Tashbandan Forest Park

Tashbandan Forest Park is one of the most important natural attractions of Mahmudabad County in Mazandaran Province. It lies about 16 kilometres from the city centre, within Ahlam Rostaq-e Jonubi Rural District. Set in the heart of the Hyrcanian forests, the park covers more than 45,000 square metres and is regarded as one of the region's notable natural areas. Tashbandan consists of several sections, including Kijavazan, Aghashahr, Ghaleh Jangal Baoudeh and Vazonreh, and offers visitors a mix of forest scenery, natural trails and open spaces.

One of the park's most important features is the diversity of its plant species. Trees such as hornbeam, maple, alder, elm, ash and Caucasian wingnut (lerg) are found here in abundance and form a dense, lush forest. The park is also recognised as a protected area, and efforts have been made to preserve its remaining sections, although in some places forest areas have shrunk because of land-use change. Suitable trails, open spaces and facilities such as restrooms make the park a good place for leisure time, picnics and family outings.

To reach Tashbandan Forest Park, travel from Mahmudabad towards the southern areas and Ahlam Rural District. The access road is paved up to the vicinity of the park and is easy to drive. The best time to visit is spring, when the vegetation is at its freshest and greenest, though the park has its own charm in other seasons too. Given the importance of this natural area, responsible nature tourism is essential to the sustainability of this ecosystem: collect your litter, avoid damaging the trees and keep the environment peaceful.