Katale Khor Cave, Zanjan

Katale Khor Cave in Zanjan was discovered less than a century ago, but it is believed to date back to the Jurassic period. Located outside of Zanjan, although Ali Sadr Cave is more frequently visited, Katale Khor is arguably the most beautiful cave in Iran, a hidden paradise in the mountains of Zanjan.

Katale Khor Cave is near the city of Garmab, situated 155 kilometers south of Zanjan.
In Turkic-speaking areas, low mountains are called ‘katale’. The cave is located on one of these katales, with the sun rising behind it, hence the name ‘Katale Khor’ (Sun Mountain).
Katale Khor was officially recorded in 1952 by a group of mountaineers, but its discovery dates back much earlier.
Due to the length of its entrance corridor, the low ceiling, and accessibility issues, the cave was long neglected. Fortunately, in 1986, a team of skilled cavers from Hamadan conducted a thorough examination and found that the cave dates back to 120 million years ago.
One of the most intriguing theories about this site is its possible connection to Ali Sadr Cave in Hamadan. Katale Khor has seven levels, three of which are open to visitors.
During a visit to this beautiful cave, you can see a statue known as the ‘Bride and Groom’. The best time to visit Katale Khor is during spring and summer.