Andimeshk Travel Guide; A City with Amazing Rivers and Dams
Plan your perfect getaway in the beauty of Andimeshk
It’s a pity to travel to the south and not visit the tourist attractions of Khuzestan Province and its remarkable cities. Andimeshk is one of the beautiful and attractive cities of Khuzestan, known as the gateway to Khuzestan.
Andimeshk’s attractions include natural sites, historical places, mausoleums, and entertainment centers. This city, with its ancient trees, becomes one of the most scenic spots in Iran during spring. Join SURFIRAN to get to know Andimeshk’s attractions better.
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Natural Attractions in Andimeshk
Andimeshk often enjoys mild weather due to its location on the lush slopes of the Zagros Mountains. The city’s temperature, especially in late winter and early spring, is quite pleasant. During summer, the days are warm, but the nights are cool. Andimeshk has plenty of natural attractions and scenic landscapes.
Additionally, the presence of permanent and seasonal water sources like the Dez, Karnas, Damdam, Mazo, Balarud, Golan Mort, Qalasura, Zal, and Karkheh rivers create stunning views in this area. Here are some of Andimeshk’s most important natural attractions.
Tangowan Mountain
Tangowan Mountain is one of Andimeshk’s attractions, stretching from the northwest to the southeast of the city, parallel to the Zagros range. The northern Balarud is located near the northwest of this mountain. Tangowan’s height reaches 600 meters at its highest point, with one side connecting the peak to a deep cliff and the other side continuing southeast with a gentle slope.
In the southeast of Tangowan, you can see the Silaan Rock formations leading down to the deep valleys of the Dez River, Mokhtar Castle, and Cham Sabz. This 10,000-year-old mountain, a gateway to the city of Van during the Elamite era, contains remarkable relics from hunting, Mithraism, and Zoroastrian periods. The road to Tangowan is paved and straightforward.
You can easily travel from Andimeshk to Tangowan by car. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Andimeshk and then take a taxi to Tangowan Mountain. The good news is that visiting Tangowan is free and doesn’t require an entry ticket.
As mentioned, one side of this mountain is completely rocky and smooth, which attracts rock climbers. Many enthusiasts climb the rocky walls of Tangowan with the necessary safety equipment. Tangowan is also known as Chehel Pa and is a protected area where hunting is prohibited. If you’re lucky, you might spot mountain goats leaping on the rocks or resting under the jujube, almond, and palm trees.
Address of Tangowan Mountain
Tangowan Mountain is located 19 kilometers north of Andimeshk, in Khuzestan Province, in an area known as Bam Andimeshk.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Restrooms and ample parking make visiting this area easier. For climbing enthusiasts, the rocky walls of Tangowan offer a challenge. Remember to bring the necessary safety equipment as the cliffs and deep valleys can be very dangerous.
Nature of Dez Dam
Dez Dam is one of Andimeshk’s most remarkable attractions, not only for its impressive structure but also for its surrounding greenery and mild climate. To reach the scenic Dez Dam, drive towards Andimeshk, take the ring road, and after 26 kilometers and 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at this magnificent dam.
The good news is that Andimeshk has a train station. For those preferring to travel by air, the nearest airport to Dez Dam is in Dezful, on the way to Andimeshk. From the airport, you can take a taxi and reach the dam after 39 kilometers. Alternatively, you can stay in one of Dezful or Andimeshk’s accommodations and head to the dam at your convenience. Visiting Dez Dam and its lake is free every day of the week. During holidays, especially Nowruz, you can enjoy the recreational facilities from 9 AM to 5 PM.
The lake behind the dam, known as Dez Lake, is one of the country’s largest artificial lakes, housing several islands and creating a beautiful landscape. The dam and lake, also known as Shahyun Lake, are surrounded by wild almond and jujube trees.
Address of Dez Dam
Dez Dam is located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Andimeshk, in Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Swimming, boating, nature walks, picnics, staying at lakeside lodges, camping, and watching colorful fish in the water are some of the best recreational activities in this area. With various lodges and camps around the dam, you’ll have easy access to restrooms and parking.
