Hoz-e Soltan Salt Lake: The Natural Mirror

Travel to Iran is not limited to historical sites alone. This vibrant country is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and one such marvel awaits in the heart of the Qom Province – Hoze Soltan Lake.

Hoz-e Soltan Lake is a hidden gem dating back to the 19th century, and this enchanting lake emerged due to the Tehran-Qom road's construction in 1883.

It is also called Saveh-ye-Qom Lake and Shahi Lake, boasting a captivating setting at the foot of the majestic Alborz Mountain Range. With its ever-changing form dictated by water inputs and rainfall, Hoz-e Soltan Lake offers a dynamic spectacle throughout the year.

In this blog, we will embark on a thrilling journey to explore the captivating beauty, fascinating characteristics, and unique attractions of Hoze Soltan Lake. From its vast salt deposits to its ever-changing landscapes, get ready to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of this natural wonder.

About Hoz-e Soltan Lake

Hoze Soltan Lake, also known as Saveh-ye-Qom Lake, Qom Lake, Kevinamak, Saveh Lake, and Shahi Lake, is a breathtaking salt lake in the eastern part of Qom, Iran. 

Dating back to 1883, Hoz-e Sultan has a fascinating history. It was constructed during the era of Tehran-Qom roadscape development, and this mesmerizing lake boasts unique characteristics that make it a captivating natural wonder.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Hoz-e Soltan is its ever-changing nature. The lake's formation and extent vary dramatically throughout the year, influenced by water inputs and rainfall. In some seasons, the lake may appear dry, revealing a vast expanse of salt flats, while in others, water covers a significant portion of the lake's surface, creating a stunning contrast against the white salt deposits.

With a depth of 42 meters and an impressive coverage of 240 square kilometers, the lake spans across multiple layers, separated by up to 5 distinct saline layers. These layers, ranging up to 20 meters in thickness, are visually distinguished from the surrounding clay soils due to their brown-to-gray coloration.

Surprisingly, despite its massive size, only a small portion of the lake is covered by water, creating a surreal landscape of salt deposits that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Hoz-e Soltan lake is fed by the Shour, Ghara-Chai, and Varamin rivers, originating from the southern regions of Tehran Province. It also has additional melting snow and seasonal rainfalls that further enriches the lake's aquatic ecosystem. As the seasons change, the lake transforms, offering visitors a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.

The Hoze Soltan also Comprises two interconnected segments which divides it into the western part, named after itself, and the eastern part known as Hoz-e Moreh. During the rainy season, these segments overflow with water, creating a picturesque sight and serving as a sanctuary for a multitude of migratory birds.

While the lake itself is home to the resilient Artemia shrimp, you'll also encounter a diverse array of wildlife in the vicinity. From rabbits, rats, and deer to foxes, wolves, jackals, pigeons, geese, storks, flamingos, and even snakes.

Fascinatingly, research reveals the presence of over 240 species of valuable aerobic creatures, including algae, bacteria, and mushrooms, which contribute to the lake's thriving ecosystem.

Although experts have debated the classification of Hoz-e Sultan with some considering it a wetland. In fact, its inclusion in the list of five lakes in Qom province, approved by the renowned Ramsar Convention, further emphasizes its ecological significance.

Why is It Called the Largest Natural Mirror?

Hoz Sultan Lake has earned its prestigious title as the largest natural mirror in Iran for good reason. Its polished surface glistens with a captivating allure, reflecting the sky above and creating a mesmerizing sight.

This beautiful salt lake in Iran is not only renowned for its mirror-like appearance but also for its shallow waters that encompass vast plains of salt deposits. The combination of the lake's shallow water and the expansive salt expanse creates a breathtaking sky's reflection on the lake's surface. It's as if the heavens themselves have found a perfect reflection in the serene waters of Hoz Sultan Lake, leaving visitors in awe of this remarkable natural phenomenon.

Things You Can Do at Hoze Sultan

At Hoz-e Sultan, a world of adventure and natural beauty awaits any visitor. As you traverse this breathtaking salt lake in Iran, you'll find yourself immersed in a joyful and exhilarating experience. One of the best things to do here is embark on a leisurely walk along the lake's edges as the layers of salt crunch beneath your feet, creating a symphony of unique sounds.

Walking here is an enthralling experience that draws many visitors, with some spending hours to reach the lake's end. The glistening surface of the lake, resembling a natural mirror, spreads out before you, creating a mesmerizing effect against the backdrop of the untamed wilderness. It's an opportune moment to catch your reflection in Iran's grandest natural mirror and capture stunning photographs that truly encapsulate the beauty of the scene.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, consider joining bike and off-road groups that embark on thrilling journeys across the lake. It's an invigorating way to explore the vast expanse and soak in the unparalleled charm of Hoz-e Sultan.

If you are a nature enthusiast, you can also immerse yourself in the tranquility of these marshlands, where you can witness an array of avian species gracefully soaring through the skies.

What is the Best Time to Travel to Hoz-e Sultan?

Hoz Sultan Lake, with its ever-changing nature, offers different experiences throughout the year. As it is not a permanent lake and tends to dry up in many months, the best time to visit is particularly after rainfall when the lake comes to life. The natural mirror-like effect of the lake depends on the presence of water, making these seasons ideal for exploration.

During spring, the place has moderate weather and in Summer, on the other hand, the intense sunshine and high temperatures make it dry and less favorable for visiting. During winter, the lake experiences a seasoned cold season, and the presence of the Alborz mountain range in the north prevents the salt floor from being visible. It's important to note that extreme cold and intense sunlight can be challenging during most of the year, making early spring and mid-fall the optimal times to ensure a comfortable visit and witness the lake's beauty.

The Location of Hoze Sultan

Hoze Sultan is located approximately 40 kilometers north of Qom, and 85 km south of Tehran alongside the Qom-Tehran highway. The lake stretches across 37,075 hectares at an altitude of 720 meters above sea level; this captivating oasis stands as one of the lowest points on the Iranian plateau.

How to Get to Hoz-e Sultan

Reaching Hoz-e Soltan Salt Lake is relatively convenient, with multiple transportation options available. If you're coming from Tehran, Qom can be easily accessed by train or bus, making it an ideal starting point for your journey. Once you arrive in Qom, you can easily reach Hoz-e Soltan Salt Lake by taking a taxi.

For those traveling along the Qom-Isfahan highway, the lake is visible from the road itself.

Bottom Line

Hoze Soltan Lake is a hidden gem within Iran's natural landscape, offering a unique and captivating experience for travelers seeking something beyond the usual historical sites. The ever-changing beauty of this salt lake in Iran, with its vast salt deposits, stunning mirror-like effect, and surrounding salt marshlands, creates an ethereal ambiance that will leave you spellbound. Whether you want to witness the lake's transformation throughout the seasons or want to explore the fascinating birds that call this place home, Hoze Soltan Lake promises an unforgettable adventure. So, venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the wonders of this enchanting salt lake paradise located 40 km north of Qom.

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