This article is the most comprehensive guidebook and travel instruction available online for Mount Damavand, Iran. It provides step-by-step guidance for climbers of all levels, covering everything needed to plan and complete a safe ascent. From preparation tips to practical advice on equipment, routes, and safety measures, this guide ensures a reliable, structured resource for a successful and secure climb. Authored by Mr. Ardeshir Soltani.
To climb Mount Damavand in Iran, the highest peak in the Middle East at 5,671 m, most trekkers start from Polour Camp and follow the classic South Route, which is the easiest and best supported with huts and shelters. Other options include the West Route with a steeper descent, the North East Route offering longer scenic trails, and the challenging North Route for experienced climbers. The best climbing season is from June to September, and a typical program takes 3–5 days with proper acclimatization. Hiring a local Damavand mountain guide, preparing suitable trekking gear, and checking weather forecasts are key steps to ensure a safe and successful ascent of Iran’s iconic volcanic summit.
Mount Damavand offers several routes for climbers of different skill levels. While there are more than 16 trails leading to the summit, four of them stand out as the most popular and practical: the South Route, West Route, North Route, and North-East Route. This article provides the complete instructions for climbing Damavand from each of these four main routes, helping you choose the best path according to your experience, fitness, and climbing goals.
Each of the four major routes offers a unique combination of scenery, difficulty, and facilities. At altitudes of around 4,000 meters, you will find shelters or refuges that provide essential rest points for climbers. These facilities, along with mule services, natural springs, and access by 4WD vehicles on some routes, play a key role in determining the overall difficulty and logistics of the climb.
The South Route is the most popular and best equipped, offering easier logistics and access. The West Route provides a moderate challenge with fewer facilities. The North Route is considered the hardest of the main four, demanding more stamina and preparation. Finally, the North-East Route is one of the longest but also one of the most scenic, with the famous Takht-e Fereydoun Shelter at about 4,380 meters. Together, these four paths present diverse landscapes and challenges, making Damavand a truly rewarding destination for trekkers and mountaineers alike.
Mount Damavand can be climbed through four main routes: the popular and easier South, the quieter West, the long and scenic North East, and the steep and challenging North. Each route offers unique experiences for climbers. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and respect for nature, summiting Damavand will be an unforgettable adventure in Iran.
Certified Experts & Step-by-Step Guide for Climbing Mount Damavand
The South Route is the most popular and accessible path to Mount Damavand, featuring scenic landscapes and the new mountain resort at 4,250 meters. This route is considered the easiest and quickest for climbers of all experience levels. The journey typically begins with a drive from Tehran to Polour Village, offering breathtaking views along Haraz Road. The route is well-suited for both independent trekkers and guided tours.
Damavand tours provide comprehensive information about gear, difficulty levels, and local guides to help climbers plan a safe and successful ascent. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced mountaineer, this route offers an unforgettable adventure.
Trekking Mount Damavand from the South Route can be done with flexible itineraries ranging from three to seven days. These programs are designed for acclimatization, safety, and enjoyment, allowing climbers to gradually reach the summit. Optional visits to Abe Garm Larijan thermal hot springs are available after the climb.
Recommendation: Begin your journey on a Saturday or Sunday to avoid crowds and peak seasons. Ideal for climbers based in Tehran and nearby regions.
Day 1 - Departure and Ascent
Morning: Depart from your hotel in Tehran and drive to Camp 1 (Polur).
Midday: Continue driving to Camp 2 (Base Camp).
Afternoon: Embark on a 4 to 6-hour hike to Camp 3 (Bargah Sevom).
Evening: Overnight stay at Bargah Sevom in the new hut, old shelter, igloo, or tent.
Experience the journey:
We'll pick you up from your hotel in Tehran and drive to Camp 1 (Polur) in the morning. After a short drive to Camp 2 (Base Camp), we’ll hike for 4-6 hours to reach Camp 3 (Bargah Sevom). Overnight accommodation options include the new hut, old shelter, igloo, or tent.
