Vayqan Waterfall

Vayqan Waterfall is one of the natural attractions of East Azerbaijan Province in northwestern Iran. It is located in Khoda Afarin County, near the village of Vayqan-e Moqaddas (Vayan), in the heart of the Arasbaran (Qaradagh) forests. The village lies about 50 km northwest of Kaleybar and 17 km from the Aras River. With a population of around 89 people in 33 households (2016 census), it is one of the smallest yet most beautiful villages in the region. Vayqan-e Moqaddas was once one of the most populous villages in the area, a cradle of learning and literature with warm and kind-hearted people. Its neighbouring villages include Aynalu, Balan, Behruz, Shabkhaneh, Kalaleh-ye Olya, Garmnab and Abbasabad. In the local dialect the village's name is also pronounced "Vayan", and thanks to the unspoiled nature around it, the waterfall has become a popular destination for nature-loving travellers.

Vayqan Waterfall lies below the village and has three tiers, each offering a different view of the flowing water and the green surroundings. There are two well-known routes to reach the waterfall. The first starts from the village of Barzeyar and is passable by mule. The second runs from the lower end of the village towards Yeyli-su, or Qarnikh Darehsi, and takes about one hour of easy to moderate walking. The area around the waterfall, with its Arasbaran forests and varied vegetation, offers good opportunities for hiking, light forest trekking, landscape photography and general exploring for nature lovers.

To visit Vayqan Waterfall, travellers first go to Khoda Afarin County, then head towards the village of Vayqan-e Moqaddas (Vayan), where the access routes to the waterfall begin. The best time to visit is spring and early summer, when the water flow is stronger and the vegetation of the area is at its most beautiful. Practising responsible nature tourism, such as staying on marked paths, carrying out your litter and respecting the environment, is important for preserving this natural attraction.