Damavand is the highest point of the great Alborz chain that separates the Caspian Sea from the Iran plateau. It stands out very high, with its elegant cone shape, in the Lar National Park, about 70 km northeast of Tehran, the capital of Iran. With its 5,610 m, this volcano is the highest point in Iran and the entire Middle East.
As a volcano, Damavand is a dormant but potentially active giant, as can be seen from the sulphurous emissions released from some fumaroles near the summit. Its natural features include snow-capped peak, rocky slopes, steep cliffs, natural glaciers, and hot springs, which add to the area’s appeal.
At an altitude of 5610 meters, reaching the top of Mount Damavand is an exciting challenge for mountaineers. This climb requires physical endurance, proper flexibility and climbing skills, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers from all over the world. As the reward for climbing Damavand to the summit, a spectacular view of the surrounding Alborz Mountains, a wonderful view of the Caspian Sea and Tehran, the capital of Iran, gives you the good feeling of “it really worth my effort”.
Characterized by its conical shape and volcanic activity, Damavand is considered the abode of mythical creatures and a symbol of purity and power according to ancient Iranian mythology. Whether you are trying to conquer its highest peak or simply admire its beauty from afar, Mount Damavand is a landmark that shows Iran’s wonders and cultural heritage.
There are 16 routes to climb Damavand Peak, but only four are considered the main routes. Many of the routes now have shelters and provide directions for climbers, making the journey more accessible. To reach the peak, travelers must journey to Damavand city. There are 4 main routes to climb the peak:
Southern Damavand Flank Route: Starting from the villages of Polour and Rineh, Damavand southern trekking route is the easiest and busiest route to climb Damavand Peak. The hiking trail starts from Gosfandsera.- Northern Damavand Flank Route: Starting from the village of Nandel, Damavand northern trekking route is the most difficult climbing route. There are two shelters at 3900 meters and 4700 meters.
- Northeastern Damavand Flank Route: Starting from the village of Gazanak, Damavand northeastern trekking route is the most beautiful route through which you can experience watching the sunrise and the beautiful view of the Yekhar Glacier. The route from this flank goes to Takht Fereydon shelter (4300m) and finally reaches the Peak.
- Western Damavand Flank Route: Starts from Abali city, Damavand western trekking route starts at the altitude of 3300 meters. At the altitude of 4200 meters Simorgh shelter, a two-story shelter with a capacity of about 20 people is located. You can trek to the peak by following the path at the back of the shelter. This route is difficult and is recommended to be followed by the professional climbers.
Southern Damavand Flank Route: Starting from the villages of Polour and Rineh, Damavand southern trekking route is the easiest and busiest route to climb Damavand Peak. The hiking trail starts from Gosfandsera.- June to September (Summer): This is the most popular time for climbing Damavand. The weather is generally mild, with warmer temperatures at lower elevations. The trails are mostly clear, and the summit can be reached without encountering excessive snow. However, it’s still important to be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear.
- October and November (Autumn): During these months, the weather starts to cool down, and there is a possibility of encountering snow and colder temperatures, especially at higher elevations. It is recommended to check weather forecasts and be prepared for potentially more challenging conditions.
- December to February (Winter): Climbing Damavand in winter is considerably more challenging and requires advanced mountaineering skills. The weather is harsh, with extremely cold temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snowfall. It is only suitable for experienced climbers with proper equipment and knowledge of winter mountaineering techniques.
- March to May (Spring): Similar to autumn, spring can also have variable weather conditions. There may still be snow on parts of the climb, and the weather can be unpredictable. It is important to be prepared for changing conditions and have the necessary equipment.
All about Damavand South Route
 | Accessibility and Popularity: The route starts from Polour village is easily reached by road, making transportation and logistics simpler. Due to this, Damavand southern route is popular among climbers, creating a lively atmosphere with fellow trekkers. This popularity can be beneficial for climbers seeking support, information exchange, and a sense of camaraderie during the trekking. |
 | Well-developed infrastructure: Damavand southern flank features well-developed infrastructure, including mountain shelters, campsites, and emergency support, providing accommodation, basic supplies, and assistance. |
 | Clear and marked trail: Damavand south route offers a well-maintained path with clear markings, reducing navigation complexities for trekkers. This ensures that climbers can easily follow the trail without getting lost or facing significant obstacles. |
 | Moderate difficulty and gradual ascent: The southern route is suitable for climbers with different skill levels, including both seasoned climbers and beginners with good fitness levels. It has less technical difficulty compared to other routes, allowing for a manageable ascent. The gradual slope of the route also facilitates better acclimatization to the altitude. |
The highest volcano in Asia invites you to a great trip
The first step in planning to climb Damavand is Iran visa application. The process is easy and we can assist you. The necessary documents include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, and passport-sized photographs. We will keep you informed about the progress and guide you through any additional requirements.
Mount Damavand Trekking Guide
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