Lake Ovan in Alamut is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Qazvin province. To visit this lake, you have to traverse the winding roads of the Alamut mountains, which themselves offer a unique and breathtaking landscape, and finally reach Ovan. Upon reaching your destination, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of this lake and delight in seeing a turquoise gem nestled among the mountains. If you are a nature enthusiast, accompany Eligasht to become more familiar with Lake Ovan in Qazvin.
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Introduction to Lake Ovan in Alamut
First, let’s introduce Lake Ovan. This lake covers an area of over 70,000 square meters and is situated among the four villages of Ovan, Varin, Zavardasht, and Zarabad. The elevation of Lake Ovan from sea level is 1,815 meters, and its depth reaches up to 6 meters in the deepest parts.
“Ovan” in the local language means “a place full of water” and “a place where water gathers.” The water of this lake is supplied through springs at the bottom of the lake and rainwater, with a part of it overflowing as a river and irrigating the agricultural lands of the villages of Ayin and Kushk.
This lake is nestled beautifully amidst tall mountains and is an excellent destination for day trips from Tehran, Karaj, and Qazvin. Fortunately, in recent years, suitable amenities have been provided near the lake for tourists, so you will have no trouble with food, mineral water, accommodation, and sanitary services.
Key Features of the Lake Ovan
Crystal-Clear Waters: The lake’s clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a mesmerizing and tranquil scene.
Lush Vegetation: The area around the lake is covered with dense forests and meadows, providing a rich habitat for various flora and fauna.
Mountain Views: The Alborz Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the lake, enhancing its natural beauty and offering excellent opportunities for photography.
Vegetation Cover around Lake Ovan in Qazvin
The vegetation cover around Lake Ovan in Qazvin is very diverse. The area around this lake is filled with apple, Tabrizi, plane, willow, cherry, plum, almond, jujube, and walnut trees. In the watershed area of Lake Ovan, you can find plants from the Poaceae and Leguminosae families, and inside the lake, there are water lilies, seaweeds, and water horsetails. Additionally, plants like wild tulips, iris, and sweetbrier are plentiful in the surrounding mountains of Ovan.
Species of Wildlife in Lake Ovan
The wildlife in Lake Ovan includes a variety of animals such as leopards, brown bears, mountain goats, foxes, wolves, jackals, deer, black grouse, lynx, wild goats, eagles, vultures, owls, falcons, partridges, woodpeckers, green woodpeckers, magpies, turtles, frogs, and newts. Additionally, this lake is considered a habitat for various fish species like carp, rainbow trout, and catfish. Unfortunately, due to rampant hunting and habitat destruction, the populations of animals such as deer and goats in this area have decreased.
Recreational Activities at Lake Ovan in Qazvin
Recreational activities at Lake Ovan in Qazvin include bird watching, fishing, ice skating, boating, hiking, picnicking, and capturing stunning landscapes through photography. During the bird migration season (autumn), this lake is one of the best areas to observe birds such as ducks, geese, and swans.
Since Lake Ovan freezes in winter, enthusiasts can enjoy ice skating on its surface. Additionally, every year under the supervision of the Department of Environmental Protection of Qazvin and based on the ecological conditions of the wetland, several rounds of recreational fishing take place in the lake.
Best Time to Visit Lake Ovan
The best time to visit Lake Ovan is during spring. In this season, besides the lake being full of water, the trees and vegetation surrounding the lake display their vibrant spring greenery, and the mountains are adorned with wildflowers. Additionally, Lake Ovan is a great destination in the summer. In autumn, due to its location in the foothills of the Khashchal Mountains and its high altitude, the lake becomes significantly cold.
Lake Ovan in Winter has a very cold climate. If the access roads to this lake are open on snowy days, you can witness the most beautiful landscapes in this area and capture very beautiful photos of snowy scenery.
Facilities at Lake Ovan
Facilities at Lake Ovan include a parking area, a shop, and restroom services. Around this lake, spaces for camping are provided for travelers, and if you intend to stay the night in this area, you should bring sufficient equipment with you. Additionally, in recent years, private accommodations have been built around the lake where you can stay if you wish.
Note: There is no gas station around the lake, so you should fill up your car’s gas tank in Rajaei Dasht or Moalem Kelayeh before reaching this area.
Tips for Visiting Lake Ovan in Qazvin
Tips for visiting Lake Ovan in Qazvin include the following:
- During your visit to the lake, avoid damaging the grasslands and wetlands around it, as this can lead to sand and soil entering the lake during rainfall and clogging the outlets of the underground springs at its bottom.
- Refrain from littering into the lake.
- Avoid hunting native and migratory birds of the lake.
- Swimming in this lake is prohibited. Not only is it dangerous for the individual, but it also deters birds like cormorants and herons from visiting the lake.
- On your trip to this area, make sure to wear appropriate footwear, clothing, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. Due to the rugged terrain of the foothills and the surrounding vegetation around the lake, walking in this area without proper footwear can be challenging.
- On your way, ensure you have an adequate supply of bottled water and snacks. If you plan to stay the night in this area, don’t forget warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and a tent.
- If you intend to visit Lake Ovan in autumn and winter, be sure to have tire chains with you.
