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Adventure · Tehran, Tehran

Skiing at Tochal Ski Resort

  • Difficultymoderate
  • DistanceSki runs between approximately 3,730m and 3,900m elevation, reached via the Tochal Telecabin from Station 1
  • Best seasonJanuary to March for the most reliable snow cover
  • PriceDay lift pass and gondola access roughly $15-40 depending on season and package; Tochal Hotel packages combining lift and lodging run approximately $40-130
  • OperatorTochal Ski Resort

Tochal Ski Resort sits on the upper slopes of Mount Tochal in the Alborz range, with runs between roughly 3,730m and 3,900m elevation reached by taking the Tochal Telecabin from Station 1 up to Station 5 or Station 7. It is one of the world's higher-altitude ski areas and one of the few resorts reachable directly from a major capital city.

Tochal Ski Resort sits on the upper slopes of Mount Tochal in the Alborz range, with runs between roughly 3,730m and 3,900m elevation reached by taking the Tochal Telecabin from Station 1 up to Station 5 or Station 7. It is one of the world's higher-altitude ski areas and one of the few resorts reachable directly from a major capital city. Runs suit beginners through intermediate skiers, with a smaller amount of terrain for more advanced riders; first-timers can book lessons on site, while experienced skiers can head straight to the lift-served pistes. Day lift passes and gondola access are sold separately from equipment rental, so visitors without their own gear rent skis, boots, poles or a snowboard at Station 5 or Station 7. The resort is operated as part of the broader Tochal Complex and is generally reliable for lift operation, though service can pause during high wind or storm conditions for passenger safety, at which point skiers are held at the nearest station until conditions clear. Because of the altitude, sunscreen and eye protection are important even on overcast days, and visitors unaccustomed to elevation should pace their first few runs. The main ski season runs December to April, with January through March offering the most consistent snow cover; early and late season visits can see thin or icy patches on lower runs.

Practical information for Skiing at Tochal Ski Resort · Last updated August 2026
Price Day lift pass and gondola access roughly $15-40 depending on season and package; Tochal Hotel packages combining lift and lodging run approximately $40-130
Duration Full day
Difficulty moderate
Season January to March for the most reliable snow cover
Address Tochal Complex, Station 5 (2,935m) to Station 7 (3,740m), Velenjak, northern Tehran

Activity facts

Where
Upper Tochal Complex, Alborz range directly north of Tehran

Equipment

Ski or snowboard equipment (rental available on-site at Station 5/7), winter mountain clothing, goggles, sunscreen for high-altitude UV exposure

Location

Tochal Complex, Station 5 (2,935m) to Station 7 (3,740m), Velenjak, northern Tehran

35.8333, 51.4167 View on map

Highlights

  • Skiing at nearly 3,800m, among the highest-altitude resorts reachable from a capital city
  • Direct gondola access from Tehran via the Tochal Telecabin
  • Runs suited to beginner and intermediate skiers, with some advanced terrain
  • On-site equipment rental at Station 5 and Station 7

Tips for visiting

  • Book lift and lodging packages in advance during the January-March peak weeks
  • Wear high-SPF sunscreen and UV-rated goggles due to intense high-altitude sun exposure
  • Rent equipment at the resort if travelling without gear, rather than bringing skis from home
  • Pace the first runs to acclimatise, since the base gondola station already sits well above sea level

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of year to ski at Tochal?

January to March generally offers the most reliable snow cover, though the resort operates from December through April.

Can equipment be rented at the resort?

Yes, ski and snowboard rental is available on-site at Station 5 and Station 7, separate from the lift and gondola ticket.

Is the resort suitable for beginner skiers?

Yes, most of the terrain suits beginner and intermediate skiers, with a smaller amount of more challenging terrain for advanced riders.