Ali Sadr Cave near Hamedan
Underground pools, mineral formations and boat visits
Ali Sadr Cave is a flooded limestone cave near the village of Ali Sadr in Hamedan Province. A visit combines walking through lit passages with a boat ride through underground chambers.
The boat section lets you see where the passages widen into pools and narrow between rock walls. Look for stalactites hanging from the ceiling and mineral deposits along the waterline.
The cave passes through limestone and schist that include Jurassic rocks. A geological study of the area describes how water dissolved carbonate rock along fractures. The age of the rock tells us when the rock formed. The timing and exact process of cave formation are less certain.
The cave appears on Iran’s UNESCO Tentative List, where the nomination describes its flooded chambers and mineral formations.
The published geology describes both boat and walking sections. Ask at the entrance which circuit is available and where you will board and leave the boat.
From the boat, look for bands of calcite on the walls. Researchers have studied deposits above today’s waterline as evidence of earlier lake levels.
Contents
Location of Ali Sadr Cave
The entrance is by Ali Sadr village, roughly 75 kilometres northwest of Hamedan. Visit Iran describes the approach via Kabudarahang and the Nojeh junction.
Best Time to Visit Ali Sadr Cave
Spring and summer are convenient for combining the cave with time outdoors around Hamedan. Bring a layer for the cool passages.
A Look at the Past and History of Ali Sadr Cave
Local residents knew the cave before the modern surveys. Visit Iran records an exploration by Hamedan climbers and cavers in 1962–63.
The entrance was later widened and public visits began in 1975, according to Visit Iran.
Important Notes About Ali Sadr Cave
The passages use artificial lighting. The boat and walking sections meet at boarding points, so follow staff instructions as you move between them. Check the photography rules at the entrance.
Accommodations Near Ali Sadr Cave
Staying in Hamedan lets you combine the cave with sights in the city. Allow time for the road journey each way if you visit as a day trip.
BOOK ONLINE
Iran Hotels Online
Visiting Hours for Ali Sadr Cave
Confirm the current opening hours, last boat departure and ticket arrangements before leaving Hamedan. If steps or boarding are a concern, ask what the available circuit requires.
Read More
