Darbandsar Ski Resort , one of the most famous ski resorts in Iran, is located 60 kilometers northeast of Tehran, in the Darbandsar area of Lavasanat. The resort was established in 1978 (1357 in the Iranian calendar) through the collaboration of local residents from Shemshak and Darbandsar and ski instructors, and officially began operating in 1982 (1361) under the name “Paya.” Unfortunately, during its construction, Esmaeil Savoji, the father of ski champion Alidad Savoji, lost his life in an accident. With private sector investment, the resort’s facilities were expanded, and in 2008 (1387) it received international recognition from the International Ski Federation. Darbandsar is the only ski resort in Iran equipped with a snow-making machine and has hosted numerous international competitions.
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History of Darbandsar Ski Resort
Darbandsar Ski Resort was launched in 1978 through the cooperation of local residents of Shemshak and Darbandsar and professional ski instructors. During construction, Esmaeil Savoji, father of ski champion Alidad Savoji, tragically passed away. With private investment, the resort expanded its facilities and, in 2008, gained international status from the International Ski Federation. It remains the only Iranian ski resort with a snow-making system and has hosted multiple international events.
This resort is located near Shemshak Ski Resort
Gondola (Cable Car)
Darbandsar Ski Resort features a 12-person gondola, 1,830 meters in length, capable of transporting 3,000 people per hour. This gondola was imported from Italy and is considered one of the modern facilities of the resort.
Chairlifts
The resort has several chairlifts:
- Four-person chairlift, 1,720 meters long, from France
- Four-person chairlift, 800 meters long, at an altitude of 3,500 meters
- Two-person chairlift, 1,110 meters long
These chairlifts provide skiers with access to various parts of the resort.
T-bar (Platter) Lift
Darbandsar is equipped with a 700-meter T-bar lift imported from Italy, designed primarily for beginner skiers, and is considered one of the essential facilities of the resort.
Educational Facilities
Darbandsar has a fully equipped ski school offering training courses for both beginner and professional skiers. These courses are conducted by certified instructors from the Iranian Ski Federation, providing a safe and professional environment to learn skiing fundamentals.
Accommodation Facilities Around the Resort
Around the resort, there are hotels and villas available for skiers and tourists. These accommodations provide comfortable and pleasant lodging with suitable services for guests.
Restaurants and Cafes
The resort features various restaurants and cafes offering both Iranian and international cuisine, providing a cozy environment for relaxation and dining amid skiing activities.
Night Skiing
Darbandsar offers night skiing, active from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. During this time, the resort’s lights are on, allowing skiers to enjoy a unique nighttime skiing experience.
Spot Iran’s Highest Peak on Clear Days
On clear, cloud-free days, the summit of Darbandsar offers breathtaking views of Mount Damavand, allowing visitors to admire Iran’s highest peak from afar while enjoying the surrounding Alborz mountain scenery.
