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Winter is an ideal season for winter sports, and if you are a fan of skiing, this article is exactly for you. Iran is home to high, snow-covered mountain peaks, and fortunately, the country’s geographical location means that snowfall occurs across its colder regions—from the northernmost areas to the central plateau—during winter. When talking about the best ski resorts in Iran in winter, factors such as snow quality, skiing facilities and equipment, accessibility, and the overall skiing experience take center stage. Each resort has its own unique charm, and it is these distinctive qualities that set Iran’s ski resorts apart during the winter season.
According to winter tourism statistics, thousands of people take to mountainous roads every year solely to experience skiing in winter, with some even traveling from distant cities to reach these regions. These resorts are not just places for skiing; they feel like a breath of fresh air in the cold winter atmosphere. By the end of this article, you will be familiar with Iran’s ski resorts, their facilities, and access information, allowing you to choose the resort that suits you best. This guide helps you make a smart choice and enjoy Iran’s ski resorts in winter even more.
Good accessibility to resorts, improved facilities, and infrastructure development have all played an important role. Many ski resorts are located close to major cities, making day trips possible. In addition, the cost of skiing in Iran is lower compared to foreign destinations. For families, ski resorts have become safe and enjoyable recreational spaces. The presence of certified instructors, equipment rental services, and a variety of slopes makes skiing accessible for all skill levels.
Dizin Ski Resort is not only the most famous ski resort in Iran, but according to many experts and professional athletes, it is considered the most standard and best-equipped ski resort in Iran and even the Middle East. As Iran’s first international ski resort, Dizin has secured approval from the International Ski Federation (FIS), which has solidified its position among professional winter sports destinations.
One of the most important technical advantages of Dizin Ski Resort is its significant elevation difference. The highest point of the resort is around 3,600 meters, and its lowest point is close to 2,650 meters above sea level. This useful elevation difference, which reaches about 950 meters, directly impacts snow quality and durability, allowing Dizin to maintain ideal skiing conditions even in the final days of winter.
In terms of infrastructure, Dizin is considered one of the most well-equipped ski resorts in the country. This resort has one main cable car, about four chairlift lines, and more than seven surface lifts (including platter and T-bar lifts). Together, these lift facilities provide fast and easy access to different routes for skiers from beginners to professionals and minimize crowding at the resort.
It is important to note that Dizin is not only for professional skiers. A variety of recreational facilities have also been provided for families and general tourists. Activities such as tubing, snow play, Cable Cars, and walking in snowy areas have made Dizin an attractive destination for family trips during winter. For this reason, even people who do not intend to ski professionally can enjoy the winter atmosphere and recreational facilities of the resort.
Overall, the combination of international standards, suitable elevation difference, advanced equipment, and diverse recreational facilities has made Dizin Ski Resort the most complete and professional ski resort in Iran and one of the most prominent winter sports destinations in the region.
Dizin has the most extensive ski transportation network among Iran’s ski resorts:
Alborz Province, Dizin Village, Central Alborz Protected Area
Ski season: Usually, the best time to travel in terms of weather is from late December to late April.
Peak snow quality: January to March
In high-snowfall years, Dizin is one of the few ski resorts in Iran where skiing is even possible in spring.
🌐 | dizinskiresort.ir
☎️ | 02635215041
🆔 | dizin_ski_resort
His complex has 2 hotels and 19 cabins, offering tourists a different experience of staying in the heart of the mountains.
Shemshak Ski Resort is one of the oldest and most technical ski resorts in Iran and has a special place, particularly among professional and semi-professional skiers. This resort is located on the northeastern slopes of the Alborz mountain range and near Tehran, and due to its steep slopes, challenging routes, and fully athletic atmosphere, it has always been known as one of the most specialized ski resorts in the country.
Shemshak is the second international ski resort in Iran to receive approval from the International Ski Federation (FIS) and has hosted official competitions and training sessions for professional teams for many years. It is also a more accessible option for enjoying skiing on snow.
