The special location of the Iranian Plateau between the Alps and Himalayas has led to vast folds in this area, creating the Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges. These mountain ranges include many tall mountains with the tallest being Mount Damavand with 5610 meters of altitude. Mount Damavand is the most prominent peak in Iran and the Middle East and the tallest volcano in Asia. The average altitude of the rest of the mountains in Alborz and Zagros is around 4000 meters. These mighty mountains are covered in snow for most of the year.
The unique location of Iran and the elevation of the Iranian Plateau from the sea level have given it a unique and diverse climate. Iran is one of the few countries in the world with four seasons. The temperature difference between the hottest and coldest spots in the country may reach up to 50 Celsius degrees during winter. For instance, the inhabitants of Shahrekord cope with the bitter coldness at -30 degrees while people living in Ahwaz experience summer weather.
The climate of Iran is divided into 3 categories: the climate of the north of Iran causes hot and humid summers and moderate winters while the western and northwestern parts of the country experience moderate summers and freezing winters and the southern coast has hot summers and moderate winters.
Spending the winter in Iran can be an exhilarating experience; therefore, the popularity of this amazing country as a winter destination has been on the rise in the past few years. The possibility to enjoy exciting winter sports such as off-piste and on-piste skiing, ski touring and ice climbing in northern Iran as well as aquatic activities such as diving and swimming on the sunny shores of the Persian Gulf and exploring the sandy central desert make spending the winter holidays in Iran more appealing.
Ski resorts in Iran
Skiing in Iran goes back to less than 100 years ago. In 1945, the national ski federation was founded in Iran and skiing became an official sport after the federation’s recognition by the International ski federation in 1956.
Due to the mountainous geography of the country, there are many suitable places for skiing in Iran. Later on, these locations were discovered one by one and ski resorts were built in some of them. Most of the top Iran ski resorts are located near Tehran, giving ski enthusiasts a chance to have a multi-purpose Iran trip.
Skiing in Iran
Top ski resorts in Iran
Abali ski resort
Abali ski resort is the first resort in Iran equipped with chairlifts. The chairlift system was installed in 1954; however, ski enthusiasts began skiing in this resort long before that time. Abali ski resort is the birthplace of modern skiing in Iran. Today this ski resort mostly attracts beginners as there are more professional resorts for professional and semi-professional skiers to enjoy.
Abali ski resort
Dizin ski resort
Dizin ski resort is the first and most important ski resort in Iran and the Middle East to be chosen for international competitions. It is located north of the mountains near Tehran (Gajereh region), 123 km away from the city taking Chalus Road and 71 km away by Shemshak Road. In 1970, the first chairlift system was installed in Dizin ski resort and other machines were installed later on. Skiers can enjoy skiing from mid-November to mid-May in this grand resort. In addition, grass skiing is available in Dizin resort during summer. The grass skiing field is 650 meters long and hosts international grass skiing competitions yearly.
Dizin ski resort
Shemshak ski resort
The international Shemshak ski resort is another one of the ski resorts located near Tehran. This ski resort is located 57 km northeast of the capital and is accessible via Lashagark-Fasham and Karaj-Gachasar (summer only) routes.
The highest point of the resort is 3050 higher than the sea level and the lowest has 2550 meters of elevation. Shemshak ski resort is generally steeper than Darbandsar and Dizin resorts.
Shemshak ski resort
Tochal ski resort
Located on Tochal summit, Tochal ski resort is the highest ski resort in the world and one of the best ski resorts in Tehran. It is accessible by the cable car line starting from the foothills of the mountain. This cable car line is one of the longest worldwide. The ski resort starts just below the summit (3850 m) and ends at the hotel (3550m). It has two chairlift lines and is 1200 meters long. The hotel located at the end of the resort has turned Tochal ski resort into an interesting attraction. As it is located at more than 3500 meters of altitude, this resort is one of the first ones to be covered by snow. Therefore, skiers often begin their early training and skiing in this resort. In addition, Tochal ski resort receives less sunlight compared to the other ones as it is located north of the summit, making it suitable for skiing almost 7 months a year.
