Yakhchal Peak

Yakhchal Peak, also called Yakhchal-e Saheb or Yakhchal-e Saheb al-Zaman Peak, is one of the best-known peaks in the Alvand mountains. At 3,580 metres, it is the second-highest peak in Hamadan Province. It is called Yakhchal ("glacier" or "ice pit") because the snow on the peak melts very late in the season. The first snowfall of autumn turns the mountain white, and even in summer the air here is very cold. Most of the water flowing into the Ekbatan Dam in Hamadan comes from this peak.

There are four routes to the summit: the Morad Beyg Valley route, the Takht-e Rostam route, the Sarkan route and the Tarik Darreh route. The usual approach is through the Morad Beyg Valley, southwest of the city of Hamadan. The peak lies in the southern part of the Alvand range in Hamadan. Many climbers travel to Hamadan Province to climb it. In winter, Yakhchal Peak is cold and stormy, and below the summit, crossing along its famous snow cornice is dangerous because of avalanches. The best time to climb Yakhchal Peak is late Ordibehesht (mid-May).

The Yakhchal Peak shelter was built in 1383 (2004) on the climbing route from the southwest of Hamadan (Morad Beyg Valley). It stands at an altitude of 3,206 metres. Also known as the Saheb al-Zaman Yakhchal Shelter, it is well equipped to meet the needs of climbers and nature lovers. The shelter is very well prepared for accommodating climbers all year round: in the cold seasons it can sleep 50 people, and in the warm seasons up to 80. Outside the shelter, three stone-paved platforms provide space for resting and pitching tents, and offer a beautiful view of the city of Hamadan.