Sarab Yavari

Sarab Yavari is one of the natural limestone springs (sarab) of Kermanshah Province. It lies about 21 kilometres northwest of the city of Kermanshah, in the Miandarband area, on the Kermanshah–Ravansar road, near the village of Yavari. It is regarded as a natural freshwater lake and has long been a popular recreation spot for the people of Kermanshah and the surrounding areas. In wetter periods Sarab Yavari has had a considerable water discharge, and before the droughts of the late 2000s (late 1380s in the Solar Hijri calendar), its maximum discharge was reported at 320 cubic metres per second. Its location on the Kermanshah to Ravansar road and its natural scenery have made it one of the region's natural attractions.

Besides its natural importance, Sarab Yavari once played a significant role in the life and activities of the region. An irrigation canal about four kilometres long ran from the spring and was used to irrigate about 400 hectares of the area's farmland. In the warm seasons the spring was also used for swimming by people from neighbouring areas, and it was known as one of the old recreation spots of the people of Kermanshah. In recent years, drought and a decline in the spring's discharge have caused it to dry up periodically. However, after the spring rains of 1403 (Solar Hijri), the sarab was revived and returned to a good condition. According to available information, in 1404 too, water transfers and measures taken to restore the sarab improved the state of its water surface, and trees were planted along its edges. Native trees and shrubs such as hawthorn, wild pistachio (bane) and oak are among the species planted around the sarab. Because the water level fluctuates so sharply, conditions at the sarab may vary from one period to another.

To reach Sarab Yavari, drive from the city of Kermanshah along the Kermanshah to Ravansar road and, after about 21 kilometres, you will arrive in the area of Yavari village. Spring, and the period after good rainfall, is the best time to visit the sarab and enjoy the surrounding nature, since in recent years the amount of water in the sarab has depended heavily on precipitation. When visiting, do not leave litter around the sarab, and take care not to damage the vegetation or the natural environment. As the area is reported to have no rubbish bins or toilet facilities, visitors should take their waste back with them and avoid polluting the water and the surroundings. Following these principles can help preserve the nature of Sarab Yavari and keep this natural recreation area available to visitors.