Aghesht Village

Aghesht is one of the most beautiful summer pasture villages in Alborz Province. It lies in Borghan Rural District, Chandar District, Savojbolagh County. Only a short distance from Karaj and Tehran, the village has become a popular tourist destination thanks to its cool climate, lush greenery, permanent rivers and fruit orchards. With a population of about 770, Aghesht is a peaceful, pleasant place, and the stone-paved architecture of parts of the village, together with the mountain views, creates a delightful setting for visitors.

The village's main attraction is Aghesht Castle, also known as the "Hogwarts Castle of Iran". It was built inspired by the architecture of European castles and has a striking appearance. Contrary to what many visitors assume, the building is not historical; it was built in recent years as a private villa. It is therefore not possible to visit the interior, and you can only view its exterior. Other sights in the village include the Sharsharband Waterfall, about 35 metres high, the Aghesht River, fruit orchards, abundant springs, a historic bathhouse, the Imamzadeh Fatemeh Khatun (Bibi Qezlar) shrine, and local traditions such as the ceremony of the village elders. Together with the mountain scenery, these shape the cultural and tourist identity of the village.

To reach Aghesht, you can take the route from Karaj via the Atashgah road to Borghan and then Aghesht, or use the Karaj–Qazvin Freeway, take the Kordan exit and follow the Borghan road. The best time to visit is from mid-spring to early autumn, especially Ordibehesht, Khordad and autumn, when the landscape is at its most beautiful. While visiting, please help preserve this valuable tourist destination: do not leave litter, do not damage the orchards and trees, respect the privacy of private property, especially Aghesht Castle, and keep the village peaceful.