Located near Dorud city in Lorestan, Gahar Lake is one of Iran’s most beautiful alpine lakes. Nestled at 2,400 meters in the Oshtrankooh Protected Area, it is surrounded by lush forests and the Zagros Mountains. Its remote location keeps it pristine and untouched.
Gahar Lake is believed to have formed after a major earthquake and became known in the late 19th century. It is now a famous destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists.
The lake has two parts:
Large section: 4–28 meters deep
Small section: About 5 hectares, shallow and crystal-clear
Swimming is generally prohibited. The surrounding forests feature oak, walnut, fig, almond, and elm trees, and local wildlife includes goats, gazelles, leopards, wolves, wild boars, foxes, turtles, eagles, and partridges.
The lake is fed by the Tapleh River, springs, and snowmelt, and it freezes in winter.
Visitors can enjoy:
Camping by the lake
Hiking and trekking
Mountain climbing
Fishing and nature walks
The best time is late spring to early autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is colorful.
“For detailed scientific insights and official tourism information about Gahar Lake, you can refer to the Iran Journal of Geography and Regional Planning article and the Iranian Journal of Fisheries Sciences article.
