Mount Damavand: The Majestic Roof of Iran

Introduction

Mount Damavand is located in the central part of the Alborz mountain range, south of the Caspian Sea, in the Larijan district of Amol County. It stands as the highest volcanic peak in Asia and the tallest mountain in Iran and the Middle East. With an elevation exceeding 5,000 meters, temperatures at the summit can reach 0°C in summer and plummet to -60°C in winter.

In 2008, Damavand was registered as Iran’s first natural heritage site on the National Heritage List. Since 2002, it has also been classified as a “National Natural Monument” under environmental protection. Human habitation on its slopes dates back approximately 38 centuries. This article aims to introduce this beautiful mountain and its unique peak from every perspective.

Technical Specifications

Damavand is a dormant stratovolcano. On clear, sunny days, it is visible from cities like Tehran, Varamin, Qom, and the shores of the Caspian Sea. According to the NASA Earth Observatory, its height is reported at approximately 5,670 meters, making it the 12th most prominent peak in the world.

• Air Pressure: At the summit, the air pressure is half of that at sea level, resulting in a consistently cold climate.

• Precipitation: Most precipitation in the highlands occurs as snow.

• Symbolism: As a national symbol, it features prominently in Persian mythology (such as the legend of Zahhak being imprisoned there) and has appeared on Iranian banknotes. Famous poets like Ferdowsi, Malek-osh-Sho’ara Bahar, and Akhavan-Sales have written verses in its honor.

History and Etymology

Geological History

Formed during the Holocene epoch (Fourth Geological Period), Damavand was referred to as the “Lapis Lazuli Ore Mountain” during the Assyrian era. It was part of the Median territories, and numerous prehistoric graves found on its slopes prove its ancient significance.

Meaning of the Name

The name “Damavand” is derived from Dam (steam/vapor) and Avand (possessing). Collectively, it means “the one possessing steam and smoke,” referring to its volcanic nature. It is also historically known as Dunbavand, Bikni, or Jabal-e Lajevard.

Volcanic Activity

Damavand is a semi-active volcano characterized by sulfur springs and hot springs.

• First Eruption: Approximately 1.78 million years ago.

• Major Activities: Occurred between 600,000 and 280,000 years ago.

• Last Serious Eruption: About 7,500 years ago. While recent earthquakes in Tehran sparked rumors of its reactivation, geologists note that signs like ash or steam emissions are indicators of potential activity, but not definitive proof of an imminent eruption.

Top Attractions on the Mountain

1. The Frozen Waterfall: Located on the southern face, this 7-meter high, 3-meter wide waterfall never melts. Even in summer, any slight melt refreezes at night. It is the highest waterfall in the Middle East.

2. Glaciers: Major natural glaciers include Sivoleh, Dobi-sel, Aroosak-ha, Yakhar Valley, Khortab-sar, and the Western and North-Western glaciers.

Flora and Fauna

The region boasts a rich biodiversity. Many medicinal plants found here are world-renowned, including several endemic species named after the mountain:

• Kolah Mir-Hassan Damavandi, Yazl Damavandi, Yarrow (Bumadaran) Damavandi, Forget-me-not Damavandi, and Bellflower (Zangoleh-i) Damavandi.

• The slopes are famously covered in Wild Poppies (Shaqayeq), creating a stunning “red velvet” appearance during the blooming season.

National Damavand Day

Following its national registration on July 20, 2008, July 4th (13th of Tir) was designated as National Damavand Day. Environmentalists celebrate the Tirgan Festival in the town of Rineh. This festival honors Tishtar (the rain angel) and celebrates the myth of Arash the Archer, who supposedly shot his border-defining arrow from the heights of Damavand.

Climbing Routes and Access

While visible from Tehran and Qom, climbers must travel to Tehran or the city of Damavand to begin their ascent. There are 16 documented routes, with the four main faces being:

1. Southern Face (Goosfand-Sara): The oldest and easiest route, accessed via Polur and Rineh.

2. Northern Face (Dobi-sel Ridge): Located between the Sivoleh and Dobi-sel glaciers; has two shelters at 4,000m and 5,650m.

3. North-Eastern Face (Takht-e Fereydoun): The longest route, passing through the Yakhar Glacier.

4. Western Face (Simorgh Ridge): Starts from the Vararu region and requires crossing rocky terrain and sulfur dust.

Notable Shelters

• Rineh: The first shelter on the southern face (~2,000m).

• Bargah-e Sevom: Located at 4,000m.

• Damavand Mountaineering Complex: The final shelter on the southern face, located 50m above Bargah-e Sevom.

Essential Information for Climbers

• Timing: The best window is from early June to early September. Professional climbers can summit in 2 days, while beginners should plan for 4 to 5 days.

• Gear: Backpack, sleeping bag, seasonal clothing, gloves, woolen socks, headlamp, mountain goggles, strong sunscreen, and a scarf/storm mask for sulfur fumes.

• Health: Staying hydrated is vital to combat altitude sickness.

• Summit Symbols: The frozen carcasses of a sheep and a mountain goat at the summit serve as famous landmarks for photos.

Weather and Environment

• Wind Speed: Can exceed 150 km/h at the peak.

• Precipitation: Approximately 1,400 mm annually (mostly snow at high altitudes).

• Rivers: Five major rivers surround the mountain: Haraz, Lar, Div-Asiyab, Panj-Ab, and Tineh.

Would you like me to provide a list of local guides or more detailed logistics for one of the specific climbing routes mentioned?