Artificial Lake of Karkheh Dam
The Karkheh Dam’s artificial lake is another of Andimeshk’s attractions, resting majestically behind the largest earth dam in Iran and the Middle East, making the southwestern foothills of the Zagros more pleasant.
In late winter, early spring, and autumn, you can enjoy beautiful views and mild weather around the largest artificial lake in Iran. Five kilometers from the Karkheh Dam Lake is the Kamuna Recreational Area.
Restaurants along the road to the dam offer good spots for relaxing and enjoying delicious food. Note that swimming in the Karkheh Dam Lake is prohibited and very dangerous. Instead, explore nearby attractions such as the Dez Castle, Hosseini Castle, Balarud Bridge, and Saihe Bridge, located 30 to 37 kilometers from the Karkheh Dam Lake.
Address of Karkheh Dam’s Artificial Lake
The artificial lake is located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Andimeshk, in Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
The Kamuna Recreational Area, five kilometers from Karkheh Lake, provides access to restrooms, parking, and a prayer room. Nature walks and spending time at the Kamuna Recreational Area and nearby garden restaurants are the best activities in this area.
Mangerah Village and Tourist Area
Mangerah Village and Tourist Area is another of Andimeshk’s attractions, known for its mountainous climate. This area is only 50 kilometers from Andimeshk, connected by a paved and smooth road.
From Tehran, you can reach Andimeshk by car, bus, or train. Then, take the Andimeshk-Pol Dokhtar road, pass Tek Takab, and take the first exit towards Bidrobeh to reach Mangerah. You’ll enjoy the scenic landscapes and fresh air along this winding road, especially in spring.
Address of Mangerah Village and Tourist Area
Mangerah Village is located 50 kilometers north of Andimeshk, in Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
In Mangerah Village, you can easily access restrooms and parking spots. Nature walks, exploring historical sites, and enjoying the pleasant climate and surrounding views are the main activities in this area.
Chehel Pa Area
The Chehel Pa protected area is another of Andimeshk’s attractions, requiring a full day to explore. This stunning landscape, located near Dez Dam, is only 15 kilometers from Andimeshk.
Enjoy the lush valleys, majestic heights, and scenic meadows of Chehel Pa. To reach this protected area, head to Andimeshk, take the Dez Dam road, and then the dirt road to Qaleh Qasem or Pamenar village to reach Tangowan Mountain and Chehel Pa area.
If you enjoy swimming and water sports, you can swim in Dez Lake. Groups in the area also offer water skiing or kite surfing experiences. In short, a trip to Chehel Pa guarantees a good time. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this area.
Address of Chehel Pa Area
The Chehel Pa protected area is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk County, along the road leading to Dez Dam.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Accommodation and use of villas near the dam, nature walks, swimming, water skiing, kite surfing, hiking, and rock climbing are some of the amenities and recreational activities in this protected area.
Historical Attractions in Andimeshk
Andimeshk, being close to the ancient city of Lor, has many historical relics. If you are interested in old places, be sure to visit Andimeshk’s historical attractions. Here are some of the most popular historical sites in Andimeshk.
Sihah Bridge
Sihah Bridge is one of Andimeshk’s historical attractions, located eight kilometers along the road from Andimeshk to Shush. Visiting this place is free and only takes one or two hours. Built during the Safavid era, it is part of Iran’s cultural heritage. You can easily reach this bridge by taking a paved road from Andimeshk.
Address of Sihah Bridge
Sihah Bridge is located eight kilometers along the Andimeshk-Shush road in Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
There are no specific amenities or recreational facilities around Sihah Bridge. However, you can enjoy the magnificent view of this historical monument and its surrounding nature.
Balarud Bridge
Balarud Bridge is another of Andimeshk’s attractions, located 27 kilometers north of the city in Balarud village, on the river of the same name. This ancient structure dates back to the Sassanian era and is listed as a cultural heritage site in Iran.
Address of Balarud Bridge
Balarud Bridge is located 27 kilometers north of Andimeshk, in Balarud village, Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
There are no specific amenities or recreational facilities around Balarud Bridge. However, its proximity to Balarud village provides access to basic amenities like restrooms and a prayer room.
