Talaei Waterfall of Makhmalkuh

Talaei Waterfall (the "Golden Waterfall"), also known as Darreh Garm Waterfall, lies in the north of Khorramabad on the slopes of Makhmalkuh and is renowned as Iran's only natural waterfall within a city. This beautiful waterfall sits within the urban fabric yet has kept its natural character, offering a rare blend of nature and city. It is about 7 meters high, and its water spills with considerable width into the pools below, which offer a delightful chance to swim on hot summer days. The name "Talaei" (golden) comes from the surrounding vegetation, the layers of lichen and the algae, which turn golden in summer and create a distinctive landscape.

The way to Talaei Waterfall in Makhmalkuh is by rural roads and a short walk through mountain scenery. Along the way you can enjoy beautiful views of forests, pastures and small streams, making for an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. The soothing sound of water and the cool air of the area create a peaceful place to rest. To reach the waterfall, start from Valiasr Street (Kiu Square) and head toward Makhmalkuh. You can drive this route, but some sections require walking, so bring suitable footwear. On the way you will pass through the Sarisu or Sarastan area, which has a clear spring. The whole walk takes about 2 to 3 hours, and may take a little longer if you stop for photography or rest. The vegetation here is very diverse and includes oak, hawthorn, maple, walnut, fig, poplar and white poplar trees. Together with the colorful lichens that cover the mountainside like a velvet cloth, these plants give the area a scenic, eye-catching look. In summer, colorful wildflowers also grow here and double its beauty.

The Talaei Park project is under construction around the waterfall. Covering nearly 44 hectares, it is planned to provide green space, amenities and a direct route to the slopes of Makhmalkuh. Nearby attractions are also worth a visit, such as Kiu Lake with its clear, deep blue water, the Makhmalkuh peak at about 1,900 meters, and scenic gorges such as Shabikhun. The best time to visit is from mid-spring to early summer, when the water flow is greater and the golden color of the vegetation is brighter. When you visit, practice responsible nature tourism, from collecting your litter and staying on marked trails to protecting the vegetation, to help preserve this natural wonder for future generations.