In terms of elevation difference, Shemshak Ski Resort also has notable conditions. The highest point of the resort is around 3,050 meters, and its lowest section is close to 2,550 meters above sea level. This elevation difference of about 500 meters, along with naturally steep slopes, creates fast and exciting routes that are ideal for ski training.
Due to the geographical location and cold climate of the region, snow quality in Shemshak is usually desirable, and on many winter days, suitable conditions for professional skiing are available. Night lighting of the slopes is also one of Shemshak’s unique features, making night skiing possible for enthusiasts, and its nighttime scenery is also very beautiful.
In terms of lift equipment, Shemshak Resort has standard and acceptable facilities that meet the needs of professional skiers. This complex includes:
These facilities provide quick access to different routes, and the resort’s focus is mainly on athletic and professional use.
Although the main focus of Shemshak is professional skiing, suitable welfare facilities have also been considered for tourists:
Geographical location: Shemshak is located in the Rudbar-e Qasran area, northeast of Tehran.
Suggested access route: East Tehran → Shahid Babaei Highway → Lashgarak Road → Fasham → Meygun → Jirud → Darbandsar → Shemshak
Best and easiest route: Lashgarak to Fasham and Shemshak route (Shemshak–Dizin and Shemshak–Chalus routes are often closed due to heavy snowfall).
Route length: About 57 kilometers from Lashgarak to Shemshak
The cost of tickets and use of facilities varies depending on weekdays and weather conditions:
Due to its proximity to Tehran, Shemshak is a very suitable option for one-day trips and weekend skiing.
🌐 | shemshakskiresort.ir
☎️ | 02126526912
🆔 | shemshak_ski_resort_official
Within the resort complex, there are fewer accommodation options compared to Dizin, but in the city of Shemshak and nearby areas such as Fasham and Meygun, various villas and accommodations are available.
Shemshak Ski Resort restaurant with a menu of hot foods suitable for cold weather
Cafes offering hot drinks such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
Darbandsar Ski Resort is located near Shemshak and is, in a way, a mini ski resort in the Rudbar-e Qasran region, situated a short distance from Shemshak Ski Resort. In terms of elevation, it is built at a higher altitude than Shemshak. This resort was established in 1981 and, as a private and well-equipped complex, has always tried to attract some of the skiers from the Shemshak area by upgrading its facilities.
The access route to Darbandsar Ski Resort is via Lashgarak Road and the Oshan–Fasham route. On Fasham Road, shortly after the Darud area, you reach a junction; the right route leads to Shemshak, and the left route, after about 12 kilometers, takes you to Darbandsar Ski Resort. Due to the proximity of these two resorts to Tehran, Darbandsar and Shemshak are popular options for one-day and weekend trips.
🌐 | darbandsarski.ir
☎️ | 02126525175
🆔 | darbandsarski
Tochal Ski Resort is perhaps considered one of the most convenient ski resorts in Iran, and due to its location on the northern slopes of Tehran, it holds a special place among winter sports enthusiasts. As the closest ski resort to the capital, it is the first choice for many skiers, professional athletes, and even foreign tourists. With its high altitude, modern equipment, and easy access, Tochal has played an important role in the development of winter sports in Iran.
One of the most important technical features of Tochal Ski Resort is its very high elevation above sea level. The seventh station of Tochal is located at an altitude of about 3,740 meters, and its ski slope is considered one of the highest ski runs in the world. This high elevation has resulted in good snow quality on many winter days, and even in years with average snowfall, skiing is possible. The significant elevation difference along the ski routes creates an exciting and professional experience for skiers.
In addition to professional skiing, Tochal Ski Resort offers a variety of recreational activities for the general public. The famous Tochal cable car, which is considered one of the longest cable car lines in the world, is itself a major tourist attraction and allows visitors to enjoy the mountain views of Tehran throughout the year. In winter, activities such as snow play, tubing, walking in snowy areas, and photography of snowy landscapes have made Tochal a popular destination for families.
