One of the most beautiful lakes of Iran lies in Iran’s western Kurdestan Province, which is believed to be among the world’s largest sweet-water lakes. Lake Zarivar is located 2 kilometers west of the historical city of Marivan and attracts scores of tourists and nature-lovers, Press TV wrote.

 

Situated 1,285 meters above sea-level, the lake provides a breathtaking view with its sparkling sweet water supplied by subterranean sources rising from riverbed. With its natural springs, mountains and eye-catching forests, Lake Zarivar is considered the most famous tourist attraction of Kurdestan Province, which spans an area of about 185,000 hectares.

 

The climatic diversity and average temperature of Lake Zarivar provide a suitable place for tourists to relax in spring and summer.

 

In winter, a layer of ice sheet covers the entire surface of the lake, except around the 60 spots where the springs flow.

 

A unique characteristic of Lake Zarivar is that no river flows into it and its water source is limited to the nearby snow-covered mountains and the natural springs gushing at its bottom. With some 37 rare bird species and its diverse flora and fauna, Lake Zarivar is recognized as one of Iran’s unique natural sites.

 

Adequate humidity and rain have provided a suitable condition for the growth of dense oak woods and other forest trees. Maple, wild pear, ash, walnut, wild apple, wild pistachio, hawthorn, cherry and almond trees are only part of the rich plant life of the lake.

 

The area also hosts diverse animal species such as forest dormice, golden hamsters, marbled polecats, ermines, Eurasian lynx and white-toothed shrew, most of which are enlisted as endangered species.

White water lilies and long reeds frame the lake, creating a dream-like sight to behold.