Fashtam Marsh

Fashtam Marsh is a valuable natural seasonal water body near the city of Rasht in Gilan Province. It lies within the area of Fashtam village, along the Saravan road toward the Combined Cycle Power Plant road. The marsh has formed in a low-lying plain and, as part of the wetland ecosystems of northern Iran, plays an important role in preserving the region's biodiversity. The water body covers about 18 hectares and has an elongated shape running east–west, which, together with the surrounding forest cover, creates a unique natural landscape.

The marsh is seasonal: it fills to its maximum in autumn and winter, when its surface is completely covered with water. During this period, the reflection of the yellow and orange colors of the surrounding vegetation gives the scenery a striking look. In spring and summer, as the water level drops, the marsh bed becomes covered with a dense growth of water lilies. The combination of green vegetation and the pink lily flowers creates one of the most beautiful wetland views in the region. Beyond its natural value, this habitat is home to small birds, wetland insects and species that depend on moist habitats, which adds to its ecological dynamism.

You can reach Fashtam Marsh by taking the main Rasht–Qazvin road and then entering the area of Fashtam village. It is very close to Rasht, about 20 minutes away. The best time to visit is from mid-spring to mid-summer, when the water lilies are in full bloom. Responsible nature tourism is essential here: do not enter the wetland bed, avoid damaging the lily vegetation, and keep the habitat quiet and undisturbed for the birds and animals that depend on this sensitive ecosystem.