Cheekha Dar: Iraq's Majestic Summit
Conquer Iraq's highest peak, Cheekha Dar, for breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Kurdistan Region.
Cheekha Dar, meaning 'Black Tent' in Kurdish, is believed to be Iraq's highest peak, soaring to approximately 3,611 meters (11,847 feet). Located in the Kurdistan Region, near the Iranian border, it offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for adventurous travelers and hikers.
A brief summary to Cheekha Dar
Local tips
- Hire a local guide to ensure a safe and enriching experience, especially considering the potential presence of landmines in the area.
- Visit during spring or autumn for milder temperatures and optimal hiking conditions.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes by dressing in layers and packing appropriate gear.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to maintain your energy during the challenging trek.
Getting There
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Driving
The closest major town to Cheekha Dar is Choman. From Choman, a 4x4 vehicle is typically required to navigate the rocky terrain towards the mountain's base. Be aware that roads may be affected by weather conditions, especially after rainfall. It's highly recommended to hire a local driver familiar with the area. Due to the sensitive border location, ensure your driver is aware of any necessary permits or permissions. The cost for hiring a 4x4 and driver for the day can range from $50 to $100 USD, depending on negotiation and the driver's experience.
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Hiking
Once you reach the base of Cheekha Dar, the final ascent is typically on foot. The hike to the summit can take several hours, depending on your fitness level and the chosen route. It is crucial to have appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, layers of clothing, and plenty of water and snacks. Consider hiring a local guide from a nearby village like Gundah Zhur, as they can provide invaluable assistance with navigation and safety. Guide fees can vary, so negotiate a price beforehand.
Discover more about Cheekha Dar
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
چۆمان
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Nuqtat Kurah Di
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Khoshkan Resort هاوینەهەواری خۆشکان
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Choman River
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Góry Kurdystańskie
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گۆمی کرمەسوران
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Jondian
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لوتکەی کێوەڕەش
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Bakhi Ghsti
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کلکەی کۆڵێن
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Shahidan Park
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Shanidar Cave
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جیھانی مەرزیە
67.2 km
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الحاج زرار عمر شقلاوة
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Dukan Lake
70.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Qimmat Jināristān
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Halgurd Mountain
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بنکێل هۆڕنێ
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کانی دۆ
8.3 km
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سارکە
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ڤێلای سارتکە بناری هەڵگورد
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گەشتیاری گەڵی ناوەندە
12.5 km
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مۆتێلی سرووشتی باڵەکایەتی
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زنجیرە چای حەساروست
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گەشتیاری چۆمان
13.9 km
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گةشتيارى رووبارى چومان Choman resort
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کانی سەروچاوە
14.3 km
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15.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Balakayati restaurant
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مصيف جنديان
34.9 km
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Darwesh Kabab & Resturant
35.5 km
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Tonight Resturant
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Town Restaurant
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Kabab Mahmud كباب محمود
38.1 km
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Sahand Restaurant
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Ciya Restaurant
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Shahur Restaurant ڕێستۆرانتی شاهور
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Doli Alana
49.7 km
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Step Restaurant خواردنگەی ستێپ
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مطعم محوى (mahwi restaurant)
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Luqman Resturant چێشتخانەی لوقمان
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Rahman Barcham Tools Market
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جوملەی جۆمان
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ماركيتي كارزان
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جیهانی پۆشاک
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جوانکاری ئاڵتون
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كماليات ماموستا صادق
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پۆشاکی شیاو
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Choman beauty جؤمان بيوتى
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شووشەواتی ئەلەند
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پوشاکی مانگ Clothing Mang
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معرض بةسوز/پێشانگای بەسۆز
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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کباب سوڵتان
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فرؤشتگاي عبدالوهاب 2
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Ali
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شەراب ڕەش میری
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بسخووشەی شیرن سامان دێرەی
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rOman
56.8 km
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Qacoch
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Golden
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