Meighan Wetland

Meighan Wetland is one of the largest one in Iran, which rare migratory birds move to it annually.

Meighan Wetland, with an area of 25 thousand hectares, is one of the greatest ones in Arak, Markazi Province. The desert's nature has created a fabulous view of this place. Meighan Wetland is the habitat of some of the rare migratory birds in Iran, which is considered one of the marvelous natural attractions for birdwatching. It is also considered a top ten wetland of Iran with varied wildlife. Perhaps it will be interesting to know that this wetland dates back to the Paleocene epoch.

• What will you see in Meighan Wetland?

  Due to the salinity of the water, a Salt dome covered the Meighan Wetland during the winter. It seems white and snowy. Also, Meighan Wetland is visited by many migratory birds going to Siberia. More than 60 percent of local birds and 16 percent of birds in the whole country live at this place. These migratory birds make Meighan Wetland one of the best places for birdwatching. In the end, let’s talk about the animal and plant species of this region as follows:
   
  • This wetland is one of the major reservoirs of halophytes in Iran.
     
  • You will see some wild animals such as wolves, foxes, snakes, and some birds such as eagles. Some rare birds among the Saltbushes have created a charming view of the desert nature in this region. The common birds of the Meighan Wetland are Ducks, Phoenicopterus, and Northern lapwing.
     
  • Siberian Cranes are the prominent birds of Meighan Wetland. Due to the gathering of cranes in the Meighan Wetland on the 15th of November, it is named Crane’s Day.

• What do you need during this journey?

Sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, and a bird guide pocket book are the required things during the journey. Pay attention to wearing brown, green, and cream, colored clothes, because wearing hot colored clothes can scare birds.

• What is the best time to go?

If you enjoy birdwatching in Meighan Wetland, consider traveling to Arak during winter and spring. This wetland has a dry Mediterranean climate. During winter and spring, this region has mild weather, and migratory birds move here.

• Getting there?

Meighan Wetland is located near Arak city, Markazi Province. To reach there, you can go from Khomein on the north highway. Then reach Tareh-bar Square. Follow the route straight, about one to two kilometers, and you will see a side road. At the beginning of the side road, there is a Sodium sulfate factory. Four kilometers after the factory, you will reach the Meighan Wetland.