All You Need to Know about Sialan Mountain

Like to go trekking in the scenic north of Iran? Sialan Mountain (4250m) is the place to be. Located in Alborz Ranges, Sialan (also spelled as Siyalan) is one of the highest and most important peaks in the region. It stretches from the breathtaking Daryasar Plain in the north to the mysterious Castles of Alamut in the south. Mount Sialan is also home to lovely valleys and springs. Join me on this post to learn more about this lovely trekking destination in Iran.

Geographical Location of Sialan Mountain

Located between Mazandaran and Qazvin provinces, Sialan extends from East Alamut in its south to Dohezar Valley in its north.

The most significant and most summitted peaks in Western Alborz (west of Mount Alam) are: Shah Alborz, Sialan, Khashchal, Bozabon, Somamos, and Dorfak. Yet, Sialan Mountain enjoys higher attractions because of being located between Alamut region and Dohezar valley.

The Camps on Sialan Mountain

There are 2 huts on this mountain, one on the northern face and the other on the southern face.

1. The stone hut (1900m): It is on the northern face of Sialan Mountain, next to the river.
2. The metal hut (3250m): It is on the route that leads to Siyalan Summit from Haniz Village.

Sialan Mountain Summit Routes

There are 3 main routes for ascending Mount Sialan. Mainly, you can summit it from the northern route, the southern route, or the ridge routes. For a summiting experience on both the northern and the southern face of Sialan Mountain, read our Sialan Mountain Summit Guide.

1. The Northern Route:

The northern route passes through Dohezar Valley. It begins from Esel Mahalleh Village (1300m). After passing Daryasar Plain, Yadbood hut and Gusfandsara, it reaches the mountain pass between Sialan and Kandigan. Following the route to the west then gets you to the summit. This route is longer than the other routes.

2. The Southern Route:

The southern route passes through Haniz Valley. It begins in Haniz Village (2200m) and extends toward north. After passing the spring, you’ll reach the hut. After that, get yourself to the mountain pass and from there to Sialan summit.

3. The Ridge Routes:

You can access Sialan Peak from other adjacent peaks. After summitting Kandigan or Khashchal, follow the route on the mountain ridge to reach Siyalan Peak.

4. The Third Route:

Following Tarulat River and then ascending toward the right ridge can also get you to the peak.

Water Resources on Sialan Mountain

You can find a lot of springs with drinkable water on the way.

Best Season for Summitting Sialan Mountain

The best time to ascend Sialan Mountain is late in Spring or early in Summer (mid-May to mid-July).

View from Mount Sialan Summit

If the sky is clear, on top of Sialan peak, you will be blessed with a view of Mount Alam, Takht-e Soleyman, and Haft Khan in the east and south east, Somamos and Khashchal peaks in the west, and Shah Alborz in the southeast.

Attractions Near Sialan Mountain

• Tonekabon City

Tonekabon is known as the capital of citrons in Iran. Its nice weather also makes it a great place to cultivate flowers. The lush landscapes of Tonekabon and its rich history make it a great attraction near Sialan Mountain.

• Daryasar Plain

Daryasar plain is located between 4 mountain peaks. Alamut’s natural glaciers from one side and Mount Sialan from the other side have surrounded this scenic plain. Khachchal and Kandigan peaks are the other peaks around Daryasar. In late April and early May, Daryasar plain turns into a piece of heaven on earth. The flowing springs on the plain give life to a carpet of yellow flowers that dazzle your eyes.

• Dohezar Jungles

Have a special hiking experience in the middle of a pristine and foggy jungle. Dohezar Jungles (2000m) are unique because of their rivers, heights, vegetation, green valleys and Chal Darreh Forest Park. The greatness and beauty of Dohezar Jungles is one of the main reasons the region is a tourist magnet. Of the charms of Dohezar is when the serene peace of the jungle breaks by the song of birds. Mahi Varzan Waterfall, Garkhani Spring and the beautiful Dohezar road have added to the beauty of this region.

• Alamut Valley

Alamut region is a popular magnet near Mount Sialan. It is filled with hot and mineral springs like Gramarud, Atanrud and Ninehrud. The water on Alamut is supplied by springs and melted snow. Andej River, Alamut River and Taleghan River are Alamut’s main rivers.  Taleghan River joins Andej and Alamut rivers and created Shahrud river. You can also find many historical castles (even pre-Islamic) in the northern and southern parts of Alborz mountains. These castles have been the stronghold of many local rulers like the world-famoun Hassan-I Sabbah. Shirkuh Castle, Shahrak Castle, Hassan-I Sabbah Castle (Alamut Castle), Lambesar Castle, Lar Castle, Meimoon Stronghold and Shirkuh Castle are of the most important castles in the region.

Like to go on an Adventure on Sialan Mountain?

Then hop on our 3-day Hike to Alamut and Summit Sialan Mountain tour or our 7-day Siyalan and Damavand tour.