Lafur Forest

Located in Mazandaran province, Lafur Forest is part of the ancient Hyrcanian forests and is now one of the natural attractions of the province. This forest is situated in the Lafur district, which is a part of the Savadkuh county in Mazandaran province, and it offers unique and diverse landscapes. Lafur forest and village are bordered by Shirgah in the north, the Alborz mountains in the south, underwater resources in the east, and Babol in the west. The forest covers an area of approximately 800 hectares.

In the past, Lafur was the center of Savadkuh, except for the Qajar era when it was considered to be a part of Babol. The word "Lafur" or "Lapour" means "riverbank" and refers to an inhabited area or region located next to a river, trees, and forests. The forest and the Lafur district are inseparable and are now recognized under the same name and region. The Lafur region is composed of a collection of valleys and highlands, with the highest point being the village of Burkhani at an elevation of about 1,651 meters above sea level. The beautiful Lafur forest is located in the western and central parts of the Lafur district, along the Sharqelet waterfall and in the vicinity of the dam area. The proximity of this forest to picturesque villages such as Alamkola, Burkhani, Gashnian, Naftchal, Chaksar, Asboukola, Galeshkola, Mirarkola, Imamkola, Kalikola, and Marzi Darreh allows for accommodation near the forest for several days. Additionally, staying in the forest cottages of Lafur can provide an unparalleled experience of being in the forest for urban dwellers.

 Lafur Forest has a moderate Caspian climate and falls into the category of Mediterranean climate based upon the climatic classification. It receives rainfall almost throughout the year, with the highest amount of rain occurring in the autumn season. In addition to its vegetation and trees such as maple, box elder, oak, beech, and other unique plant species, this forest boasts other attractions. Among them are the Tirkan Waterfalls, Azarrud Forest Park, Eskelym Waterfall, Gazou Waterfall, Palang Darreh, Terez Waterfall, SPR and Jelsang Waterfall, Anjilika Waterfall, Chelak Waterfall, and Espar Cave.

The best time to visit Lafur Forest is during spring and summer. However, this region also has its own beauty in the autumn and winter seasons. It is essential to check the weather conditions before traveling to the forest to have a better nature experience. Additionally, it is important to have appropriate equipment such as suitable shoes, warm clothing, sufficient food, etc., when visiting this area.

To reach Lafur Forest from Tehran, you can take the Firuzkuh - Pol Sefid - Shirgah road, which leads you to the forest. Other natural attractions in the vicinity of Lafur Forest include the beech forest, Zangian Cave, Alasht Village, Veresk Bridge, Shurmast Lake, Ourim Forest, Lafur Dam, Erfekuh Mountain, and Imamzadeh Gazou.