Barar Village

Barar is a summer highland and tourist village in Mazandaran Province. It lies in Birunbesham Rural District, Marzanabad District, Chalus County, at an altitude of about 1,000 metres above sea level in the northern heights of the Central Alborz. The village is about 28 kilometres southwest of the city of Chalus and about 5 kilometres from the town of Marzanabad, and its lands are surrounded by forest to the south and west. With its springs, river, mountains, forest and cave, Barar is considered one of the most notable natural areas around Marzanabad, and the Barar River flows to the south of the village. According to the 2016 census (1395 in the Solar Hijri calendar), the village had a population of 164. The people of Barar speak Tabari with the Kelarestaqi dialect, and farming, orchard keeping and animal husbandry are their main activities; wheat, barley, walnuts, apples, cherries, sour cherries and mulberries are also among the products of the area.

One of Barar's most remarkable natural features is the turquoise Marzanabad River, which runs through the forests around the village. With its clear, cool water, natural pools, rocks and small waterfalls, it is an attractive destination for nature lovers. The river route from the start of the village to the natural pools is reported to be about 2 to 3 kilometres, and parts of it are suitable for walking and exploring. Barar Forest and Barar Cave are other natural attractions of the area. The route to the cave follows the river, and along the way you need to cross the river several times and make your way along a mountain trail. Barar Cave is not very large, but the way to reach it, with its river crossings, steep sections and natural scenery, makes for a different experience for those who enjoy caving and nature tourism. The springs, river, forest and mountains around the village, together with the local breads and sweets, also add to Barar's appeal for visitors.

To reach Barar, take the Chalus road towards Marzanabad and then join the Abbasabad–Kelardasht road. Once you arrive in the village, continue along the internal roads towards the river and the turquoise river area. Spring and summer are the best seasons to enjoy the lush forest, cool air and the river, while autumn offers a different landscape as the forest cover changes colour. When visiting Barar, especially the riverbanks and the forest, avoid leaving litter, damaging vegetation or polluting the water.