Shalu and Mangasht Protected Area

The Shalu and Mangasht Protected Area covers approximately 13,000 hectares in Izeh County, Khuzestan Province, and was declared a protected area in 1378 (1999). Most of the area is mountainous and receives heavy snowfall, with elevations ranging from 780 to 3,618 meters above sea level. The average annual temperature is 14 to 16 degrees Celsius and annual precipitation is 800 to 1,000 millimeters, producing a semi-humid climate below 1,000 meters and a temperate to cold humid climate above 2,000 meters.

Thanks to its particular geographic location and varied elevations, the Shalu and Mangasht Protected Area has rich and diverse flora and fauna. This biodiversity has made it one of the important habitats in Khuzestan Province. The most important and dominant vegetation is the Persian oak forest. Besides trees, the area has a wide variety of herbaceous plants and shrubs, including medicinal, edible and forage species. These include milkvetch (goon), tragacanth (katira), chavil, jashir, kelus, fragrant myrtle, thyme, pennyroyal and several bulbous species. The animals of the area include the Persian squirrel, chukar partridge, many kinds of birds, the brown bear and the leopard.

The best time to visit the Shalu and Mangasht Protected Area is generally spring and early autumn. At these times the weather is very pleasant and the landscape is at its most beautiful. The waterfalls and rivers also carry more water than usual, creating stunning scenery. The Shivand Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Khuzestan Province, is located in this area. Visiting it and enjoying the sound and coolness of the water is a delightful experience. There are also other small, seasonal waterfalls in the area. If you follow the relevant rules and regulations and obtain the necessary permits, you can camp in the designated areas and enjoy a night in the heart of nature.