Pooneh Zar Waterfall

Pooneh Zar Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and tallest waterfalls in Iran. At roughly 75 metres high, it lies amid the mountain scenery of Isfahan Province, near Darband village, beyond the village of Chaghiurt (Pushtkuh). It is located in the Pooneh Zar Valley, deep in the heights of the central Zagros, and counts among the tallest waterfalls in the province. Moss-covered cliff walls, extensive growth of pennyroyal and mint plants, and wild barberry trees all around create a dreamlike, soothing atmosphere, and in spring they bring an unmatched fragrance of the region's wild flowers.

The route to the waterfall passes through unspoiled mountain wilderness and takes about half an hour on foot. The walk is accompanied by the sound of running water, fresh air, wild flowers and striking landscapes, turning the fatigue of the trail into pleasure. The old names of the route are "Akhoreh Paein" (Lower Akhoreh) and "Akhoreh Bala" (Upper Akhoreh), which are still used among locals. Within the waterfall area, several cool, sweet perennial springs flow, fed by melting snow and glaciers on the surrounding peaks. The tall, green walls of the waterfall offer a pleasing colour and a landscape full of life, which is ideal for photography and for a rest along the way.

At the higher elevations of this area, plant diversity is very high, and many medicinal plants and wild flowers grow around the springs and on the slopes. Pooneh Zar Waterfall is part of a rich group of natural resources, and springs such as Langan Spring and Lapeh Spring are also located nearby. Langan Spring is one of the highest-flow springs in the region, and its water is used as drinking water for the people of Fereydunshahr. Lapeh Spring lies about two kilometres from it, and its special feature is its periodic discharge: about every 15 minutes, water gushes out of the ground and then stops.

Overall, the Pooneh Zar Waterfall area and the springs around it not only showcase the natural, unspoiled face of the Zagros slopes, but with a mild mountain climate and distinctive vegetation, they are one of the best choices for nature trips in Isfahan Province, especially in spring and summer. To reach Pooneh Zar Waterfall, take the roads leading to Fereydunshahr County from the direction of Isfahan or Shahrekord. After entering the town, follow the route to Pushtkuh village and the Pooneh Zar junction. After about 13 kilometres of driving on a green mountain road, you will reach the waterfall's car park. From here, an easy to moderate walking trail of about 15 to 30 minutes begins through nature, with fairly steep sections in places, so caution is advised. Access is free, and depending on your fitness, you can reach the foot of the waterfall or even the upper sections.