Ali Sadr Cave

Ali Sadr is a limestone cave north of Hamadan whose passages are flooded, and visits are made in pedal boats towed in trains by a guide, following several kilometres of channel through chambers with stalactites, columns and rock formations reflected in still clear water that reaches depths of over ten metres in places. The system is large, with mapped passages running to many kilometres, only part of which is open. Water temperature stays cool and constant. It has been known and used for a very long time, with inscriptions and remains suggesting use in the Achaemenid period, and it was developed for visitors from the 1970s. It is one of the most visited natural attractions in Iran and can be extremely busy.

What you actually see

• Pedal boats through flooded passages - the only way through the cave.
• Stalactites reflected in still water - formations doubled in the surface.
• Deep clear channels - water over ten metres deep in places.
• Large chambers - open halls reached along the boat route.

When to go

April to October, though the cave itself is a constant temperature year round. Half a day including the drive from Hamadan. Iranian holidays and weekends bring very long queues; weekday mornings are far better.

Honest expectations

Queues at busy times can run to hours and the boat trains move fast, so you see little at leisure. Lighting is coloured and gaudy. It is cold inside and a jacket is needed. Development around the entrance is unattractive and commercial.

Nearby

Hamadan is south; Katale Khor cave lies west in Zanjan province.