Shahid Kazemi Dam Lake (Bukan)

Shahid Kazemi Dam, better known as Bukan Dam, is located 35 kilometres southeast of the city of Bukan in West Azerbaijan Province. This clay-core earthfill dam was built on the Zarrineh Rud River. With a height of 50 metres and a crest length of 530 metres, it is considered one of the largest dams in Iran. After an increase in 2005 (1384 in the Solar Hijri calendar), its reservoir capacity reached 762 million cubic metres. The dam plays a vital role in supplying drinking and agricultural water to the cities of Bukan, Miandoab and Tabriz, and it also irrigates more than 55,000 hectares of farmland each year in the counties of Ajabshir and Azarshahr.

With its beautiful natural scenery and pleasant climate, the lake behind the dam has become one of the region's popular tourist destinations. The lake is surrounded by orchards, lush green trees and the banks of the Zarrineh Rud River, creating a delightful setting for visitors. The area is also a good place for birdwatching, and species such as the black tern can be seen here.

To reach Bukan Dam Lake, you can take the roads leading to the southeast of the city of Bukan. The best time to visit is spring and summer, when the nature around the lake is at its most beautiful. When visiting the area, it is essential to follow the principles of responsible nature tourism, including collecting your litter and avoiding any damage to the local plants and wildlife.