Alisadr Cave, the hidden jewel of Iran, is the longest cave in the world to be traversed by water. It is a silent symphony of limestone and light hidden beneath Hamedan’s hills. Ali Sadr Cave in Hamedan, this geological wonder has become famous for its yearly 400,000 visitors who float through its channels covered with glass and next to dripping stalactites.
Alisadr Cave Hamedan, presents not only the prehistoric mystery but also the beauty of nature, characterized by the gentle offering of boat rides that seem like time travel through the very heart of ancient Earth.
Alisadr Cave History
The Ali Sadr Cave history dates back 190 million years. The Jurassic period saw the sea covering this area and laying down layers of limestone, which became very thick. Over
thousands of years, the rainwater that had taken in carbon dioxide became
acidic and at the same time created the underground passages.
The first human remains—ceramics and bone tools—have been discovered, dating from 12,000 years ago. The inhabitants of the Achaemenid dynasty (550-330B.C.E.) probably
considered the entrance as a place for water cults; there are even faint Sasanian carvings that hint at Mithraic worship.
For centuries, it stayed hidden but was uncovered by shepherds in the sixties. The place was explored starting in 1963 and by 1973, a survey was able to draw a map of the 2.5-km
route taken by tourists.
In 2001, with the help of modern sonar, it was found that the total length of the cave was 11.44 km. In 2008, Alisadr Cave was declared the 23rd natural monument of Iran and it still preserves corals, shells, and marine fossils—proof of an ocean that once existed and has
now gone.
Exploring Inside Ali Sadr Cave
At the entrance of Alisadr Cave, tourists are provided with life vests, and then they are allowed to board flat wooden boats. The cave’s temperature remains constant at 16°C with around 90% humidity; the transparency of the water allows one to see the bottom, which is at a depth of 3–14 m. LED spotlights shine up to the ceilings that are covered with stalactites and look like chandeliers, which are from 10 to 20 m high. Stalagmites rise as silent sentinels; the tour guides mention the formations’ names—”Eagle’s Wing”, “Lion’s Paw”, “Medusa’s Head,” etc.
The journey, taking 45–60 minutes, covers 2.4 km by boat and walking 100 m on dry walkways. The sound of dripping water is heard, and rare cave pearls are sparkling. Bats are flying just above the heads of the visitors. Flash-free photography is used to keep the pristine glow—there is no graffiti on the walls and thus the walls are not marred.
Ali-Sadr Cave Length
The mapped Ali-Sadr Cave length totals 11.44 kilometers, of which 4 kilometers are accessible for visitors. The usual 2.5-km circuit is done effortlessly by paddleboat. Special permits enable exploration into non-mapped branches; sonar assessments suggest more than 15 km, indicating future revelations.
Make your arrival stress-free by booking a trusted Iran airport transfer in advance.
Ali Sadr Cave Location
The Ali Sadr Cave location lies 75 km northwest of Hamedan city in Ali Sadr village, Kabudarahang County. It tops the foothills of Zagros at 1,950 m elevation (35°28°18’N 48°18’E). From Hamedan, a 90-minute ride goes past olive orchards and walnut groves through the Tehran highway.
The Saveh-Hamedan expressway takes visitors to Tehran, a journey of 300km and within four hours. The site is framed with spring poppies and autumn foliage. Buses operate every hour on the Hamedan terminal; cabs are available right on the spot. The combination of Ganjnameh rock reliefs and Lalejin pottery villages makes the Ali Sadr Cave location an ideal tourist spot in cultural circuits.
After discovering the beauty of Alisadr Cave, you might want to head south and explore Kish Island a tropical paradise offering a completely different side of Iran.
Visitor Information
Alisadr Cave operates between 8 AM and 5 PM in spring/summer and 8 AM to 3 PM in autumn/winter and on Fridays and during Nowruz (March 2020April 2); it is better to arrive before 9AM. The ticket price is 150, 000 IRR (~$3 USD) to Iranians and 10-15 USD to foreigners which includes life jackets with English guides offered at an additional 200,000 IRR per group.
Children under 5 enter free. Tourists are expected to wear in layers with strong shoes. The weather varies with 15-25 C in the spring when it is warm; summer suits warm-weather
fans; autumn offers beautiful foliage, and in the winter snow-ready vehicles
are required.
Cafeterias and hotels are available locally and the hotels or eco-cabins are nearby. Come and visit Ali Sadr Cave, Hamedan with Irun2Iran. We provide package tours of adventures,
including transportation, entry, guiding and meals.
Take part in our guided tours to Alisadr cave, providing you a nice visit with a deeper understanding of the cave’s history and geological structure.Create lasting memories while exploring ancient Persia through our Iran Budget Tours.
Last word
Alisadr Cave is a truly unique and awe-inspiring destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the natural wonders of Iran. With its stunning rock formations, crystal-clear water, and unique boat rides, Alisadr Cave is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hamedan. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, Alisadr Cave is sure to impress. So if you’re planning a trip to Iran, be sure to add Alisadr Cave to your itinerary and discover the beauty and wonder of this ancient natural wonder for yourself. If this destination is now on your bucket list, don’t forget to check out the Iran visa application process.
With our Iran Tour Packages, you’ll walk through ancient bazaars, marvel at majestic mosques, and uncover the timeless beauty of Iran.
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