Day 2 - Summit Day
Early Morning: Start the ascent at around 5 AM to reach the summit of Mount Damavand.
Midday: Enjoy breathtaking views from the summit.
Afternoon: Descend back to Camp 3.
Evening: Overnight stay at the New Hut in Camp 3.
Summit experience:
We’ll start climbing early (around 5 AM) to reach the peak of Mount Damavand. After taking in the spectacular views, we'll descend back to Camp 3 for a well-deserved rest.
Day 3 - Descent and Return
Morning: Hike back from Camp 3 to Camp 2.
Midday: Drive from Camp 2 to Camp 1.
Afternoon: Return drive to Tehran.
Evening: End of the tour.
Concluding the adventure:
We’ll trek down from Camp 3 to Camp 2, drive back to Camp 1, and finally return to your starting point in Tehran, marking the end of the tour.
Climbing Mount Damavand: Expert Guides & Essential Tips
The West Route offers a moderately challenging mountaineering experience with a walk-up approach, basic snow and cold conditions, and a steep, difficult descent. At 4,200 meters, climbers can rest at the Simorgh Shelter (Panagah Simorgh in Farsi).
Note: Simorgh refers to a legendary Roc, a gigantic mythical bird in Iranian tales, said to carry off elephants and other large beasts.
Your Ultimate Damavand Climbing Resource: Guides & Advice
The West Route is the second most popular path after the classic South Route. To start, travel along Haraz Road to Polour Village. During summer, 4WD vehicles can transport climbers via Lar Dam Road to the starting point known as the Parking Area. The base camp in Vararo sits at approximately 3,400 meters. From there, trek to Simorgh Shelter, which features running water. Overnight accommodations are available at the refuge or nearby tenting areas.
After resting overnight at Simorgh Shelter, continue along the western ridge. The route passes glaciers, rocky sections, and sulfur-rich soils. The slope leading to the Damavand Crater is steep but shortens the overall route. From the Parking Area, it typically takes 2–3 hours to reach Simorgh Shelter, followed by 5–7 hours to the Damavand West Peak, depending on physical strength, acclimatization, and pace.
Climbers should be prepared for rocky terrain, steep inclines, and variable snow conditions. The West Route offers a more adventurous and physically demanding alternative to the South Route, providing rewarding panoramic views of Mount Damavand and its volcanic crater.
Damavand North-East Route
Climbing from the northeastern side of Mount Damavand, Iran
The northeast front of Mount Damavand, also known as the Nandal Village Path, is considered one of the most beautiful routes to reach the summit. If you plan to climb Damavand or simply explore its landscapes, this route is highly recommended. The natural beauty of the northeastern side is endless, and no photograph can truly capture its charm.
The North-East Route is a demanding climb, involving a long and strenuous ascent, exposure to cold and strong winds, and a challenging descent. Along the way, climbers can use the Takht-e Fereydoun Shelter, located at about 4,380 meters.
Certified Damavand Mountain Guides and Hiking Instructions
The North-East side offers one of the longer approaches to Damavand Peak. Climbers usually choose between two main trails:
A. Starting from Gazaneh Village
This option is longer and requires crossing the Talkh Roud River
B. Starting from Nandal Village
This is the shorter and more popular trail, recommended for most climbers.
Both paths eventually join at the Takht-e Fereydoun Shelter. From there, the ascent continues along the same route to the summit. Because the Gazaneh trail is significantly longer, most climbers begin from Nandal Village. From Nandal, you can either hire a 4WD vehicle to reach the Gardaneh-Sar Sheepfold starting point, or hike to it on foot.
It takes about 45 minutes by 4WD car to reached the base of the ascent, which is known as the sheepfold and has a height of about 2870 meters above sea level. If you go from n Gazaneh Village, this route passes along the bitter river and passes through different farms to reach the spring of Espe. You then have to reach the sheepfold from to the top of a hill below of the Minaret Peak. Then, after crossing a steep slope, you will reach Takht Fereydoun Shelter. The continuation of this route will reach the north route somewhere and they will reach the summit together.
