Cham Gerdelan Dam Lake

Cham Gerdelan Dam Lake (Ilam Dam) is located in Malekshahi County, Ilam Province, about 18 kilometres from the county centre. The dam lies downstream of the confluence of the Aftab and Chaviz rivers and supplies drinking water to the city of Ilam. The area around the lake, with its oak trees, green hills and the beautiful Vizhdaron and Shah-Nakhjir heights, creates an unrivalled landscape.

With an area of 255 hectares, Cham Gerdelan Dam Lake is known as one of the rarest reservoir lakes in Iran to be surrounded by oak forests. This feature has made it a popular destination for nature lovers and picnickers in spring and summer. The mild, mountain climate of the area, together with its diverse vegetation, offers visitors a delightful experience of the unspoiled nature of the Zagros.

To reach the lake, take the Darreh Shahr road from Ilam and, after about 27 kilometres, you will reach the side road to Cham Gerdelan Dam. The road is paved and suitable for passenger cars. The best time to visit the lake is spring and summer, when the landscape is at its most beautiful. While visiting, please practise responsible nature tourism and respect the environment.