Filband: Walking on the Clouds

Some places are like paintings, like scenes we see in dreams! They are the kind of places that lift the spirit of artists, inspiring them to create masterpieces, and take humans beyond the bounds of ordinary life. In Iran, such landscapes can be found, especially in the northern regions along the Caspian Sea, where they neighbor the beautiful heights of the Alborz Mountains and dense forests. Among these regions, Filband has gained widespread fame, with many people in Iran choosing it as a dreamlike destination.

Where is Filband located?

Filband Village is located in Babol County in Mazandaran Province. This county is the most populous in the province. The city of Babol, the county’s center, lies two meters below sea level. Babol County consists of two geographical regions: a plain area and a mountainous area. The plain region covers the central and northern parts of the county, while the mountainous region—with its dense broadleaf forests—is located in the south and west. The plain area formed as a result of the sea’s retreat and the deposition of sediments from rivers flowing down the northern slopes of the Alborz Mountains. The geographical diversity of the region has created a variety of landscapes and natural attractions that draw tourists’ attention. Several lakes and dams, forests with different types of tree cover, springs, and highland pastures bring together a wide range of natural attractions in Babol. This region, with its ancient history, also features numerous historical sites. However, Filband is perhaps considered one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the county.

Filband Village Location and Access

Filband is part of the Khushrud Rural District in the Bandpey-ye Gharbi District. It is bordered by Sangchal Village to the northwest, the summer pasture Vanehbon to the south, and the villages Sheikh Musa and Lahe Babol to the southeast. The village lies southwest of Babol City. To reach Filband from Babol, travelers take the road toward Amol via the Haraz Road. After several kilometers, a tunnel appears, and just beyond it, the sign for Chelav Village is on the left. Filband is accessible after passing through pastures and uphill roads. From Tehran, travelers must take Haraz Road, pass through Rudehen and the Alimestan Forest, and then turn onto a secondary route leading to Filband opposite Parn Village. This secondary road is about 30 kilometers long and passes through Pashakola and Sangchal Villages. The distance from Tehran to Filband is approximately 170 kilometers. During rainy periods, the stretch from Sangchal to Filband can be difficult and dangerous.

Features and Community of Filband

Linguists explain that the name Filband, pronounced “Fel-Ban” in the Mazandarani dialect, consists of two parts: “Fel” meaning to become tired and “Ban” meaning to end. According to local people, Filband is a place where the journey’s fatigue and difficulties come to an end—a resting spot after a long, winding, and steep path. Filband is situated at an altitude of 2,700 meters above sea level, which has earned it the nickname “the Roof of Mazandaran.”

The stunning landscapes of Filband are so mesmerizing that they are almost indescribable; the best way to truly appreciate them is to visit and see them with your own eyes! In the mornings, you will feel the clouds moving beneath your feet. Because Filband is surrounded by several tall mountains, after rainfall, the moisture cannot escape and forms clouds in the lower parts of the village. This creates the unique and unforgettable experience of “walking on clouds” when visiting Filband. Occasional and consecutive rain showers keep the village’s nature perpetually fresh and vibrant. The climate in summer is mild, making it the best season to visit Filband. Being a summer pasture region, the village becomes uninhabited in winter due to the severe cold. These climatic conditions limit vegetation growth, so only a few species—such as wild ash, sour plum, mountain barberry, and wild grape (locally called “Galash Angir”)—can thrive in Filband.