Zarivar lake
Zarivar lake is the most important wetland and the most unique water attraction in the west of the country, which is located a short distance from the city of Marivan and at an altitude of 1285 meters above sea level.
All around Zarivar Lake is surrounded by forested mountains and adds to its beauty. The original name of this lake in the past was "Zeravbar", which over time has changed to "Zaribar" and "Zarivar". This name is a relic of ancient time and the Pahlavi language, which was spoken by the people of this region before Islam. Zari means lake and the suffix "war" means side, which are used together to mean by the lake.
The length of the lake is 4.5 km and its width is about 2 km and it covers an area of about 850 to 900 hectares. The average depth of the lake is 3 meters (2 to 5 meters), which in terms of depth, width and volume of water are very suitable conditions for boating and water skiing.
The water of Zarivar Lake
The water of Zarivar Lake is sweet andis originated from the boiling springs located at the bottom of the lake so that no river enters it but the lake itself is the source of the Marivan River.
Due to its fresh water, Zarivar Lake has created the necessary conditions for the growth and life of all kinds of fish, which are cooked in an interesting way and provided to travelers at the edge of the lake. It creates a lot of beauty, especially when the surrounding villagers travel on the lake.
Greenery and beautiful scenery, cool and temperate weather conditions ,facilities such as convenient parking, 4-star Zarivar hotel by the lake, camping facilities by the lake, restaurants with a variety of food and most importantly security have caused this region to become an important tourism hub in Kurdistan.
One of the endless wonders and beauties of Zarivar Lake is the small islands in the water. Pedal boating among these islands and in the spring and summer weather can bring you countless pleasures. Bird watching and of course fishing is another common activities that you can do next to Zarivar.
Of course, in certain seasons of the year, it is not possible to fish in Zarivar Lake. Among the aquatic animals in the lake, we can name the mermaid, common and spotted black fish, carp and a type of giant shrimp.
Among the valuable birds of this region, we can name the common pochard and green duck, Bitterns, various species of hooks, sea urchins, gray herons, and birds of prey such as Dalicheh and Songhar.
This region is one of the unique ecosystems of western Iran, which due to special climatic conditions, is the breeding ground for many plant and animal species.
Floating plants such as Ceratophyllium and Ceriocilium, Oak, Hawthorn, Wild Almond, Wild Pear, Lotus, Potamogeton crispus, Haftband grass, reeds, ivy, mint and beech can be named as important plant species in the region.
