Clouds Forest (Abr Forest) is a part of the eldest and most beautiful Hyrcanian forests with rare animal and plant species and it is one of the most beautiful places of Shahrud town. In this forest, clouds are so close to the trees that makes it seem like the forest is riding the clouds and you can wander in the clouds. Many tourists believe that this is one of the most scenic places of Iran’s nature.
The forest with 35,000 hectares extend over the lush green forests of the north of the country, due to the fact that most time of the year, the atmosphere of this forest consist of an ocean of clouds, it is known for its name.
It is located 50km north east of Shahrood. The forest is full of steep hills, and a river runs in there. Summer is the best time to see the forest, and the morning is the best time to take photos.
Two or 3 hours left to the sunset, with temperature fall, clouds rush into the forest. They are so thick that it seems you are walking on the clouds, and then you may not be able to see a meter ahead of you. It is what happens often in the Jangal-e Abr in Shahrood. Jangal-e Abr (Cloud Forest) is one of the oldest and most beautiful forests in Iran. It is the continuum of northern forests in the south of Alborz mountain range.
Extent of cloud forest region and the diameter of more than 13 thousand hectare and type of Caspian forests or is Hyrcanian. Virgin cloud forest has remained of the third geological period and Old trees in this forest reach to 4000 years. Yew trees in the forest anymore cloud height; diameter and area are unique in the world. Cloud forests are among the forests of rare ecotone.
In addition to natural beauty, uncommon features such as the existence of different species of woody plants, along with very rare herbaceous species such as beech, oak, alder, elm, wild cherry, yew, linden and etc. have made these lands like a living museum which attracts domestic and foreign tourists.
Jangal-e Abr: A Realm of Clouds and Enchanting Splendor
Nestled amidst the lush green foothills of the Alborz Mountains, 50 kilometers northeast of the picturesque city of Shahrud, lies a mesmerizing natural wonder: the Cloud Forest, or Jangal-e Abr. This extraordinary expanse of emerald greenery, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unique ecosystem, captivates visitors with its ethereal atmosphere and abundance of rare plant and animal species.
A Tapestry of Sylvan Splendor
The Cloud Forest, with its expansive 35,000 hectares, is a continuation of the northern forests that extend southward along the Alborz Mountain range. This vast expanse of greenery is classified as a Caspian forest, also known as Hyrcanian, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ecological significance and rich biodiversity.
A Haven for Rare Species
The Cloud Forest is home to a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region. Among the forest’s most notable inhabitants are the yew trees, towering giants that reach heights of over 40 meters and boast diameters of up to 5 meters. These ancient trees, remnants of the third geological period, stand as silent sentinels of the forest’s enduring beauty.
The forest also harbors a wealth of other plant species, including beeches, oaks, alders, elms, wild cherries, lindens, and a variety of herbaceous plants. These diverse flora provide habitat for a multitude of animals, from deer, wild boar, and wolves to a variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
An Ethereal Realm of Clouds
The Cloud Forest’s most captivating feature is undoubtedly its ethereal beauty, where the boundaries between the forest and the sky seem to blur. The dense canopy of trees, reaching towards the heavens, often merges with the surrounding clouds, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of green and white. This unique phenomenon, known as cloud inversion, occurs when warm air from the valley below rises up and meets the cooler air in the mountains, resulting in a layer of clouds that settle just above the forest’s treetops.
A Journey Through Time
As visitors wander through the Cloud Forest’s tranquil paths, they embark on a journey through time, immersing themselves in the ancient history and enduring beauty of this natural masterpiece. The lush greenery, the towering trees, and the enchanting presence of clouds create an atmosphere of serenity and wonder, a place where one can truly connect with nature’s grandeur.
A Symbol of Environmental Resilience
The Cloud Forest stands as a testament to the resilience of nature, showcasing the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of preserving biodiversity. It is a place of profound beauty, a sanctuary for rare species, and a symbol of Iran’s rich natural heritage.