Tochal ski resort
Darbandsar ski resort
Darbandsar ski resort is located in Shemshak city and near Shemshak and Dizin ski resorts. It is one of the most advanced ski resorts in Iran and the only one to be equipped with a snow making machine. In addition, after the improvement of the lighting in the resort ski enthusiasts were given the chance to experience skiing at night as well. Darbandsar ski resort has hosted some of the competitions of the International world championship.
ِDarbandsar ski resort
Ski season in Iran
Tochal ski resort is usually the first one covered by snow and ready to receive skiers yearly; however, other Iran ski resorts are usually available from mid-November to mid-May.
Ski touring in Iran
Despite the existence of many equipped ski resorts in Iran, Ski touring has found its way to the hearts of those who seek adventure. Ski touring can be done on any mountain and doesn’t get limited to a specific area or an area prepared by snowblowers.
This adventurous and exciting activity has become more popular over the years. Ski touring is a new and exhilarating winter activity that attracts both mountain climbers and skiers as it involves both sports.
In ski touring, the mountaineer ascends to the summit with skis on, using special skills and equipment, and then starts skiing down from the summit. This type of trekking will be easier as the feet won’t sink in the snow as much.
The existence of the towering Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges with more than 4000 meters of altitude has made Iran a great ski touring destination thus Iran ski tours have become popular. Mount Damavand (5610 m) and Alam-Kuh (4840 m) are two of the most popular destinations for this exhilarating sport. In addition, many of the mountains in central Alborz and Zagros are suitable for ski touring in Iran.
The mountain ranges in Iran are older and more eroded than the Alps, making these folds less steep. Therefore, the mountaineers will have to face fewer technical difficulties. Furthermore, there’s less risk of avalanches in the mountains in Iran and there are no ice cracks, making them a safe ski touring destination.
The best time for ski touring in Iran
The ski touring season starts later than normal skiing as there is no snow blowing machines to make the snow stable. The instability of snow and the bitter cold weather of the mountains are some of the reasons for the delayed ski touring season. Although ski touring is also possible in winter in some locations, the best time for ski touring is between March and May as the snow gets more stable. During spring, Ski enthusiasts can also enjoy other activities during their trip to Iran such as exploring the desert and visiting top historical monuments after their ski touring adventure.
Ski touring on Doberar Range, to the summit of Angemar Peak (4050m), Cheetah-Adventures Damavand ski tour (2026)
Skiing in Iran with Cheetah-Adventures
Ski touring requires an advanced level of experience and skill in mountaineering and skiing due to its novelty in Iran and the high level of adventure and mountain climbing it involves. We at Cheetah-Adventures value safety matters alongside joy and satisfaction of the tour and realize all the safety precautions according to the international standards. We also equip our guides and travelers with a full pack of rescue and aid equipment including first aid kit, snow shovel, and avalanche transceiver.
As an Iranian tour operator, Cheetah-Adventures utterly fulfills its responsibility for the safety of the travelers by hiring special professional guides who hold official certificates from the national ski federation after having participated in several mountaineering, skiing, first aid, and rescuing courses.
Despite having held many cultural tours, Cheetah-Adventures travel agency is mainly focused on adventure tours and has successfully held many ski tours, trekking tours, and other adventure tours. Cheetah-Adventure strives to give its travelers an unforgettable experience and a safe and joyful Iran trip.
Iran Travel Experts are ready to answer your questions
Iran Ski Resorts
Plan with confidence
31 practical answers from our Iran travel specialists.
31 questionsSelect a question to reveal the answer
01What is the best season for skiing in Iran ski resorts?
The ski season in Iran is normal from December to late-April; however, it might begin a month earlier or end a month later depending on annual precipitation.
02Are there any hotels near Iran ski resorts?
Yes, usually there is a hotel with the same name near the ski resort such as Dizin Hotel or Tochal Hotel which is located at 3600 m of altitude. Spending a day at one of these hotels can be very enjoyable after skiing in Iran ski resorts.
03What type of accommodation will I have during Iran ski tours? ( hotel or guesthouse)
We normally chooses hotels as accommodation for our skiers but it’s possible to request an apartment, chalet or guesthouse instead.
