Ahmad Awa Waterfall: A Kurdish Natural Paradise
Discover Ahmad Awa: Sulaymaniyah's stunning waterfalls, lush landscapes, and serene escape into Kurdish natural beauty.
Ahmad Awa, located in the heart of the Sulaymaniyah Governorate, is a captivating natural retreat celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes. The area features stunning waterfalls, vibrant greenery, and serene riverbanks, creating a picturesque and tranquil environment for visitors. The waterfall is part of the headwaters of the Zalm Stream, which flows towards the Tanjero River. Visitors can explore various walking trails that meander through the lush surroundings, offering opportunities for hiking and immersing themselves in nature. The soothing sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves create a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for picnics and relaxation. Spring and summer are particularly enchanting, with flora in full bloom and the waterfalls at their most impressive. Historically, the area around Ahmad Awa, including the village of Zalm, has been known as the home of many writers, historical, religious, political, and artistic personalities in Kurdistan. The area has teashops and shops lining the stream below the waterfall during the spring and summer. Vineyards, pomegranate, and walnut orchards dot the landscape, adding to the area's charm. While the road to reach the village has been noted as difficult, it has not been an obstacle to the area's reconstruction and appeal as a source of livelihood for local families. Despite past security concerns, Ahmad Awa remains a popular tourist spot, offering a delightful experience that captures the essence of the region's natural beauty.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the riverside for a relaxing experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as some trails can be uneven and require good footing.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best conditions for outdoor activities.
- Respect the natural environment by taking all your trash with you.
A brief summary to Ahmad Awa
- 838R+W4, Zalm, Sulaymaniyah Governorate, IQ
Getting There
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Taxi
From Sulaymaniyah city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Ahmad Awa. Taxis are readily available throughout the city. A ride to Ahmad Awa, approximately 60km northeast of Sulaymaniyah, will take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Expect to pay around 25,000 to 35,000 Iraqi Dinars for the trip. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
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Public Transport
While public transport options to Ahmad Awa are limited, you can take a shared taxi or minibus from Sulaymaniyah to Halabja. From Halabja, hire a local taxi to Ahmad Awa, which is about 21 km northeast of Halabja. The shared taxi/minibus from Sulaymaniyah to Halabja costs around 3,000 IQD. The taxi from Halabja to Ahmad Awa will cost an additional 10,000 to 15,000 IQD. Be prepared for a longer travel time and potential waiting for the shared taxi/minibus to fill up.