In terms of infrastructure, Tochal Ski Resort has standard equipment, including Cable Cars, surface lifts, and designated routes for beginner to semi-professional skiers. Although Tochal is smaller than Dizin in size, the quality of its routes and quick access make it an ideal option for short-term and training skiing.
Overall, the unique geographical location, high altitude, easy access from Tehran, and diverse recreational facilities have made Tochal Ski Resort one of the most important and popular ski resorts in Iran, a resort that is attractive to both professional skiers and general tourists.
As a four-season recreational and sports complex, Tochal offers various facilities to visitors:
Tehran, Velenjak, end of Yaman Street, Tochal Recreational–Sports Complex
Ski season: Usually from early January to late March (depending on snowfall)
Peak snow quality: January and February
Due to its very high elevation, in some years, Tochal Ski Resort becomes operational earlier than other resorts around Tehran, but weather conditions and wind directly affect cable car operations.
🌐 | tochal.org
☎️ | 0212720
🆔 | tochalcomplex
Tochal Hotel, located at the seventh station of the cable car, provides the opportunity to stay at a high altitude and experience an overnight stay in a mountain environment.
Abali Ski Resort, as the oldest ski resort in Iran, holds a special place in the history of winter sports in the country. This resort, which began its activity in 1332, was the first complex to introduce skiing in Iran in an official and organized manner and is still considered one of the most accessible ski resorts for residents of Tehran. Its proximity to the capital has made Abali a popular option for winter day trips.
In terms of geographical location, Abali Ski Resort is situated on the southern slopes of the Alborz mountain range at an elevation of approximately 2,400 to 2,650 meters above sea level. This elevation provides suitable conditions for snowfall in winter, although snow retention here is lower compared to higher-altitude resorts such as Dizin. However, in years with heavy snowfall, Abali also offers acceptable snow coverage and remains active even during the cold final days of winter.
Abali Ski Resort is mainly known as an educational and recreational destination. Its shorter routes and gentler slopes have made it a suitable choice for beginner skiers, learners, and families. In addition to skiing, activities such as tubing, sledding, snow play, and walking in snowy areas have turned Abali into an attractive place for non-professional tourists.
In terms of infrastructure, although Abali has more limited equipment compared to more modern resorts, it still meets the basic needs of skiers. The presence of chairlifts and surface lifts provides easy access to the slopes, and crowding is usually less than at larger resorts around Tehran, which is considered an advantage for beginners.
Abali Ski Resort offers facilities suitable for educational and recreational use:
Tehran Province, Damavand County, Haraz Road, Abali City, Abali Ski Resort
🌐 | Not available
🆔 | pist_eski_abali
Within Abali city and along Haraz Road, there are many accommodations, guesthouses, and rental villas available. Many tourists also choose Abali as a one-day trip from Tehran.
Local restaurants around the resort: Serving simple and warm food suitable for cold weather.
Buffets inside the resort: For hot drinks, snacks, and light meals.
Abali Ski Resort, with its friendly atmosphere, reasonable cost, and easy access, is an ideal choice for experiencing recreational and educational skiing near Tehran.
Sirch Ski Resort is one of the most unique attractions of Kerman, located in the highlands of the mountain ranges surrounding the city. Due to its location in the heart of a desert region, it is considered one of the country’s geographical wonders and one of the most unique winter sports sites in Iran. This resort is located on the slopes of Mount Jaftan in the Sirch area and, with its magnificent natural landscapes and snow cover in winter, has attracted tourists and winter sports enthusiasts.
Sirch Ski Resort is located in Kerman Province, on the Kerman–Bam road, near Sirch village. The resort is about 40 to 50 kilometers (approximately 30 to 40 minutes by car) from Kerman city center, and the access route passes through Sirch Road and after the Sirch Tunnel.
From Kerman city center, enter the Kerman–Bam road. You will drive approximately 45 to 50 kilometers on this route, which takes about 1 hour. After reaching Sirch, directional signs will guide you toward Sirch Ski Resort. The distance from Sirch town to the resort is about 10 to 15 kilometers, which must be traveled via a mountainous and secondary road.
