Sefidrud Dam Lake

Sefidrud Dam, also known as Manjil Dam, is located in Rudbar County in Gilan Province, next to the city of Manjil. Built on the Sefidrud River at the confluence of the Qezel Owzan and Shahrud rivers, it is one of the oldest dams in Iran. Construction began in 1331 (1952) and was completed in 1341 (1962). Sefidrud Dam plays a key role in supplying irrigation water to the plains of Gilan, generating hydroelectric power and controlling floods. It stands near Manjil, a famously windy city, in one of the beautiful mountainous areas of northern Iran.

The lake behind the dam spreads out among the surrounding mountains and hills, creating a captivating, tranquil view that draws many visitors. Its proximity to the huge turbines of the Manjil Wind Farm also creates a unique scene in which nature and technology coexist. The vegetation around the lake is a mix of Mediterranean and Caspian species. Native trees include olive, oak, maple, alder, boxwood, blackberry and wild cherry plum. This rich plant diversity has created a dynamic habitat for animals such as the Caspian white fish (kutum), carp, barbel, mallard, ducks, herons, and mammals such as jackals, foxes and wildcats. The river and the dam lake are also an important habitat for commercially valuable and migratory fish of northern Iran, and are of great importance for fisheries.

The easiest way to reach Sefidrud Dam (Manjil) is via the Qazvin–Rasht road. After taking the Qazvin–Rasht freeway and reaching the city of Manjil, a few minutes' drive south towards Rudbar brings you to the dam and its lake. Local parks around the dam offer visitors beautiful views of the lake. Nature lovers can enjoy boating, photographing the mountain scenery and visiting the surrounding villages. The best time to visit is from spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscape is green. In this area, practising responsible nature tourism, including avoiding pollution and protecting water and wildlife resources, is essential.