04Are cable car (Telecabin) and chairlift fees included in ski tour packages?
Yes our ski tour packages include lift and entrance fees, accommodation, and transportation.
05What is the necessary equipment for skiing in Iran?/ what type of equipment do I need for skiing in Iran?
You can find a list of the necessary equipment for skiing in Iran webpage on our website or in the equipment section of our Iran skiing tour webpage. It’s also possible to rent the equipment if you don’t have them.
06Can I rent skiing equipment?/ Can I rent skiing equipment or do I have to bring them along?
Providing skiing equipment is not included in our Iran tour package; however, you can rent the equipment that you don’t have or can’t bring to Iran. You can request the equipment that you don’t have after checking the complete list of the necessary equipment on our website. It’s recommended to use your own ski boots and skis to be more comfortable. You can rent ski poles, clothes, and even ski boots and skis at most ski resorts in Iran for 15 – 25 euros.
07Is there risk of avalanches at Iran ski resorts?
No, there is no risk of avalanches inside Iran ski resorts as the surface is flattened by Snowcats. In case excessive snowfall increases the risk of avalanches the roads leading up to the ski resort will be blocked. Tochal ski resort and Tochal Telecabin (cable car) won’t be accessible as well in similar situations.
08Can I add an Iran cultural tour to my Iran skiing tour?
Yes, you can choose the Iran cultural tourpackage that you like from our website and book it for after or before your Iran ski tour. Our experts will kindly help you choose the Iran tour package that suits you best based on your schedule and the weather. You can also request a customized tour in the Iran tailor-made tours section on our website. You’ll receive a bundle discount if you book both tours.
09What are the best ski resorts in Iran?
The best ski resorts in Iran are near Tehran, the capital of the country. Some of the most famous ski resorts near Tehran are Dizin, Darbandsar, Shemshak, Tochal, Abali. Among them, Dizin is the largest ski resort and Tochal has the most elevation with 3600 m of altitude.
10What should I do if I get injured while skiing in Iran?
In case you get injured the resort staff will immediately take you to the nursery to receive medical attention. If your injury is severe you’ll be taken to one of the equipped hospitals in Tehran.
11What are the opening hours of ski resorts in Iran?
Ski lifts normally work from 8 AM to 3-4 PM daily. However; the ski resort working hours might vary or the resort might get closed under unstable weather conditions as skiing may be dangerous.
12Where is Dizin ski resort?
Dizi ski resort is the largest and most popular ski resort in Iran. It’s located 70 km northeast of Tehran. Check out the link below for more information on Iran ski resorts.
13What is the average temperature at Iran ski resorts during the day?
The average temperature at Iran ski resorts is usually between -5 to -10 Celsius during ski season. This number is almost 5 degrees lower for Tochal ski resort due to its high elevation.
14What types of food will I get during my Iran ski tour?
On the days of yourIran ski tour you’ll have breakfast and dinner at the hotel and get a pack including a sandwich, water, juice, and a small snack for lunch.
15Are there toilets at the ski resorts?
Yes, there are toilets and a restaurant available at all ski resorts in Iran.
16What should women wear while skiing in Iran?
Women are generally required to cover their hair in public areas in Iran. They are allowed to wear normal skiing clothes while skiing in Iran but have to follow a certain dress code in the city. Check out the link below to learn more about Iran dress code.
17Can I visit Iran historical attractions during my ski tour?
We normally include one or two days of Tehran sightseeing in our Iran skiing tour packages to give skiers a chance to learn about the culture and history of Iran. However, you can add an Iran cultural tour to your skiing tour if you want to learn more about Iran.
You can find a list of our tours in the link below. Iran Tours.
18Is it possible to make changes in the Iran ski resort tour package or the travel itinerary?
Yes. Our private Iran skiing tours can be altered based on your preferences. You only need to mention the desired changes in the comment section when booking your Iran ski resorts tour. Our experts will contact you later and ask for the details. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to change the travel itinerary for Iran group tours except for minor changes.
19How can I get an Iran visa for my Iran ski trip ? How much does it cost? How long does the process take?
