Abbas Abad Lake

Abbas Abad Lake is one of the natural and historical attractions of Mazandaran Province. It lies near the city of Behshahr, in the heart of the historic Abbas Abad Gardens complex. Located about 10 kilometres southeast of Behshahr, the lake is set amid the dense, lush forests of northern Iran. With an area of nearly 10 hectares, it is considered one of the most beautiful artificial lakes in Iran. It was created by Safavid-era engineers on the orders of Shah Abbas I, and the small brick tower visible in the middle of the lake is a relic of that period. In seasons when the water level is high, only the upper part of this structure rises above the surface, offering visitors a distinctive and picturesque view.

Abbas Abad Lake, with an area of about 10 hectares and a variable depth reaching 18 metres at its centre, was formed in the Safavid period by the construction of a dam made of mudbrick and sarooj (a traditional waterproof lime-based mortar). The lake is fed by snowmelt from the surrounding highlands and by seasonal rainfall, and in the past it was used to irrigate rice paddies and supply water to nearby villages. In the middle of the lake stands a beautiful chahartaqi (a four-arched structure), whose roof, covered with plants, gives the setting a special charm. The vegetation around Abbas Abad Lake includes dense broadleaf forests, oak, hornbeam, beech and maple trees, and forest shrubland, which together present an unrivalled picture of the nature of northern Iran. Thanks to its mild climate and unspoiled scenery, the area is always popular with tourists, nature lovers and photographers. Suitable facilities have been provided around the lake, including walking trails, a viewing platform, boating and numerous gazebos, creating a pleasant space for families to relax and enjoy themselves.

Abbas Abad Lake is reached via Abbas Abad Road, off Imam Reza Boulevard in Behshahr. The best times to visit Abbas Abad Lake in Behshahr are spring and autumn, when nature is at its most beautiful and the weather is very pleasant and mild. In spring, blossoms and the fresh green of the trees lend the historic complex a special charm, and in autumn the colourful leaves create a dreamlike landscape. In summer, despite the warmer weather, the shade of the trees and the chance to go boating in the cool air by the lake can offer visitors enjoyable and memorable moments. To protect the environment and show respect for this cultural heritage, please do not leave litter or damage the historic structures, and stay on the marked paths during your visit.