Lake Urmia

Lake Urmia is the largest body of water inside of Iran. Before its drought and to its greatest extent, Lake Urmia was the largest lake in the middle east and the sixth-largest saltwater lake in the world. Stay with Apochi to discover Lake Urmia beauties and attractions.

About Urmia Lake

As the name indicates, Lake Urmia is located near Urmia, the capital city of the West Azarbaijan Province. This lake is an iconic natural attraction of the northwest of Iran. This giant body of water has 102 islands which all considered and protected as National Park.

Here are some of the most important islands of Lake Urmia:

• Kabudan Island (3125 hectares)
• Ashk Island (1250 hectares)
• Espir Island (1250 hectares)
• Arezoo Island (800 hectares)

Also, Mosht-e Osman (Osman’s fist) is the smallest island in Lake Urmia.

History of Lake Urmia

The old Persian name of Lake Urmia was Chichast which means glittering. This appellation might be because of the shiny minerals and salty crystal that are on the lake’s shore. After that, because of the color of the lake, Persian called it Kaboodan, which means azure.

Lake Urmia was one of the main territories of Mannaeans, an ancient people who probably lived in Hasanloo Hills. These people were defeated by Iranians, who lived there afterward.

Ecology of Lake Urmia

There are 311 types of plants, 226 types of birds, 27 types of reptiles, and 24 types of mammals living in Lake Urmia. Flamingos, pelicans, spoonbills, ibises, storks, shelducks, avocets, stilts, and gulls are common birds that live in this lake.

Lake Urmia Drought

Before the major drought which began in 2005, Lake Urmia covered an area of approximately 5,200 square meters. Unfortunately, it lost 88% of its water. There are several causes for this environmental catastrophe; however, human activities are the main ones. Most experts believe the construction of a highway from Urmia to Tabriz which crosses over the lake is the main reason for droughts.

With a significant decrease in the water level and consequently, an increase in the density of soil in the lake, a lot of microscopic creatures began to develop a life. These activities made the lake became red.

Perhaps temporarily, although the heavy rains of 2019 in Iran caused a lot of destruction in Iran, it also brought Lake Urmia back to life.

What to Do in Lake Urmia

• • Bird watching is a very popular activity in Lake Urmia. Who doesn’t like to see funny pelicans and flamingos as they walking and flying over this beautiful lake?
  • Lake Urmia is very picturesque; you can shoot fantastic photos while you visiting this lake. Also, don’t miss the magical sunset in this lake.
  • You can rent a pedal boat and have a relaxing time being on the water.
  • Some people try mud baths and salt baths in the shores. It helps them to relax, ameliorate, or heal a disease.

Lake Urmia Location

As Lake Urmia is near the capital of West Azarbaijan, you can visit attractions like Urmia Museum, Urmia Grand Bazaar, and Takht-e Soleyman. Also, you can visit Tabriz attractions like Azarbaijan Museum, Mausoleum of Poets, Amand Tourism Complex, and Eynali.

Where to Eat near Lake Urmia

There are no restaurants near this natural attraction; so, you have to bring some snacks with you!

Where to Stay near Lake Urmia

There is no accommodation near Lake Urmia, but you can stay in Urmia hotels. If you want to stay in a luxury hotel in Urmia, you can choose Urmia Aria Hotel, Urmia Park hotel, or Urmia Sahel Hotel. If you looking for budget hotels Urmia Bahar Apartment Hotel, Urmia Mah Kimia Hotel, and Urmia Morvarid Hotel are your options.