Tehran, this bustling and vibrant metropolis, brings its residents days filled with smoke and traffic. But fortunately, not far from this chaos, hidden and valuable treasures lie scattered—each one capable of soothing both body and soul. The springs near Tehran, these geological wonders, gush forth from the heart of mountains and plains, and each one, with its unique taste, color, temperature, and therapeutic properties, offers a distinct journey for nature enthusiasts.
In this comprehensive guide, we aim to introduce you to the most complete list of springs near Tehran—from Cheshmeh Ali, a remnant of bygone days and a former recreational spot for the capital’s residents, to Cheshmeh Shoorab-e Savadkuh with its astonishing colors and sulfurous vapors. Whether you are looking for a one-day getaway in nature, want to benefit from the healing properties of mineral waters to improve digestive, liver, or skin conditions, or simply wish to escape the city’s smog for a few hours, this article is your complete guide. Join us as we review the access routes, features, and best visiting times for each of these pristine and breathtaking springs.
Cheshmeh Ali (Shahr-e Rey) – The Most Historic Spring in Tehran
Located in the heart of Shahr-e Rey, Cheshmeh Ali is one of the oldest water attractions in the capital. Before 1940, this spot was a popular place for people to swim and bathe. Today, it has been transformed into a full-service recreational-tourist complex. The water of this spring gushes from the heart of the mountain, and its lush green and cool surroundings make it an excellent destination for all seasons.
📍 Address: Cheshmeh Ali Boulevard, Shahr-e Rey, Tehran.
Cheshmeh Shoor (Howz-e Soltan, Qom) – A Desert and Therapeutic Spring
Cheshmeh Shoor is located near the salt lake of Howz-e Soltan, along the Tehran-Qom route. Its salty water is rich in minerals and is beneficial for treating skin and joint diseases. The best time to visit is during the cooler months of the year, such as November, December, and from late winter to May.
📍 Address: End of the Aliabad branch road, off the Tehran-Qom highway, near Howz-e Soltan Lake.
Cheshmeh Talkhab (Laloon, Fasham) – The Strangest Carbonated Spring in Iran
Cheshmeh Talkhab is a rare geological phenomenon, with carbonated and bitter water that tastes similar to soda. Next to this spring, another spring with fresh water flows, creating a stunning contrast in color and taste. Its therapeutic properties for the digestive system are well known.
📍 Address: Lashkarak Route, Fasham, Laloon Village – requires a 3-hour hike.
Cheshmeh Mojz (Firuzkuh) – Tranquility in the Heart of Lasem Village
Cheshmeh Mojz is located near Lasem Village along the Haraz Road. Its short and easy access path makes it an ideal choice for family picnics.
📍 Address: Haraz Road, Lasem Village – 10 to 15 minutes of walking.
Cheshmeh A’la (Damavand) – Green Nature on the Abali Road
Cheshmeh A’la is situated on the Damavand-to-Abali route. With its paved pathways and tree-shaded areas, it provides a peaceful and pleasant environment for walking and relaxation.
📍 Address: Damavand-Abali Road.
Cheshmeh Khamdeh (Firuzkuh) – A Hidden Paradise in Khamdeh Village
This spring is located in a village called Khamdeh, which serves as a one-day getaway for many Tehran residents, especially those from the eastern part of the city, due to its proximity. With its unique nature and pleasant climate, this spring is situated 20 kilometers from Firuzkuh, in Shahrabad District, Khamdeh Village.
📍 Address: Firuzkuh County, Khamdeh Village.
Cheshmeh Shoorab-e Savadkuh – A Colorful Waterfall Next to the Railway
Cheshmeh Shoorab-e Savadkuh, also known as Shoorab-e Gadook Waterfall, is a combination of a spring and a waterfall, displaying red, yellow, and gray colors due to sulfur minerals. The passing train overhead adds a unique spectacle to this location.
📍 Address: Shoorab Village, Savadkuh, Mazandaran – after the Gadook railway tunnel.
Cheshmeh Tizab (Damavand) – Water with a Sharp Taste
Cheshmeh Tizab is located 53 kilometers from Tehran, in northern Damavand. The water has a sharp and astringent taste and is beneficial for digestive and skin issues. A 10-meter waterfall is also nearby.
📍 Address: Abali Road, northern Damavand – requires mountain hiking.
Cheshmeh Galeh Galeh (Shahrestanak) – The Most Abundant Spring in the Region
Cheshmeh Galeh Galeh is situated at the highest point of Shahrestanak Village along the Karaj-Chalous Road. Located at an altitude of 2,352 meters, it is one of the most abundant springs in the area, and locals attribute healing properties to its water.
📍 Address: Karaj-Chalous Road, Shahrestanak Village – accessible by car and on foot.
Cheshmeh Ghal’eh Dokhtar (Haraz Road) – A Healer for Liver and Stomach
Cheshmeh Ghal’eh Dokhtar is located 50 kilometers from Tehran, between the Emamzadeh Hashem pass and Polour. Its water is highly beneficial for digestive system, liver, and pancreatic disorders, and it flows alongside a beautiful waterfall.
📍 Address: Tehran-Amol Road, between Emamzadeh Hashem and Polour.
Cheshmeh Abali Haraz and Alborz Mineral Spring (Abali)
Both springs are located 60 kilometers northeast of Tehran, in the village of Abali. Their water is rich in CO₂ and helps regulate the digestive system, liver, pancreas, and reduce cholesterol and uric acid.
📍 Address: Tehran-Amol Road, Abali Village.
Cheshmeh Veleh (Gachsar) – A Spring in the Heart of the Mountains
Cheshmeh Veleh is located southwest of Gachsar, near Veleh Village. Access to it requires traversing natural mountain trails.
📍 Address: Karaj-Chalous Road, Gachsar region, Veleh Village.
Cheshmeh Shahedasht (Karaj) – A Remedy for Respiratory Patients
Cheshmeh Shahedasht is located 35 kilometers south of Karaj. Its water contains sodium sulfate and has been found beneficial for respiratory patients and those with goiter.
📍 Address: 35 kilometers south of Karaj, Shahedasht region.
Golden Tips for Visiting the Springs Near Tehran
Best Season to Visit: Spring and early summer for mountainous areas, and November, December, and late winter to May for desert springs.
Essential Equipment: Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, enough drinking water, and for springs like Talkhab and Shoor, don’t forget your camera.
Environmental Protection: Never leave trash in nature and avoid lighting fires in pristine areas.
