Katale Khor Cave in Zanjan

Iran (IMNA) – There are many unique and incredible caves in Iran, one of which in Zanjan city is called Katale Khor cave. This cave which was discovered in 1950 by a group of Iranian cavers is 150 kilometers south west of Zanjan, in the southern skirts of the Saqizloo Mountains. This cave has been inscribed as a natural cave.

The name, Katale Khor means "mount of the sun". It is believed that the cave is connected to Ali Sadr Cave in Hamadan Province. Katale Khor mostly contains lime stalactites, stalagmites and huge halls and corridors, which are mainly dry. There are two visiting routes inside the cave: a two-kilometers long straight route for public visit, and a four kilometer long sport route for professionals.

Katle Khor and Ali Sadr caves are roughly homogenous and created at the same period of time. But there are two main differences between them: Ali Sadr Cave is a water cave, but Katale Khor is almost dry, Katale Khor's limes are purer which makes it more transparent.

One of the interesting facts about Katale Khor cave is that it has seven floors, but only three of them have been discovered and there are waterfalls on its different floors. The cressets in this cave are beautifully shaped and some of them are named after those shapes. The best time to visit the site is spring and summer.