Rezeh Castle
While introducing Andimeshk’s attractions, I must mention Rezeh Castle. This historical fort, dating back to the Safavid era, was a resting place for travelers going from Khorramabad to Andimeshk. Fortunately, today a paved road passes by, making it easily accessible.
Rezeh Castle, known by various names such as Razeman Castle and Razman Castle, is located half a kilometer southeast of Rezeh Village. Visiting this historical attraction is free and takes half a day at most.
Address of Rezeh Castle
Rezeh Castle is located 46 kilometers along the Andimeshk-Pol Dokhtar road, half a kilometer from Rezeh Village in Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Rezeh Castle and its surroundings do not have specific amenities or recreational facilities. However, its proximity to Rezeh Village provides access to basic amenities.
Kuran Castle
Kuran Castle is one of Andimeshk’s historical attractions, listed as a national heritage site from the Safavid era. The locals also know this fort by names such as Mansar Castle and Koru Castle. This historical monument was once a border fort of the Lur Atabakan but later became part of the Papi Tribe’s territory.
Address of Kuran Castle
Kuran Castle is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk County, Alvar Warmiri District, Chineh Rouzeh Village.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Since Kuran Castle is in Chineh Rouzeh Village, you can access basic amenities such as restrooms, a prayer room, and a supermarket.
Sarqala Fortress
Sarqala Fortress, also known as Emir Saif Shrine, is another of Andimeshk’s attractions dating back to the Elamite period. It is located in the foothills of Siah Mountain, along the road from Jaa Erdu Village to Mankerah. This small ancient structure, built from uncut stones, lies within an old cemetery and is listed as a cultural heritage site in Iran.
Address of Sarqala Fortress
Sarqala Fortress is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk County, Alvar Warmiri District, Qilab Rural District, near Amir Saif Village.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
While the fortress and its surroundings do not have specific amenities or recreational facilities, its proximity to Amir Saif Village provides access to basic amenities.
Hosseini Castle
Hosseini Castle is another old caravanserai on the Andimeshk-Pol Dokhtar road, near Rezeh Castle. The access road is paved and smooth. You can visit Hosseini Castle without needing a ticket or paying an entrance fee. This historical monument also dates back to the Safavid era and is built from uncut stones and Saruji mortar.
Address of Hosseini Castle
Hosseini Castle is located 46 kilometers along the Andimeshk-Pol Dokhtar road, in Rezeh Village, Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
As Hosseini Castle is located within Rezeh Village, you can use the village’s amenities.
Railway Museum
At the Railway Museum, you can learn about the history of railway construction in this area. Currently, only the first phase of the museum has been inaugurated, showcasing interesting photos of the construction stages of the Andimeshk railway line and the equipment used.
The museum is open every day from 9 AM to 8 PM, and visiting it takes one to two hours. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the entry fee online, but it shouldn’t be significant. If you visit the museum, please share your experience with us to update our information.
Address of Railway Museum
The Railway Museum is located on Railway Boulevard near Takht-e-Jamshid Passage, in Andimeshk, Khuzestan Province.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
The Railway Museum has parking and restrooms.
Mausoleums and Religious Attractions in Andimeshk
Just like most Iranians, the people of Andimeshk have a spiritual connection to the city’s mausoleums and religious sites. These places are also considered Andimeshk’s tourist attractions. Here are some religious sites that hold significance for the local people.
Shahzadeh Ahmad Mausoleum
Locals say that Shahzadeh Ahmad Mausoleum is the burial place of one of Imam Musa’s (A.S.) descendants. This shrine is located in a beautiful and scenic spot. To reach Shahzadeh Ahmad’s mausoleum, you must travel a winding and lush road, passing through the beautiful villages of Kalg Dehreh, Shirin Ab, Jaa Erdu, Sorkhkan, and Peyruvali.
The road to this mausoleum is narrow and dangerous, but recent efforts have been made to widen and secure it. However, be careful while traveling on this road. Visiting Shahzadeh Ahmad’s mausoleum takes less than an hour.
Address of Shahzadeh Ahmad Mausoleum
Shahzadeh Ahmad Mausoleum is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk, Alvar District, Hosseiniyeh Village.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Shahzadeh Ahmad Mausoleum has restrooms and parking.
