Astara, Namin, Ardabil

Crossing the high mountain has always been attractive to everyone. Just as crossing the seas has been important for people of different ethnicities, we immediately remember dear Sohrab Sepehari, who said: “Behind the sea is a city,” indeed, this curiosity accompanies travelers; where is that city?!
Mountains form diverse weather climates and change clothing, food, customs and culture based on this climate diversity. Therefore, wherever you hear the name “Neck,” don’t doubt that cultural and natural diversity is ahead. A pass is a place where a high mountain permits us to pass, and usually, the lowest part of a mountain range is joined together, and the lowest part of this ridge is known as a pass.

In Iran, we have many gorges; some of the most famous ones are Asadabad Gorge in Hamedan, Bijan Gorge in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer Ahmad, Gadok Gorge in Mazandaran, Kulikosh Gorge in Fars and Ahavan Gorge in Semnan.
In the meantime, one of the most famous passes in Iran is the Hiran Pass. This pass is located in Gilan province, on the border of Ardabil province and bordering Azerbaijan, so when you pass through this pass, you can see the Hyrcanian forests of Azerbaijan.
To reach Hiran Pass, you must go to Astara or Ardabil because this pass is located in the Talash mountains and between Gilan and Ardabil provinces.
If you are coming from Gilan province, you should get to Astara, located at the end of the Caspian Sea coastal road and in the northernmost part west of the lake in Iran.
After visiting Steel Lagoon and Astara Bazaar, go to Ardabil Road. Astara is hot and sultry in summer but have some patience and bear the heat, as the good news is coming. Gradually the slope of the road increases, and you move away from the city on the winding road. As the height increases, beautiful landscapes appear in front of your eyes, and the air gradually cools.
Fortunately, in recent years, the route of Garneh Hiran has been improved, and you can safely drive on it.
Upon reaching the highest point, you can use the fantastic new cable car that will take you to the heights of the Fandoglou forest in Ardabil province.
After crossing the pass, you enter Ardabil province and descend toward Namin. If you didn’t have the chance to use the cable car, now you can follow the signs of Fandglou forest and reach Dasht Booneh.
If you haven’t been to Ardabil before, the tomb of Sheikh Safiuddin Ardabili and Shorabil Lake are the most obligatory places you should see. You can find relatively suitable hotels and accommodation centers in Ardabil to spend the night in the morning. Also, recently, some eco-tourist lodges have been opened in this city and its surrounding villages. These are suitable options if you are interested in the local culture and experience of living with the locals.