Khanikan Forest Park

Khanikan Forest Park, better known as Nirang Forest, is one of the natural attractions of Nowshahr County in Mazandaran Province. It lies near the village of Kooshksara, close to the Nirang road. The park is about 5 kilometres south of Nowshahr and, thanks to its varied landscapes, Hyrcanian forest cover and unspoiled nature, it is a popular nature-tourism destination in the region. With its dense trees, forest trails and the striking change in the colours of nature in autumn, Khanikan Forest shows a different side of the forests of northern Iran, which is why it has become known among travellers as "Nirang Forest".

The vegetation of this area includes species such as hornbeam, Persian ironwood (Anjili), primrose and violet, which give the forest a different look in every season. Anjili trees with their colourful autumn leaves and the spreading hornbeams are among the most important natural features of Khanikan Forest. Besides its forest scenery, the area lies near attractions such as Dar Gorge, the Karkarud River and Kooshksara village. The Dar Gorge canyoning route, about 1,600 metres long, runs through a narrow valley and finally reaches the Khanikan forest area. Parts of the forest are also suitable for camping, although because of the slope of the terrain and local conditions, it is advisable to coordinate with the forest rangers before staying overnight.

To reach Khanikan Forest Park, head south from Nowshahr and, after reaching the village of Nirang, continue for about 15 kilometres until you enter the forest area. The park can also be reached via the Chalus road and the Kooshksara road. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the forest: spring with its blossoms and forest wildflowers, and autumn with the varied colours of the trees, create an unrivalled scene, while summer is warmer because of the humid, muggy air. When visiting the area, it is very important to practise responsible nature tourism, keep the environment clean, avoid damaging the vegetation and observe safety rules on the river-trekking routes.