Northeast Side of Damavand Mountain Iran
Access route to Nandel village (northeast side of Damavand)
If you intend to use your own car, you should go from Tehran to Amol via Haraz Road. The Nandal village exit is located on the left side of the road. After passing Gaznak, Vana tunnel, Baijan and Pasgah. After the Baijan and passing through tunnel number 8, there is a sign on the left side of the road at the beginning of the path that says to Nandel Mountaineer's House. Then drive 16 km to Haji Dela village, 18 km to Mian Deh and 19 km to Nandel. Follow the route at a safe speed and finally reach the very beautiful Nandel village at an altitude of about 2300 meters. At the beginning of Nandel village, there is a two-story house for climbers, which includes a yard for car parking, two rooms (one big and one small), bathroom and toilet. The capacity of Nandel mountaineer's house (in the best case) is about twenty people. Visit also Damavand Hiking Trekking Guide.
If you don't have a tight schedule, we suggest staying in Nandel village one day before the start of the climb, because you can enjoy the beauty of the village and the surrounding plains, and considering the height of Nandel, which is about 2300 meters, your body will have more time to acclimatize and adapt to the high altitude conditions. Nandel village is also the destination of climbers who want to climb the roof of Iran from the northern side! To reach the sheepfold of Gardaneh Sar, i.e. the beginning of the northeast route (from Nandel), you can use a 4WD car to take you to Gardaneh-Sar sheepfold. Of course, you can hike the route on foot with a heavy backpack and reach Gosfandsera and then leave for Takht Fereydoun shelter, and of course one day will be added to the duration of your plan.Gardane Sar sheepfold at an altitude of 2870 meters
This is the last point where you have access to clean drinking water during the entire ascent. Therefore, we suggest that you take enough water with you for the entire time of your ascent to Damavand peak (usually three days). You can coordinate with the guy in charge of the sheepfold and rent a mule according to the number of people in your team to take your extra heavy luggage to the Takht-Fereydoun refuge. Each mule carries only three backpacks, therefore, to reduce costs, it is suggested to collect the heavy equipment of the team members (such as water bottles, etc.) in backpacks and leave them to the mules, and therefore the team members with their almost light weight backpacks ascend to shelter (have enough water with you for the trek to the shelter).
After passing through the Gardaneh Sar and the beginning of the northeast ridge, most of the route has clear foot print and you have to hike for about 6 hours to reach Takht Fereydoun shelter. There are two points along the route where you can use the water from the melting of the glaciers. However, if you are not used to drinking the glacier water, it is better not to use this water for drinking. Takht Fereydoun shelter is located at an altitude of 4388 meters on the edge of Yekhar glacier and can accommodate about 20 people. The area around the shelter is suitable for tenting. It is better to rest a little after reaching the shelter and leave your belongings in the shelter and continue the route towards Yachar Ridge and reach the height of about 4800 meters and stay at that height for an hour until your body adapts to the conditions of the altitude, then return to the shelter and have a light dinner and prepare for tomorrow's summit push!
It is better to pack and prepare your one-day bag (attack bag pack) the night before climbing, which will save you time.
Continue the path above the shelter and ride on the edge of the Yakhar Glacier. The trail passes through loose rocks and falling stones and this issue has caused damage to climbers many times, so do not stay away from the footprints as much as possible and be careful of that part of the ridge path overlooking Yekhar Glacier. After crossing the Yakhar ridge, you will reach to a place called Bam-Barfi (snowy roof). The path gradually becomes steeper. If the wind blows in your direction, it will bring sulfur gas with it, so be sure to wear a handkerchief or a mask on your face. When you reach the snowy roof, the path of the two northern and northeastern fronts will meet and the clear path will take you to the Damavand summit (also called the roof of Iran).
