Kola Forest

Kola Forest lies east of the village of Paeen Kola in Sari County, Mazandaran Province, and is part of the valuable Hyrcanian forests of northern Iran. With its green landscapes, ancient trees and peaceful surroundings, it is a great destination for nature lovers, forest hikers and nature photographers. Kola Forest extends to the forests south of Neka and Behshahr counties, and this continuity doubles its environmental importance. Its pristine setting, soothing silence and diverse vegetation make it an ideal place to find peace in the heart of nature.

Kola Forest has long played an important role in the nature of the region. In past years, parts of the forest were harvested in accordance with natural resources regulations and then restored and regenerated, while other sections have been preserved in their natural state. Valuable tree species such as beech, hornbeam, Persian ironwood (Anjili), oak, maple, zelkova (Azad), alder, plane, elm, Caucasian elm (Melch), hawthorn and wild medlar grow here, creating remarkable plant diversity. In the past the forest was used by the Galesh herders and for grazing local livestock, and many of its areas are still known among local people by the names of old pastures, which reflects the cultural and historical background of the area.

To reach Kola Forest, first travel to the city of Sari and then on to the village of Paeen Kola. Good roads make the area accessible to visitors, and once you reach the village, forest tracks lead you to the different parts of the woodland. The best time to visit Kola Forest is spring and early autumn, when the pleasant weather, the lush greenery and the varied colors of nature show the area at its most beautiful. While visiting, you can help protect this valuable natural heritage by not lighting fires in unauthorized places, not leaving litter, not damaging the vegetation and keeping the surroundings quiet.