Where to stay at Ovan Lake
There are multiple options for accommodation while traveling to this region, as outlined below:
Camping: Adjacent to the lake, there are designated areas for travelers to pitch tents, equipped with amenities like toilets, parking spaces, etc. If opting to stay by the lake, it is advisable to bring warm clothing, essential food items, a sleeping bag, drinking water, etc.
Hotel accommodation: For those preferring hotels, it is recommended to choose from the various options available in Qazvin city. Once settled in the hotel, visitors can explore Alamut and Ovan using a private car, taxi, or rented minibus, and then return to the hotel after sightseeing. Some of the hotels in Qazvin include Marmar Hotel, Iranian Hotel, Behrouzi House Hotel, Sina Apartment Hotel, Alborz Hotel, Mino Hotel, Sports Hotel, and Mir Emad Hotel. For a more budget-friendly option with good facilities, Ovan Vision Guest House, located just 3 minutes away from Ovan Alamut Lake, is a suitable choice.
Eco-residences: Travelers also have the option to stay in eco-residences located in the Alamut region, Verban, Zarabad, Gazorkhan, and villages.
Where is Lake Ovan located?
Lake Ovan is located in the village of Moalem Kalaye, in the district of Rudbar-e Alamut in Qazvin. It is approximately 75 kilometers away from the city of Qazvin.
To access Lake Ovan, you need to start from Tehran and enter the Qazvin highway. After reaching “Minoodar Square” or “Gharibkosh Square,” you will see a sign for Alamut on the right. Enter this path and pass through challenging and mountainous passes with stunning views until you reach Rajaei Dasht. Then continue your journey for another three hours, and upon reaching a crossroads, enter the road to Lake Ovan. After traveling eight kilometers and passing through the village of Zarabad, you will arrive at Lake Ovan.
Travel Options
By Car: From Qazvin, drive towards the Alamut region, following the signs to Ovan Lake. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Public Transport: Buses and taxis are available from Qazvin to the Alamut region. From there, you can hire a local guide or take a short hike to the lake.
Guided Tours: Various tour operators offer guided tours to this Lake, providing transportation and guided activities.
Distances:
– Lake Ovan to Qazvin: 75 kilometers
– Lake Ovan to Tehran: 215 kilometers
– Lake Ovan to Karaj: 175 kilometers
– Lake Ovan to Hamedan: 314 kilometers
– Lake Ovan to Alamut Castle: 38 kilometers
Nearby attractions
When you visit Evan Lake, be sure to include exploring the nearby recreational spots in your itinerary. It is guaranteed to be an enjoyable experience.
Alamut castle
After you visit the lake, we recommend taking a one-hour journey to see the historic and renowned Alamut Castle. Situated atop a rocky cliff spanning over 20,000 square meters, this castle is a significant historical and picturesque site in Qazvin. Surrounded by lush green trees in valleys and ravines on all sides, the castle offers a breathtaking view of the Alamut region from its elevated position.
Address of Alamut Castle: Qazvin, Moalem Kalaye, North East of Gazorkhan village, Alamut Castle
Varchor waterfall
Varchor waterfall, situated 8 kilometers east of Razjerd village in Qazvin, is approximately an hour and 10 minutes away from the stunning Evan Lake. Cascading down from high rocks at a height of 30 meters, this waterfall offers a mesmerizing sight. Access to Varchor waterfall is via a dirt road, requiring a short walk to reach the site.
Address of Varchor waterfall: Qazvin, the beginning of Alamut road, Razjerd village, Varchor waterfall.
Garmarood waterfall
Garmarood waterfall, also known as Zanglan waterfall, is a must-see attraction in Qazvin located in Garmarood village. The path leading to the waterfall is rocky, so if you prefer easier trails, this may not be the best choice. With a height of 150 meters, the Garmarood waterfall is fed by the Azatar, Dinehrood, and Avatar mountains.
Address of Garmarod waterfall: 130 km from Qazvin city, 30 km from Moalem Kalaye city, Garmarod village, Garmarod waterfall
Final words
In this article, we introduced this Lake in Alamut, Qazvin. This lake is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Qazvin province and the Alamut region, with a short distance to the cities of Karaj and Tehran. If you are interested in experiencing a one-day trip to a beautiful area, we recommend heading to this lake in Alamut. You will enjoy seeing this beautiful lake amidst the towering mountains.
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FAQ
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What is the best time to visit Ovan Lake?
The best time to visit this Lake is during the spring and summer months (April to September), when the weather is pleasant, and the natural surroundings are at their most vibrant. During this time, the lake’s waters are clear, and the surrounding vegetation is lush.
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Can I camp near Ovan Lake?
Yes, camping is allowed near this Lake. There are designated camping areas where you can set up your tent and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Camping near the lake offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature.
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What wildlife can I expect to see around Ovan Lake?
The area around this Lake is home to various wildlife species, including birds, fish, and small mammals. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of bird species, while the lake itself is home to different fish species, making it a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.
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How far is Ovan Lake from Alamut Castle?
this Lake is located relatively close to Alamut Castle, making it possible to visit both attractions in a single trip. The distance between the lake and the castle is approximately 20-30 kilometers, and the journey offers scenic views of the Alborz Mountains and the surrounding countryside.