Obtaining an Iran visa normally takes around two weeks for citizens of most countries. The process takes between 1 and 2 months and sometimes more for passport holders of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Visa services are included in our Iran ski tour packages. If you’re not traveling with us, you can ask for a visa service or apply for it on your own. Check the Iran Visa Page for more information on Iran tourist visa and visa fees.
20Can I leave the stuff I don’t need for my Iran ski resorts tour at the Cheetah-Adventures office?
Yes. You can leave your extra luggage at our office. Your stuff will be safe with us and you can pick them up later or request for them to be sent to your address.
21Can I request private accommodation or do I have to use shared accommodation?
The default type of accommodation for our Iran ski tours is a hotel. You can request an apartment or a chalet (at some ski resorts) as well. Note that the sooner you make your request the better choices you’ll have.
22What is the capacity of Iran group tours?
An Iran small group tour normally consists of less than 10 people. You can book an Iran private tour package with the number of your companions. Larger group tours can be perfectly performed by increasing the number of tour guides. Cheetah-Adventures have successfully performed tours with more than 20 people. A Persian tour guide will be designated for the tour for every 4 people for safety measures.
23Can solo travelers join Iran small group tours?
Absolutely. You can choose one of our Iran small group tour packages with a fixed date. These Iran tour packages are designed for solo travelers and those traveling in small groups. They are also a great option for travelers who are cost-sensitive and looking for a more affordable Iran tour. You can find fixed-date offers in the price section for each Iran tour package.
24Are Wi-Fi and Mobile Phone signals accessible during my Iran ski tour?
Yes, cell phone signals are accessible at all ski resorts in Iran. You can buy an Iranian SIM card and use its data connection. In addition, free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and other types of accommodation. Cheetah-Adventures provides the travelers with a portable Wi-Fi modem for free so they’d have access to Wi-Fi outside the hotel.
25Will I be provided with accident insurance if I get injured during my Iran tour? What will happen to me in this case?
All travelers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to traveling to Iran. Insurance companies offer different types of insurance and services. We recommend you check the sorts of medical attention and accidents that your travel insurance offers when purchasing it and get another one if necessary.
26How much cash will I need for my Iran ski resorts tour?
You won’t need much cash money if your Iran ski tour is full-board since meals and accommodation are included. We recommend you have the Rial equivalent of 50 euros cash in case you want to buy extra snacks or souvenirs. You can always ask your guide for cash if you run out and pay them back later. On the other hand, if your ski tour doesn’t include meals, 50 euros will still suffice.
27Can I use credit cards for skiing in Iran ?
No. Unfortunately, credit cards and international debit cards can’t be used in Iran and you have to pay for everything in cash. Our team at Cheetah-Adventures travel agency always values the comfort and satisfaction of travelers, thus you’ll be given a Persian debit card to use during your trip. You can charge this card anytime you want by giving dollars or euros to your guide or transferring money to our account. Note that the exchange rate will be calculated daily.
28How long before my Iran ski trip should I book my skiing tour?
If you’re a meticulous person and plan things in advance we recommend you book your Iran ski tour 3 to 6 months in advance and get an early bird discount.
Generally, it’s recommended to book your Iran ski tour package at least two months before the beginning of your Iran trip. This way we’ll be able to apply for your Iran tourist visa in time and book the best accommodation for you. If you’ve already obtained your Iran visa or are currently in Iran you can book a tour up to one week before the start date; however, you’ll have limited options for accommodation. Note that the visa process takes longer for passport holders of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada thus; these travelers have to book their tour at least 3 months in advance.
29Is there any important medical or dietary information I should know about Iran?
Yes. Please inform us of any special diseases such as cardiac disease, respiratory disease, or brain lesion background, or any prescription drugs you need to take. Also please let us know if you’re on a special diet (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) or have an allergy to any type of food (spices, gluten, lactose).
30Can I have a private Iran ski resorts tour with a private guide?
Yes. You can request a private tour, a tour that only includes you and friends or family that you’re traveling with. It’s also possible to request a private guide on an Iran group tour.
31Is it possible for female solo travelers to have a female tour guide?
Yes, you can request a female guide when booking your Iran ski tour package.
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