Sirch is a natural ski resort, and unlike the equipped resorts in the Alborz Mountains and other parts of the country, it lacks advanced facilities and standard lift systems such as Cable Cars or official chairlifts. Snow cover forms naturally during cold seasons, and ski routes are mostly natural and unorganized. Some basic facilities around the resort, such as an official parking area, buffet, and full sanitary services, may be limited or unavailable; therefore, it is recommended to bring necessary equipment and supplies with you.
In addition to skiing on snow, the Sirch area itself has many natural attractions that can make your trip multi-dimensional:
Chelgard (Koohrang) Ski Resort is one of the most well-known ski resorts in Iran, located in the heart of the Zagros mountain range, with a long history in the country’s winter sports. This resort was built in 1354 near the first Koohrang Tunnel and, as Iran’s second ski resort, has played an important role in the development of skiing in western and southwestern regions of the country. Chelgard Ski Resort is located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, about 85 kilometers from Shahrekord. Its proximity to the city of Chelgard and its location in a mountainous area with snowy winters have made it popular among skiing enthusiasts and winter tourists since its early years. The length of Chelgard Ski Resort is about 800 meters, with an approximate slope of 20 percent, making it suitable for beginner to semi-professional skiers.
Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, 85 kilometers from Shahrekord, after Chelgard city, adjacent to the first Koohrang Tunnel
🆔 | ski. koohrang
Considering the cold climate of the region, the best time for recreation and tourism in this area is:
You can reach Chelgeard Ski Resort in two ways:
In Chelgard city and around the resort, food facilities are limited but available:
Now it is the turn of Mashhad residents to enjoy skiing in the Binalud mountain range. Shirbad Peak, as the highest point in the Binalud mountain range, is known as the Roof of Khorasan. This peak, with a high elevation, is located in the northeast of the country and on the northern slopes of the beautiful valleys of Zoshk and Dowlatabad, Chenaran. In the heart of this magnificent mountain, one of the most modern and best-equipped ski resorts in Iran, called Shirbad Ski Resort, Mashhad, has begun its activity.
If you are interested in winter sports or looking for an exciting and family-friendly destination near Mashhad, Shirbad Ski Resort is an ideal choice. This complex, to create a safe and standard recreational environment, was built in 2009 on a 50-hectare plot of land in the Binalud heights and, with a cost of more than 4 billion tomans, has become one of the winter tourism hubs of the region. Shirbad Resort, with a length of 1,200 meters and an elevation close to 3,100 meters (above the permanent snow line), is the highest part in this area.
From late December to mid-April
This resort is usually ready for operation from the second or third ten-day period of December and remains active until mid-April (depending on snow conditions).
Peak snowfall: January and February provide the best snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
Shirbad Ski Resort is located about 40 kilometers northwest of Mashhad on the Mashhad–Chenaran road. After Chenaran, there is a mountainous and clear route toward Zoshk village and then Shirbad Resort. In snowy seasons, please make sure of the road conditions and the need for snow chains. Traveling to Shirbad is better with off-road vehicles and special buses. After reaching this resort, your distance to the resort is the size of an accommodation.
🌐 | Not available
☎️ | 05137611335
🆔@ | shirbad_ski_resort
This complex, with modern infrastructure and diverse services, can meet the various needs of tourists:
If skiing in mid-spring is still an attractive sport for you, Alvares Ski Resort is the best choice. Alvares Ski Resort is one of the best ski resorts in Iran, located in Ardabil Province near Alvares village. This resort is very famous due to heavy snow and a long ski season (from December to mid-May) and is known as the longest ski season in Iran. The elevation of this resort above sea level is about 3,200 meters, and it has an excellent view of Sabalan Peak. Near this resort, there are many hot springs for treatment. The presence of a chairlift in this area has helped tourism in this region.
The golden ski season in Alvares is from January to mid-March. Peak snow quality and ideal conditions in this season:
To reach Alvares Ski Resort, from the Ardabil–Sarein road, take the secondary road toward Alvares.
