Sarein is well known for its local honey

The most famous feature of Sarein though, are its mineral springs. Each spring is slightly different, and recognized for curing particular ailments. The mineral composition, size, and temperature of each one differs. Some of them remain largely the same as they have been for centuries, while others have been developed into large modern spa complexes combined with medical facilities.

Hot Springs

There are over a dozen hot springs in and near Sarein. Below are a few of some of the more well known ones:

Sabalan Hydropathy Complex — Sabalan is the large hydropathy complex in the Middle East. There are several pools, jacuzzis , dry and wet saunas, and medical staff on sight. This is the most ‘modern’ facility, all indoors, and similar to natural spa complexes in other countries.

Besh Bajilar Spa — Besh Bajilar,which means 5 sisters in Azeri, has similar facilities to Sabalan. The water for this spa comes from 5 almost identical springs. The temperature of the water is always around 35 degrees Celsius. It contains traces of chlorine, bicarbonate, sulfur, sodium, and potassium. The Besh Bajilar waters are known to be particularly good for easing joint pains.

Momtaz Coffee House Hot Spring — This spring is inside the coffee house itself. The temperature of the water reaches 48 degrees Celsius. It contains traces of bicarbonate, carbonate, sodium, and potassium and has a pH of almost 6. The waters of this spring are known to be good for pains in hands and feet, as well as for calming nerves.

General Hot Spring — This hot spring, which is located to the north of Sarein, is located 2000 meters above sea level. The temperature of the water reaches 43 degrees Celsius and the water is slightly sour and acidic. The water contains traces of bicarbonate, sodium, sulfur, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. This spring is under the open sun (no roof) and known to be good for muscular pains and relieving rheumatism.

Gavmish Goli Hot Spring — The biggest hot spring in Sarein is the Gavmish Goli, which is almost always around 46 degrees Celsius. The water does give off a faint scent of hydrogen sulfide. This spring, which is also open air (no roof) is thought to be good for a variety of ills including joint pain, female pains, and heart problems.

General Hot Spring

Cold Springs

َIn the immediate area around Sarein are several village with famous cold mineral springs. The most famous of these, Kanzagh, is two kilometers to the east. This village’s beautiful scenery makes it a popular stop. It also contains several very old caves that were inhabited back in the Parthian era (over 2000 years ago) which are still being explored by archaeologists.

Torsh Soopi — The water from this cold spring is naturally carbonated. Many locals drink its water for stomach ailments, as well as skin disorders.

Mardaan Boolaghi — A very cold, calm spring. The water in this spring is believed to very effectively get rid of hives.

Late 19th century picture of nomads relaxing in Sarein hot springs. The springs were believed to also heal animals.

Whether for healing or relaxation, Sarein is well worth a visit for any Iran traveler. Located within a few hours drive of most major areas in Northern Iran, and only about 7 hours from Tehran, it will be a memory you won’t forget.

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