Mount Damavand, the emblem of endurance of the Iranians throughout history, is situated in the high Haraz valley of Mazandaran, on a line with the crests of the central Alborz. It is the highest peak in Iran, the second most prominent peak in Asia after Mount Everest, and the twelfth one in the world.
The emblematic sense of the mountain and its location on the historic east-west trade route of Silk Road, have assured that the region has been the site of significant settlement for several millennia.
Each year, Damavand Mountain attracts so many mountain climbers for the tough love it offers. They stand beneath it and feel both a sense of smallness and a kind of ambition. Let’s join them together!
At 7 a.m. drive from Tehran to the village of Gazanak (109 km, 3 hours). Hop on a 4wd to hit a dirt road towards Nandel village (2 hours). Stay overnight in the Climbing Federation camping in Nandel. En route, pass the village of Miandeh and a verdant valley covered by the exotic flora.
At 6 a.m. depart Nandel in a 4wd towards Gardaneh Sar region (2700 m). Start off our climb to reach Takht-e Fereidoun refuge at 4400 m (5 hours) where we will lodge in a camp. In the afternoon have a short acclimatization climb to 4700 heights and return to the refuge.
At 5 a.m. leave the refuge to capture the summit. After passing the stone ridge and the snow traverse we will reach the peak. Savoring the beauties atop and different flanks of this majestic mountain, we will return to Takht-e Fereidoun refuge (4 hours).
Pack the camp and head for Gardaneh Sar (4 hours), then to Nandel where we will have lunch. Next, cover the route to the village of Abgarm and swim in the curative spas. Stay overnight in Abgarm.
Today we will cover the back route to Tehran.