From the parking lot to the resort, you have about a 5-minute walk.
The longest ski resort in Iran, with about 3 kilometers in length
Nesar Ski Resort, Bijar, is one of the prominent winter attractions of Kurdistan Province, located on the outskirts of Bijar city and on the heights of Nesar, and with an area of about 112 hectares, it is considered one of the first urban ski resorts in Iran. This unique location has made access to the resort very easy so that tourists can use its facilities without traveling long mountainous routes.
The length of the main route of the resort is about 900 meters, and its width is close to 120 meters, which provides suitable conditions for beginner and semi-professional skiers. Nesar Ski Resort came into operation after its construction was completed in 2009, and since then, it has become one of the most popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts in the west of the country.
One of the distinctive features of this resort is the possibility of skiing on snow in winter and grass skiing in warm seasons; a capability that has turned Nesar Bijar into a four-season complex and distinguishes it from many ski resorts in the country. This feature has made it possible to use the sports and recreational environment of the resort even when there is no snowfall. It should be noted that this resort is temporarily closed.
The welfare facilities of Nesar Ski Resort are not limited to the ski run. The presence of a chairlift for ease of movement, a restaurant with a beautiful view of Bijar city, parking, and a resting area are among the services that are provided to tourists at a reasonable cost. Also, the presence of walking paths and natural views around has turned this area into a suitable place for families and nature enthusiasts.
The access route to Nesar Ski Resort, Bijar, is also very simple. To reach this complex, it is enough to travel about 142 kilometers from Sanandaj toward Bijar. After entering Bijar city, enter Taleghani Street, and after passing Mahdieh town, you will easily reach Nesar Ski Resort.
🌐 | Not available
☎️ | 09011035303
🆔 | @ski_kordestan
If you traveled to Bijar, it is suggested that in addition to visiting Nesar Ski Resort, you also visit other historical and cultural sights of this city; attractions such as:
each of which displays part of the historical identity of this region.
In terms of accommodation, there are various options near the resort and around Bijar. Accommodations such as:
are among the popular choices of tourists. In addition, in the Nesar complex itself, a two-star hotel called Bam-e Iran has been built, which, with good access to the resort, provides a comfortable stay and the opportunity to watch the starry sky of Bijar nights for travelers.
Khoshaku Ski Resort, Urmia, is one of the most well-known ski resorts in northwest Iran, located about 30 kilometers west of Urmia city in the mountainous region of Razhan, near Khoshaku village. Due to its high altitude, untouched nature, and unique winter landscapes, this resort hosts skiing and snow activity enthusiasts from Urmia and nearby cities every year.
Khoshaku Ski Resort is located at an approximate elevation of 2,800 meters above sea level, and with a length of about 1,200 meters and an area close to 50,000 square meters, it provides suitable conditions for beginner to semi-professional skiers. The standard slope of the routes, suitable snow quality in winter, and distance from urban crowds are among the most important advantages of this resort.
The main activity of this complex is skiing on snow, but Khoshaku is not limited to professional skiing.
are among other entertainments that families and tourists can enjoy. Due to its open and calm space, this resort is a suitable option for those who want to have their first skiing experience in a safe and quiet environment.
To reach Khoshaku Ski Resort, Urmia, you need to head west of this city. The distance from the resort to the center of Urmia city is about 30 kilometers, and depending on road and weather conditions, the route usually takes 45 minutes to one hour.
Suggested access route:
Despite its simplicity, Khoshaku Ski Resort provides acceptable facilities for visitors. Three chairlift devices for transporting skiers and one training lift for beginners are active in this complex. Also, the possibility of renting ski equipment at a reasonable price is provided so that people who do not have personal equipment can also easily use the resort. Rest stations, a warm space to relieve fatigue, designated ski routes, and basic welfare facilities have provided suitable conditions for spending a full winter day.
