9 Stunning Natural Attractions in West Azerbaijan

1. Kani Barazan Wetland

Location: 30 km north of Mahabad, toward Miandoab

Kani Barazan is Iran’s first official birdwatching site, home to over 170 species of migratory and native birds. Located near Qarah Dagh village and surrounded by dryland farms, the wetland is protected by the local community.

Species like marbled teal ducks, sandpipers, and terns can be observed without binoculars, thanks to their comfort around humans. The floating reed islands create a striking visual scene for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

2. Shalmash Waterfall

Location: 15 km south of Sardasht

Shalmash is a cascade of three tiered waterfalls hidden within the lush oak forests of the Zagros Mountains. The hiking trail winds through trees, accompanied by the roaring sound of falling water.

Misty rainbows and the sheer power of the water create an unforgettable experience for visitors.

3. Garawaan Spring

Location: Mahabad–Sardasht road, before reaching the city

A gassy mineral spring with colorful travertine rocks formed over thousands of years by calcium deposits. The bubbling water and natural terraces resemble the deck of a giant stone ship.

Locals believe the water has skin-healing properties, making it both a visual and therapeutic attraction.

4. Saholan Cave

Location: Mahabad

A semi-aquatic cave with a 20-meter-deep lake and boat tours between limestone formations and pigeon nests. Its Kurdish name, "Koteh Koter", means "Pigeon Nest".

Echoes of wings and mystical lighting add to the cave’s haunting beauty.

5. Ghasemlou Valley

Location: 35 km from Urmia toward Oshnavieh

A forested valley with a clear river, numerous caves and crevices, and a small waterfall at the end of the trail. Armenian wild sheep were reintroduced here in 1997, enhancing local biodiversity.

A no-hunting zone ideal for peaceful, family-friendly nature walks.

6. Karaftu Cave

Location: Near the city of Takab

A three-story historic cave with hand-carved corridors and rooms from different eras. The entrance is accessed via a metal ladder set 15 meters above the ground.

Once a defensive fortress in the Median era, the cave houses a Greek inscription referencing Heracles.

7. Kazem Dashi

Location: Near Lake Urmia and Gurchin village

A massive rock used as a strategic refuge during WWII by villagers led by Kazem Khan Qushchi. Narrow passes and carved structures give it a dramatic natural-historical character.

8. Solomon’s Prison (Zendan-e Soleyman)

Location: Near Takht-e Soleyman

A 100-meter-tall conical mountain with a 65-meter-wide crater, believed by locals to be the prison of demons by Solomon. A dried ancient lake once existed at its peak, shaped by geological deposits.

Likely used in antiquity for religious rituals and sacrifices.

9. Basalt Columns of Maku

Location: 25 km from Avajiq village, near Maku

Rare hexagonal basalt columns formed by the cooling of ancient lava flows in a mathematically precise pattern.

The flowing stream and towering rock formations make this one of Iran’s most stunning geological sites.