Anzali Lagoon
Bandar Anzali is a touristic city in Iran with historical attractions such as The Clock Tower, ancient bridges, military museum , Anzali aquarium and free zone shopping malls and Anzali lagoon.
This natural freshwater lagoon, which is recognized as an important bird sanctuary in the world, hosts about 100 species of birds such as swans, herons, ducks, etc. A variety of fish species like Caspian White Fish, Anchovy, and the Common Carp inhabit live and spawn in this lagoon .
Water lilies that grow in summer add to yet another beauty of Anzali Lagoon. Pink water lilies with green heart-shaped leaves cover the lake giving it a magnificent view.
Sorkhangal Wildlife Reserve in Anzali Lagoon hosts even more water lilies and is considered to be the safest place in the lagoon for the birds to nest and lay eggs.
Besides water lilies, there are some canebrakes in Anzali Lagoon that offer a memorable boat riding experience. Bandar Anzali and Abkenar are the two coastal cities of Anzali Lagoon.
Tourists can stay in hotels and villas of these two cities and visit the local bazaars for handicrafts like the wickerwork and pearl weaving. Local dishes and side dishes such as pickles, ‘Zeytoon Parvardeh’ (olives mixed with ground walnuts and pomegranate paste) and local herbs are something that you shouldn’t miss on your visit to these cities.As fishing is a major occupation in the north of Iran, fried or grilled fish such as Caspian White Fish or Sturgeon with herbs are among the popular local dishes.
Other specialties in the local cuisine are ‘Fesenjan Stew’ (chicken, walnuts, and pomegranate paste), ‘Torshe Kebab’ (grilled meat that has been marinated in pomegranate paste) and ‘Baqala Qatoq’ (beans, dill and eggs).
