Iran’s Ali-Sadr Cave, Largest Water Cave in World

Caves are like ancient vaults of the planet's history, cradling untold stories and preserving the echoes of time between their walls. Each is a unique narrative and a silent witness to past eons.

Ali Sadr Cave boasts an array of geological marvels that will leave any visitor in awe. Stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millennia, hang like natural chandeliers while shimmering pools and mysterious chambers beckon you deeper into the heart of this underground wonderland.

Ali Sadr Cave is nothing short of a miracle crafted by Mother Nature herself. It's not just a destination; it's an invitation to embark on an otherworldly adventure. Follow us as we embark on an extraordinary journey to explore the history, structures and location of this subterranean masterpiece. Be prepared to be spellbound by its wonders!

About Ali Sadr Cave

Ali Sadr Cave is located in Hamedan province on Sarighieh Heights near Alisadr village. In 2008, it was officially registered as Iran's 23rd natural monument by Iran's Cultural Heritage Organization.

Ali Sadr cave reaches a staggering height of 2100 meters above sea level. Inside Ali Sadr Cave, visitors are mesmerized by its intricate network of winding cave halls and captivating cave atriums.

In addition, there are two other caves by the names of Soo Bashi and Sarab Caves near Ali Sadr Cave, and the water in Alisadr Cave takes its source from that of the Sarab Cave, giving the cave a distinctive feature of a pool of water, which creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere inside the cave.

History of Ali-Sadr Cave

The history of Ali Sadr Cave is a fascinating tale of ingenuity, natural wonders, and human exploration. Located in the hills, the cave is accompanied by two other caves known as Soo Bashi and Sarab Caves. The water within Ali Sadr Cave originates from Sarab Cave.

The geological origins of the Alisadr cave can be traced back to the 2nd geological period, dating approximately 136-190 million years ago. The local villagers recognized the value of the cave's water and devised a brilliant solution to utilize it during the summer and hot weather. They ingeniously diverted excess water from Sarab Creek into Ali Sadr Cave, effectively transforming it into a reservoir. The water level rose to an impressive 2.20 meters near the cave's entrance, temporarily blocking access.

However, in 1957, an earthquake caused a significant crack to open in Sarab Cave, halting the flow of water from Sarab Creek into Ali Sadr Cave. It took six years for the water level in Ali Sadr Cave to normalize, restoring access once again. This event marked a turning point as mountaineers and mountain climbers seized the opportunity to explore the depths of the cave.

In 1963, a group of 14 mountain climbers from Hamedan conducted the first professional excavations in Ali Sadr Cave. Their efforts contributed to our understanding of the cave's geological and historical significance. Up until 1973, the cave's opening was a mere 50 centimeters wide, limiting access to professional climbers. However, in that year, Abdullah Hajiloo, with the help of local residents and the mountaineering committee, successfully widened the opening to 5 meters and increased its height to 3 meters. The following year, a concrete path was constructed, allowing visitors to explore a section of the cave on foot.

By 1976, Ali Sadr Cave was equipped with boats and lighting facilities, making it accessible to ordinary people and tourists. Printed entry tickets were introduced and managed by Hamedan's Physical Education organization, officially opening the cave to the public.

While approximately 2,100 meters of the cave's canals have been explored so far, it is believed that there are still undiscovered passages waiting to be explored.

Origin of the Name Ali Sadr

The origin of the name "Ali Sadr Cave" is intertwined with the historical usage of the cave as a water reservoir and a series of administrative decisions. Initially, the village's name was officially registered as "Ali-Sard," with "Sard" translating to "Cold" in English due to its association with the cave's function as a dam and reservoir.

However, in 1971, during the construction of the village's road, the executive contractor decided to use the name "Ali-Sadr" for the project. This name gradually gained popularity and became commonly used for both the village and the cave. Today, the name "Ali Sadr" is widely recognized and used by locals and visitors alike, although the village's original name was "Ali-Sard."

Features of Ali Sadr Cave

Ali Sadr Cave is an extraordinary underground marvel renowned for its well-organized structure and captivating features. The cave is a complex network of interconnected halls and passages, creating a mesmerizing labyrinth-like maze.

The cave's ceiling height ranges from 1 to 35 meters, while the canal widths vary from 2 to 15 meters. The water depths within the cave fluctuate between 1 to 17 meters, adding to the diverse and enchanting environment.

The cave's ceiling is adorned with layers of pure calcium carbonate and other chemical compounds, resulting in stunning stalagmites that showcase unique and intricate designs, leaving visitors in awe.

The cave also houses chambers with towering ceilings resembling grand concert halls, while other regions feature lower ceilings that require visitors to bend their necks. One notable chamber is the "Freedom Hall," the largest chamber in Ali Sadr Cave, stretching an impressive 100 meters wide. Another mesmerizing sight is the "Wedding Chamber," adorned with thousands of small white crystals formed by stalactites, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Alis Sadr cave is also equipped with electric power and canoes capable of accommodating four people, allowing visitors to navigate the waterways and facilitate exploration.

Ali Sadr Cave also features an expansive lake, offering the opportunity for boating through its deeper sections. The lake's water originates from underground springs and seepage from the cave's walls and ceilings, creating a serene and picturesque setting. In addition to the awe-inspiring sights, the cave boasts clean and fresh air, devoid of pollution and dust. Its temperature remains cool during summer and mild in winter, so you should plan your attire accordingly.

The Best Time to Visit Ali Sadr Cave

If you're planning to visit the enchanting Alisadr Cave in Hamedan, it's important to consider the best time to travel and the routes to reach your destination. Hamedan, being a mountainous city, is most enjoyable to explore from mid-May until October when the weather is pleasant. As caves tend to have cooler temperatures compared to the outside, it's advisable to bring a jacket along in case it gets a little chilly inside.

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