In altitude above 5000 meters, pay attention to your heart rate, try to have a rhythm of your breathing and keep the rhythm artificially. You may have to breathe once every half step, but it is worth it, because with this method, you will get headache and confusion. Of course, before climbing Damavand peak, you should work on the volume of your lungs to have a comfortable climb. Go slowly along the steep path of the snowy roof and reach Damavand peak. Try to stay away from Damavand sulfur crater. It is better not to stay on the summit for more than 30 minutes, because both the condition of 5700 meters altitude will tire your team members and the Sulphur gas of the crater can cause poisoning.
The northeastern front is famous for its narrow ridge, falling rocks, and loose track. Justify the team members to maintain their distance from the person in front of them during the queue, it is better that the distance between people is less than one meter. Consider altitude, fatigue and cold, these three factors can drain your energy, so when you return, try to maintain your concentration and take steady steps. Better to spend another night in the shelter but the decision is yours. It is 400 meters below the small and green plain shelter where some mountaineers camp on the second night among the beautiful grasses of this plain.
Natural Resources
The north-eastern ridge has beautiful and pristine natural landscapes due to its remoteness. Dense vegetation, sufficient water resources have allowed rare animal species to grow and develop, so if you climb when the path is deserted, you will have a chance to meet them. As a hiking friend or nature lover, you are expected to be diligent in preserving the natural resources of the area, prepare plastic bags with you before the program, and do not leave any garbage when you return from the shelter, and give nature the gift of your footprints. 2 PM Law in Mountaineering!
If you have managed to reach the peak, it is better to leave before 14:00, and if it is 14:00 and you have not yet managed to climb to the peak, it is better to stop climbing and return. You have a long way ahead of you on the glacier and the ridge of the ice fall, so you must save your energy. Mobile Network in northeast front of Damavand
From Gardneh Sar sheepfold to Takht Fereydoun shelter, there are Mobile Network services (Irancell and the Hamrah-Avval).
You can inform Mr. Salehi (in charge of Nandel mountaineer house) at what time to come after you with a 4WD car and take you back to Nandal. Helpful People in the area:
Nandel mountaineer's house (Mr. Salehi's house)
Hoshang Salehi (responsible for mountaineer house)
Ismail Ramezani (4WD car (Nissan) driver)
Ali Qanbari (owner of the mule)
Trekking Mount Damavand from the North Face
The north face of Mount Damavand is widely known as the most difficult of the main climbing routes. However, thanks to the presence of a dirt road, basic facilities, and mountain shelters, it is still more accessible than some of Damavand’s lesser-known secondary routes. In general, climbing Damavand is always challenging because of its extreme height as the highest volcanic peak in Asia.
Typically, climbing Damavand from the north face is planned as a 3–5 day expedition. On the first day, mountaineers usually leave Tehran in the early morning, travel to Nandal Village, and from there continue by 4WD vehicle to the trailhead known as the Big Stone, located at about 2,900 meters above sea level. From this point, climbers begin trekking toward the high camps—either the 4000-meter Refuge or, for stronger teams, the 5000-meter Shelter—arriving before nightfall.
At the Big Stone, extra equipment can be handed over to mules and porters who will transport the loads up to the 4000-meter Refuge or even near the 5000-meter Shelter (around 4,400 meters, roughly half an hour below the shelter itself). These porter and mule services can be arranged in advance at Nandal Village, making the ascent more manageable for climbers.
A four-day program to Damavand Peak from the northern route gives climbers the best and most logical itinerary for the ascent.
Day1 - Travel from Tehran to the Nandal Village or the Big Ston
Travel from Tehran to Nandal Village. Spend the first night before the ascent in the village of Nandel mountaineering house or preferably in the tenting area at Big Stone. Proper sleep is very important before climbing to heights above 4000 meters>
Day2 - Climb to the 4000-Shelter or the 5000-Shelter.
On the second day, trek with a heavy backpack and all the equipment from the Big Rock to the first shelter at an altitude of 4,000 meters. One the first day if you talk to the mule man it is also possible to give your heavy equipment to the porter and mule to be carried to the first shelter before your arrival. In the afternoon at the first shelter, you can spend a good amount of time acclimatizing to a higher altitude and then rest and sleep properly before summit push at the first shelter.
