this road, you will need to cross the White Bridge and the underwater passage to reach Shirgah. Additionally, the Tehran-North railway also passes through this city and is one of the most picturesque railway stations that you can visit as an attractive destination.
Souvenirs of Shirgah
Shirgah has a variety of souvenirs due to its pristine nature and local products. Popular souvenirs in this area include various jams, natural honey, medicinal herbs, and dairy products. Additionally, local handicrafts such as rugs and jajim are valuable souvenirs of Shirgah.
Traditional Foods and Restaurants in Shirgah
During your trip to Shirgah, you can enjoy the local and traditional foods of this region. Local restaurants offering fresh and delicious dishes provide a different experience for your journey. Some popular dishes in Shirgah include Kotlet Kabab, Smoked Fish, local stews, and various seafood dishes.
Enjoying the Trip to Shirgah by Train
One of the enjoyable experiences of traveling to this place is by train. The northern railway provides a memorable experience for travelers with its beautiful natural landscapes and interesting stations. The Shirgah railway station is also one of the most interesting stations on this route that you can visit.
Final Words
With its pristine nature and numerous attractions, Shirgah is an ideal place for peaceful multi-day trips. From beautiful forests and waterfalls to historical bridges and quaint villages, all are reasons that make a trip to Shirgah memorable. If you are looking for a different and wonderful destination, include Shirgah in your travel plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1- Where is Shirgah located and how can one access it?
Shirgah is one of the northern cities of Iran and the center of Savadkuh Shomali County in Mazandaran Province. To access Shirgah, you can use the Firuzkuh Road. Additionally, the Tehran-North railway passes through this city and terminates at one of the most interesting railway stations, which leads to Shirgah.
2- What is the best time of year to travel to Shirgah?
The best time to travel to Shirgah is in the spring when its lush nature and cool weather provide a unique experience for tourists. Summer also offers a pleasant destination to escape the heat of other cities. Early autumn transforms Shirgah’s nature into a thousand colors and displays breathtaking landscapes.
3- What souvenirs can be purchased from Shirgah?
Shirgah offers a variety of souvenirs due to its pristine nature and local products. Popular souvenirs in this area include various jams, natural honey, medicinal herbs, and dairy products. Additionally, local handicrafts such as rugs and jajim are valuable souvenirs of Shirgah.
4- Is it possible to travel to Shirgah by train?
Yes, the Tehran-North railway passes through Shirgah and is one of the most interesting railway stations that you can visit as an attractive destination. Traveling to Shirgah by train will be a memorable experience.
5- What local foods can be found in Shirgah?
During your trip to Shirgah, you can enjoy the local and traditional foods of this region. Some popular dishes in Shirgah include Kotlet Kabab, Smoked Fish, local stews, and various seafood dishes. Local restaurants offering fresh and delicious dishes provide a different experience for your journey.