Chaldareh Forest Park

Chaldareh Forest Park is one of the most beautiful natural attractions of Tonekabon County in western Mazandaran Province, located 18 kilometres from the city of Tonekabon. The park lies at the confluence of the Dohezar and Sehezar rivers and covers roughly 94 to 110 hectares, making it one of the most popular nature-tourism destinations in northern Iran. Chaldareh is a lush, wooded valley at an elevation of about 400 to 500 metres above sea level. Thanks to its setting among mountains, rushing rivers and Hyrcanian forests, it enjoys a cool, humid and pleasant climate. Tall trees, moss-covered rocks, full-flowing rivers and the soothing silence of the forest have made this area one of the most valuable natural attractions of Tonekabon.

The vegetation of Chaldareh includes a variety of Hyrcanian forest species such as alder, maple, Caucasian wingnut (lerg), oak, Persian ironwood (anjili), ferns and medicinal plants. Along the riverbanks and forested slopes, they create an almost unrivalled landscape. The area is also home to valuable animal species such as red deer (maral), roe deer (shuka), wild boar, jackal, jungle cat, leopard, pheasant, woodpecker and various coldwater fish. Good facilities, including forest gazebos, walking trails, a cycling route, a restaurant, a café, accommodation cabins and recreation areas, make Chaldareh not only a nature-tourism destination but also a good place for families to stay and spend their leisure time. The wooden bridges over the rivers and the natural forest views are among the most popular spots in the complex for photography and strolling.

To reach Chaldareh Forest Park, first travel to the city of Tonekabon and then take the scenic Dohezar Road. The park lies beside the road, about 18 kilometres from the city, and the route is fully paved and suitable for private cars. The best time to visit Chaldareh is spring or autumn, when the forest is at its greenest or in its autumn colours and the weather is very pleasant. While visiting this precious forest, it is essential to follow the principles of responsible nature tourism: do not leave litter, do not light fires in unauthorised places, do not damage the vegetation and respect the area's wildlife, so that this valuable ecosystem is preserved for future generations.