Note:
If you are not exhausted, it is also a good idea to go directly to the second shelter because on the summit day you have more time to ascend to Damavand peak and descend back to high campsite. Hiking from the starting point Big Rock to the first shelter takes about 4-5 hours on average. Mountaineering from the first shelter to the second shelter is about 3 hours. Climbing from the second shelter to Damavand summit is about 5-6 hours.
Day3 - Trek to Damavand summit and descent back to the camping site.
On the third day start your trek early morning at around 5 am with a light backpack, depending on the season and the weather conditions, after passing the second shelter, challenge the final part to Damavand peak. You should be able to climb about 1600 meters before noon and reach the summit. Then with proper timing, return to the second shelter without pressure and finally to the first shelter, which is your overnight place, and spend the night in the first shelter to recover your lost energy.
Day4 - Descent to the Nandal Village and then Tehran.
On the fourth and final day, take your heavy backpack and overnight equipment and depending on the time you have, reach the Big Stone and your vehicle before noon or evening and return back to Tehran and finish the program.
It is usually more common to go directly to the second shelter because on the second day you have more time to ascend to Damavand peak and descend back to high campsite. Hiking from the starting point Big Rock to the first shelter takes about 4-5 hours on average. Mountaineering from the first shelter to the second shelter is about 3 hours. Climbing from the second shelter to Damavand summit is about 5-6 hours.
Nandal village is the starting point for mountaineers. Nandel is a good-looking village with an altitude of 2,350 masl and is located in northern face of Mt. Damavand Iran. Nandel is a small summer resort village where people go during the summer vacation located about 15 Km off Haraz road. The distance of Nandel village from Tehran is about140 km.
Due to its proximity to Damavand Iran, Nandel is one of the main routes to climb Damavand peak, and mountaineers come to Nandel village to trek Damavand either from north-east or north face of the mountain. Many ordinary tourists also visit this village for the summer holiday.
Nandel area has a very beautiful nature. It has rich water resources and dense vegetation. In addition, it is less accessible than other parts of Damavand Mountain. Therefore, rare animals live in these areas, to shelter from hunters. All these wonders together have turned the protected wild life zone of Damavand into a pristine and alive land. Nandel village is one of the starting points for climbers who want to hike Damavand peak from the north or northeast sides. To climb Damavand summit through these two face, you must first reach Nandel. In fact, it is considered one of the best and most beautiful routes for experienced mountaineers.
The best time and season to climb Damavand north front is in August. In this month most of the trail is free of snow, the temperature increases and the winds speed decreases around the Damavand peak. But during Iranian holidays and the weekends throughout the month of August, especially the main routes of Damavand, are at their climbing peak unless the weather condition is unstable. The reason for this crowding is the presence of climbing groups and less experienced people with the aim of increasing the chances of a successful climb to Damavand summit. July and September are also suitable months for trekking Damavand Iran, however, you should carefully monitor the Damavand meteo.
Damavand weather is very cold in spring, autumn and winter and difficult for mountaineering. In the spring, the Damavand weather is very unstable. As soon as the weather warms up, the danger of avalanches and falling rocks is serious on all fronts, especially in the north and northeast sides. From the middle of June and in snowy years even sometimes in July, the conditions for normal summer ascents are uncertain.
Tent, two-day & single-day backpack, suitable hiking shoes, sleeping bag, mattress, cooking and lighting equipment, clothing, trekking pants, gortex and polar jacket, down jacket, polar hat and gloves, gortex gloves, first aid kit , trekking poles, individual rope, carabineer, anti-UV glasses, sunscreen, sun hat.
For detailed gear list visit This Page.
Discover the main Damavand camps, strategically located along the four major climbing routes. These campsites and shelters provide essential resting points, support services, and safety for mountaineers on their way to the summit. From base villages to high-altitude refuges, each camp plays a crucial role in planning a successful and safe Damavand expedition.
Trekking and climbing Mount Damavand require careful planning, preparation, and safety considerations. Be well-equipped, physically fit, and consider hiring experienced guides. Always check local conditions, obtain permits, and follow proper safety guidelines before attempting the climb.
