MULTI-DAY TREKS

Alam Kuh, the second highest peak in Iran at 4,850 meters (15,912 feet), is an adventurer's paradise. Located in the Alborz Mountain Range, it attracts climbers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world. This majestic peak, often referred to as the "Iranian Alps," offers a plethora of routes, each with its own unique charm and challenges. This article will guide you through the various approaches to Alam Kuh, including Tange Galoo, Hesarchal, Sarchal, the famous Alam Kuh Wall, and approaches through Alamut Valley, Taleghan Valley, Delir, and Elite. We'll also discuss the Lashkarak summit as an acclimatization option.

Caspian Trek has been organizing treks and climbing in the Alam Kuh region since 2008. Vandarbon is a mere 90-minute drive from Khoonegeli, our base. If you are looking to delve into some of the best 4000 meter summits of Iran, then Caspian Trek is your first choice for the adventure.

Tange Galoo: The Gateway to Alam Kuh

Tange Galoo is one of the most popular starting points for those aiming to summit Alam Kuh. This approach offers stunning scenery and a well-trodden path, making it accessible for experienced trekkers. The route passes through lush valleys and alpine meadows, providing a gradual ascent ideal for acclimatization. The dirt road from Vandarbon where the Iranian Mountaineering Federation has a base is usually undertaken by 4WD vehicles; the road passes rivers and is closed in winter months due to heavy snow.

Hesarchal: A High-Altitude Meadow

Hesarchal is a beautiful high-altitude meadow that serves as a base camp for many climbers. Situated at around 3,800 meters, it is an excellent spot to acclimatize before making the final push to the summit. The area is surrounded by towering peaks and is often dotted with colorful tents during the climbing season. The hike from Tange Galoo to Hesarchal usually takes about two hours.

Sarchal: The Climber's Base

Sarchal, located at approximately 4,200 meters, is another popular base camp for Alam Kuh expeditions. This camp is strategically positioned close to the Alam Kuh Wall, making it a preferred spot for those attempting the technical ascent. The camp provides a fantastic vantage point for observing the imposing north face of Alam Kuh. The trek from Sarchal to Alamchal and the foot of the wall usually takes less than two hours.

 Alam Kuh Wall: The Technical Challenge

The north face of Alam Kuh, commonly known as the Alam Kuh Wall, is a formidable challenge for climbers. Rising nearly 800 meters, the wall features a variety of technical routes that attract climbers seeking a serious challenge. The granite wall offers routes ranging from moderate to extremely difficult, requiring advanced climbing skills and experience.

Approaches to Alam Kuh

Alamut Valley Approach

The Alamut Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance, offers a picturesque route to Alam Kuh. This approach is less crowded and takes you through the heart of one of Iran's most beautiful valleys. The trail passes by ancient castles and lush valleys, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.

Taleghan Valley Approach

The Taleghan Valley approach is another scenic route to Alam Kuh. This valley, known for its pristine nature and traditional villages, offers a tranquil path to the mountain. The approach provides ample opportunities to interact with local villagers and experience the traditional Persian way of life.

Delir and Elite and Sehezar Valley Approaches

For those seeking solitude and adventure, the Delir and Elite approach and also the Sehezar Valley offer a less travelled path to Alam Kuh. These routes are more challenging and require navigational skills, but they reward trekkers with untouched landscapes and a sense of true wilderness.

Sehezar Valley Approach. Probably the least explored approach by any Iranians or foreigners alike. This valley is right adjacent to the valley where Khoonegeli is located. If you are looking for an

Lashkarak Summit: Acclimatization and More

Lashkarak summit, standing at 4,230 meters, is an excellent acclimatization climb for those planning to summit Alam Kuh. The ascent of Lashkarak offers a perfect training ground from Hesarchal basecamp. The summit provides stunning views of the Alam Massiff and helps prepare climbers for the higher altitude of Alam Kuh.

Embark on an unforgettable multi-day trek through the stunning Zagros Mountains, deep into the heart of Bakhtiyari nomad territory. This unique adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic nomadic culture of the Bakhtiyaris, a community whose traditional way of life is rapidly transforming. With pristine glacial lakes, ancient lion stone cemeteries, and untouched landscapes, this trek promises a journey through time and nature that few have experienced.

The Zagros Mountains, known for their rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems, are home to the Bakhtiyari nomads, one of Iran's most storied ethnic groups. The Bakhtiyaris have traditionally migrated on foot, herding their livestock across vast distances. However, this way of life is fast disappearing, with many nomads now settled in cities and villages. Today, only a few hundred Bakhtiyari families continue to migrate, making this trek a rare and precious opportunity to witness their enduring traditions.

The best seasons for this trek are April and October, when the weather is ideal for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Zagros Mountains. During your journey, you'll cross white-water rivers on traditional "T-rolls" and experience the absolute wilderness of this remote region. The pristine glacial lakes, shimmering under the mountain sun, provide serene spots for reflection and rest.

As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll come across ancient lion stone cemeteries, a testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage. These cemeteries, with their intricately carved stone lions, offer a glimpse into the spiritual world of the Bakhtiyaris and their ancestors.

The trek through Bakhtiyari territory is not just about the landscapes and history; it's about the people. You'll have the chance to meet Bakhtiyari families, learn about their daily lives, and experience their hospitality. The nomads' tents, woven from goat hair, provide a stark contrast to the modern world, reminding us of a simpler, more connected way of life.

Throughout the trek, you'll be accompanied by experienced guides who are intimately familiar with the region. They will ensure your safety, provide insights into the local culture, and help you navigate the challenging terrain. The logistical support includes all necessary permits, camping gear, and provisions, allowing you to focus on the adventure.

