
Driving a military road to the summit of Cheekha Dar in Kurdistan
Iran, asia
N/A
3,592 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about Cheekha Dar, a seriously off-the-beaten-path peak straddling the Iran-Iraq border. We're talking 3,592 meters (that's nearly 12,000 feet!) of pure, unadulterated altitude. Known as "Black Tent," this spot connects Iraq's Choman District with Iran's Piranshahr County and boasts the title of Iraq's highest point.
Word is, the Iranian army carved out a rough, unpaved road to the top to build a military base, complete with barbed wire β so, yeah, definitely not your average Sunday drive. Nestled way up in the Zagros Mountains of Kurdistan, this area is stunning, but proceed with EXTREME caution. There's a real risk of landmines on the way up, and honestly, you're practically in no-man's land near the border. It's remote, sensitive, and sees virtually no visitors. Plus, recent reports say the Iranian military has been setting up outposts nearby. So, while the views are probably epic, this is one adventure where you need to weigh the risks VERY carefully.
Where is it?
Driving a military road to the summit of Cheekha Dar in Kurdistan is located in Iran (asia). Coordinates: 33.7379, 53.9548
Road Details
- Country
- Iran
- Continent
- asia
- Max Elevation
- 3,592 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 33.7379, 53.9548
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