Davood Khadem Mausoleum
The Davood Khadem Mausoleum is another of Andimeshk’s attractions from the post-Islamic period, listed as a national heritage site. Visiting this ancient mausoleum is free and takes a full day. This old and small mausoleum, built from stone and Saruji mortar, is located on a steep mountainside, making it challenging to access. However, it’s worth visiting if you’re in Andimeshk.
Address of Davood Khadem Mausoleum
Davood Khadem Mausoleum is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk County, Alvar Warmiri District, Qilab Rural District, 75 kilometers from Sheikh Village.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Unfortunately, there are no specific amenities or recreational facilities near the Davood Khadem Mausoleum.
Mahmood Ali Mausoleum
Mahmood Ali Mausoleum is an old mausoleum and a national heritage site built from stone and Saruji mortar during the middle centuries of the post-Islamic period. The conical dome of this mausoleum reaches a height of 8 meters. The Mahmood Ali Mausoleum is located in an old cemetery surrounded by ancient tombstones and Kufi inscriptions, making it easily accessible. Visiting this ancient mausoleum is free and takes 2-3 hours.
Address of Mahmood Ali Mausoleum
Mahmood Ali Mausoleum is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk County, Alvar Warmiri District, Mazo Rural District, Mahmood Ali Village.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Mahmood Ali Mausoleum has restrooms and parking.
Recreational Attractions in Andimeshk
Traveling isn’t complete without some fun. Whether you enjoy nature or history, you’ll likely still want to spend some time having fun. This helps reduce daily stress and creates memorable and enjoyable moments for you and your loved ones. Here are some recreational attractions in Andimeshk.
Valfajr Coastal Tourist Village
Valfajr Coastal Tourist Village is another of Andimeshk’s attractions, located on the Dez River’s shore and offering various recreational facilities. You can use different amusement park rides in Valfajr Amusement Park. If you enjoy carriage riding, cycling, or horseback riding, you’ll have a great time in this complex.
Several cafes, restaurants, and traditional teahouses serve delicious food, desserts, snacks, and drinks in this coastal village. The road to Valfajr Complex is paved and smooth.
Address of Valfajr Coastal Tourist Village
Valfajr Coastal Tourist Village is located in Khuzestan Province, Tehran-Shushtar Highway (Andimeshk-Dezful Ring Road), next to the Fourth Bridge, on the Dez River’s shore.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Valfajr Coastal Tourist Village offers various recreational facilities. Restrooms and parking are also available in this complex.
Mokhtar Castle Area
Mokhtar Castle Area is another recreational spot in Andimeshk. On its beautiful shore, you can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and various water sports. Visiting this area is free, but you’ll need to pay for boat rides or water skiing.
This attraction is covered with beautiful palm trees and various plants and shrubs. Several gazebos are installed in different parts of this area for tourists’ convenience. You can also bring your picnic basket and enjoy a picnic in the green space of Mokhtar Castle. Visiting hours are daily from 5 PM to 9 PM.
Address of Mokhtar Castle Area
Mokhtar Castle Coastal Resort is located in Khuzestan Province, Andimeshk County, Cham Golak Road, Jaa Erdu Camp Road, on the Dez River’s shore.
Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Mokhtar Castle Area offers amenities such as parking, restrooms, a teahouse, a restaurant, and various recreational activities like boating and water sports.
SURFIRAN’s Recommendations for a Trip to Andimeshk
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To enjoy Andimeshk’s attractions and have a unique trip, I recommend visiting during the cool and mild days of winter, early spring, and late autumn. Like other southern regions of Iran, Andimeshk has hot summers. However, note that the temperature difference between day and night in this city is significant in winter and autumn. So, bring warm clothes to avoid getting cold in the evening.
During your trip to Andimeshk, besides historical sites, take time to visit natural attractions and recreational areas. This way, you can satisfy different aspects of your interests.
If you plan to go rock climbing on Tangowan Mountain, bring the necessary equipment and plan your trip with friends and acquaintances skilled in this activity. If you visit Andimeshk’s tourist attractions, please share your experiences with SURFIRAN Magazine and other readers to help us all better understand this beautiful southern city.
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