The best time to visit Khoshaku Ski Resort is usually from late December to late March, when snowfall reaches its highest level, and snow quality is in ideal condition for skiing.
Poladkaf Ski Resort is one of the highest and best ski resorts in southern Iran and, as the largest ski resort in Fars Province, holds a special place in winter tourism in this region. This resort officially began its activity in the 2000s, and due to its special geographical location, it has played an important role in expanding winter sports in the central and southern parts of Iran. This resort is located on the slopes of the Dena mountain range, and its elevation above sea level is about 2,850 to more than 3,200 meters. This high elevation has caused Poladkaf, compared to many resorts in the country, to have colder winters and more stable snow cover.
Due to its location in the southern Zagros heights, Poladkaf benefits from natural snowfall in winter. In high-snowfall years, the snow cover of this resort is of very good quality, and it is usually active from early winter to late March. The lower temperatures compared to resorts around Shiraz cause the snow to melt later and skiing conditions to be preserved for a longer period.
In addition to skiing, this resort has provided various recreational facilities for winter tourists: skiing and snowboarding, tubing, snow play, and photography in snowy mountain landscapes are among the most common activities in this area.
🌐 | Not available
☎️ | 07116353244
🆔 | pooladkaf_skiresort
In terms of infrastructure, Poladkaf Ski Resort is considered one of the most well-equipped resorts in the south of the country:
Usually, from December to March is the best time to visit Poladkaf Ski Resort due to suitable snow quality, and the resort remains active until late winter.
Before traveling to ski resorts, paying attention to a few essential points is very important: carefully checking the weather conditions, the amount of snowfall, and whether the resort and its equipment are active; making sure your vehicle is ready for snowy and mountainous routes and bringing snow chains; choosing warm, layered, and waterproof clothing along with suitable goggles, gloves, and a hat; considering your physical ability and skill level when choosing ski routes; and fully observing safety rules and the recommendations of resort staff. It is also better to have proper timing for departure and return, and be prepared in advance for weekend crowds. Observing these simple but important points will make your trip safer, more organized, and more enjoyable, and you will be able to use the snowy atmosphere and winter activities with more peace of mind.
If we want to take a comparative look at the best ski resorts in Iran, the differences are more related to geographical location, the skier’s skill level, facilities, and the type of experience each tourist is looking for, rather than being about “better or worse.”
Among these resorts, Dizin, with international standards, diverse routes, and high snow durability, is the first choice for professional skiers and those looking for a complete and multi-day experience. Shemshak, with steeper slopes and a more technical atmosphere, is more favored by professionals and, compared to Dizin, offers more excitement. In contrast, Tochal, due to its unmatched proximity to Tehran, is an ideal option for short-term skiing and one-day plans, although the extent and variety of its routes are not as extensive as Dizin.
Resorts such as Abali and Sirch, Kerman, have more educational and recreational uses and are considered suitable options for beginners, families, and those looking for a simpler and lower-cost experience. Although these resorts have more limited facilities, their easy access and friendly atmosphere are considered an important advantage.
In the west and northwest of the country, resorts such as Koohrang, Chelgerd, Bijar, Kurdistan, and Khoshaku, Urmia, due to their location in the heights of the Zagros and Azerbaijan, are very attractive in terms of natural snow cover and winter landscapes. These resorts are more suitable for tourists who, in addition to skiing, are interested in winter nature tourism and experiencing pristine spaces. In eastern and northeastern Iran, Shirbad, Mashhad, with high elevation and stable cold, is considered one of the snowiest resorts in the country, while Alvares, Ardabil, with high elevation and a longer ski season, is a serious choice for skiing enthusiasts in northwest Iran.
But in the end, it is not possible to introduce one resort as the “absolute best option.” Choosing a ski destination completely depends on the skill level, route distance, travel duration, budget, and the type of experience expected by the tourist; some are looking for excitement and professional standards, some prefer comfort and quick access, and some want the experience of snowy nature and quietness. The best ski resort in Iran is the place that matches the travel style and personal expectations of each tourist the most.