This multi-day Zagros trek offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. It's an adventure that promises not only to challenge your physical limits but also to enrich your understanding of one of Iran's most fascinating cultures. Whether you're crossing rivers on a T-roll, exploring ancient cemeteries, or sharing stories with Bakhtiyari nomads, this trek will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

 

Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience the untouched culture of the Bakhtiyaris. Join us for an adventure deep into the Zagros Mountains, where every step is a journey into the heart of nature and history. Book your trek today and discover the magic of the Bakhtiyari nomads before it disappears forever!

Embark on an incredible 10-day mega trek through the least trodden paths of the Alborz Mountains with Caspian Trek. Your adventure begins in Tehran, from where you will travel to the ancient Taleghan Valley, situated to the west of the city. This valley, inhabited for millennia, is home to some of the most distinguished and influential people of Iranian society, including the late Maryam Mirzakhani, the only woman to have received the Fields Medal in mathematics. Spend the day exploring interesting corners of the valley, visiting waterfalls, historic houses, and meeting influential locals. The night is spent in a privately rented home at an altitude of approximately 1850m.

After breakfast, a short drive takes you to the start of the trail where muleteers await. With mules carrying up to 10 kg of your personal gear and all necessary equipment for the trek provided, you begin your ascent. Anything not needed for the trek is stored and will be returned at your final home-stay in Khoonegeli. The first camping spot is at approximately 3500m.

The next day, summit Shah Alborz, literally meaning the King of Alborz, at 4220m. Enjoy the spectacular panorama, including the Alamkooh Massif to the northeast and other 4000m summits all around. Descend to a shepherd’s dwelling to spend the night.

Continue your journey after breakfast, reaching a saddle at 3800m. Camp in the middle of “nowhere,” embracing the remote wilderness of the Alborz Mountains. On the following day, trek to the furthest village in the Alamut Valley, inhabited by a few shepherds in the summer months. This village, without road or electricity, offers a glimpse into the most authentic and remote parts of the Alamut Valley.

Another day of walking brings you to Piche Bon, at 2700m above sea level, the highest village in the Alamut Valley. Rest and re-supply here for the second part of your trek, spending the night in a local’s home. The next day, pass the Salambar Caravansary and saddle at 3200m, entering untouched Hyrcanian forests on the north-western side of the ridge. The saddle separates the southern and northern Alborz Mountain climatic zones and often presents a windy and cold environment, creating a surreal scene when Caspian fog reaches the southern portion. Camp in nature for the night.

The trek continues through the forest to a summer settlement of local cowboys, who only come to their summer homes during the grazing season. Spend the night in a basic but authentic house, with washrooms outside and sleeping on the floor.

After four more hours of hiking through the forest, descending from 2200m to 900m, reach a tarmac road where you are picked up and driven to Khoonegeli lodge, some 40 minutes away. Here, enjoy a shower and relax in the large orange orchard, with good coffee and cold drinks awaiting you.

If the sea conditions are favourable, embark on a boat ride in the Caspian Sea and, if the weather permits, take a refreshing swim in its inviting waters. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional potters or exploring the bustling local fish market. There are numerous other options to enhance your cultural experience after this incredible trek, such as visiting a traditional textile workshop or discovering other local artisanal crafts. These activities offer a perfect complement to your trekking adventure, providing a deeper understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage.

Caspian Trek has been organizing multi-day treks in the Alborz Mountains since 2008, offering unparalleled experiences in this remote wilderness. Our treks take you through the stunning Taleghan Valley, across the Alborz Mountain range, and deep into the heart of the Alamut Valley. With comprehensive logistical support, including muleteers and all necessary equipment, Caspian Trek ensures an authentic and immersive trekking adventure. Discover the pristine beauty and rich history of the Alborz Mountains with us, and embark on a journey that promises to be both challenging and deeply rewarding.

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- Wilderness adventure in Iran

Explore the Alamut Valley, a historical region nestled on the western edge of the mighty Alborz Range, home to over 160 castles and ruins of the Ismailites. The most famous of these is the Alamut Castle in Gazorkhan, while the summer residence of Hassan-i Sabbah was the Navizar Castle in upper Garmarood.

Some of the most spectacular treks in the Alamut Valley cross the western Alborz Mountains, ending on the Caspian Sea side. Villages such as Piche Bon, Dineh Rood, Garmarood, and Avater stand as testimonies to the locals' ancient journeys across this land, searching for work, trade, or reuniting with divided families. These inhabitants often met and fell in love with their neighbors in Mazandaran, creating a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.

Further west in the Alamut Valley, starting from Lake Ovan (also spelled Evan), an alpine lake near Evan, Zarabad, Varbon, and Zavardasht villages, a path heads northwards. Depending on the ridge you take, you can hike directly to one of northern Iran's great valleys, such as Eshkevarat, or reach the majestic Khashechal summit.

Caspian Trek has been organizing multi-day treks with great variations in this region of the Western Alborz since 2008. We work closely with local muleteers and villagers to provide an authentic Alamut experience, whether you wish to hike for a day or two or undertake a complete traverse of the western Alborz from Ovan to Ramsar or Tonekabon. This trek is best undertaken from mid-May until late October and remains one of the best-kept secrets of the Western Alborz.

 

For the ultimate adventure, consider a grand 15-day trek starting in the Alamut Valley. After years of hiking these mountains, Farzin Malaki, the owner of Caspian Trek, has explored and designed a route that is the longest in this region without touching tarmac. This wild and remote trek is likely the most adventurous you may undertake. Success in this mega trek relies on loyal muleteers to carry food and logistics, as there are no amenities once you set off until you reach your final point. This pristine and untouched journey through nature is why so many foreign travellers have fallen in love with this part of the world, returning time and again for trekking.