Gradual acclimatization is essential. Spend time at intermediate camps, hydrate well, eat light meals rich in carbohydrates, and avoid overexertion. Most climbers spend at least one night at Camp 3 (4,220 m) and take a short hike up to 4,800 m before their summit push. Read more tips on acclimatization .
At Camp 3, climbers can choose between tents, igloos, the Old Shelter, or the modern New Hut with bunk beds. Camps 1 and 2 also allow tenting, but Camp 2 (Goosfand-Sara) can be crowded and polluted in summer, so most climbers prefer Camp 3 for overnight stays.
Damavand offers several routes:
In summer, climbing Damavand is comparable to Kilimanjaro (5,892 m) or reaching Everest Base Camp (5,380 m). In winter, however, conditions are extreme, and the climb feels more like tackling 7,000 m peaks. Main challenges include altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and physical endurance.
Good physical fitness is essential. Cardiovascular training, hiking practice, and strength workouts improve your chances of success. The South Route is suitable for beginners with basic hiking experience, but prior mountaineering knowledge is strongly recommended. Winter climbs require advanced skills and technical equipment.
Essential gear includes sturdy boots, layered clothing, warm jackets, gloves, hats, sunglasses, trekking poles, headlamp, and a sleeping bag. For winter: crampons, ice axe, and ropes may be required. Some rental services are available in Tehran and Polour, but bringing your own ensures quality and fit. Full gear checklist here.
Guides are not mandatory, but highly recommended—especially for first-timers. Experienced local guides provide safety, acclimatization support, navigation, mule arrangements, and cultural insights, greatly increasing summit success rates.
Costs depend on whether you go independently or with a tour. Expenses include guides, transportation, food, equipment, and permits. See full tour package pricing.
Yes. Trekkers require permits for certain routes. Check with local authorities or Damawand permit info before your trip. Permits help with safety, organization, and environmental protection.
Limited rescue teams operate mainly on the Southern Route. Response times vary due to altitude and terrain. Carry a first-aid kit, have an emergency plan, and use reliable communication devices.
In summer, limited food and bottled water may be available at Camps 1–3. However, climbers should carry enough food, sweets, biscuits, and at least 1.5 liters of water for summit day. A stove and water purification supplies are highly recommended.
Yes. A reserved day helps manage unexpected delays such as bad weather, acclimatization needs, or transportation issues. Most climbers choose 4–5 day programs, but winter ascents may take up to 7 days.
Mount Damavand, known as the “Roof of Iran”, is the highest volcanic peak in Asia and one of the most iconic summits in the world. Standing at 5,671 meters in the Alborz mountain range, it attracts climbers from across the globe. The mountain’s beauty, prominence, and accessibility make it a dream destination for trekkers and adventure seekers alike.
Climbing Damavand is a challenging yet rewarding experience. The ascent typically takes between 2 to 4 days, depending on the chosen route and the climber’s level of fitness. While there are more than a dozen paths to the top, the four main routes are the South, West, North, and North-East trails. Each route has at least one refuge at around 4,000 meters, providing essential shelter and support during the climb.
Due to Damavand’s altitude, proper acclimatization is critical. Climbers should plan for gradual ascent, rest stops at camps, and flexibility in their itinerary. Even experienced mountaineers can face altitude-related challenges, so preparation is essential. Professional guides based in nearby villages such as Polour and Nandal can arrange mule services, porters, and safe itineraries, greatly improving the chances of a successful and enjoyable summit.
The best time to climb Damavand is during the summer season, from mid-June to mid-September, when snow levels are lower, weather is more stable, and routes are safer. Outside of this period, climbers face harsh winter conditions, deep snow, and extreme winds, requiring advanced skills and specialized gear.
Reaching the summit of Damavand is more than just a climb—it is an unforgettable journey through alpine meadows, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking views of the Alborz mountains. With the right preparation, fitness, and guidance, standing on the peak of Damavand will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the heart of Iran.
