Darband, an old village within the metropolitan area of Tehran, is a popular hiking and nature area that begins at the end of Velenjak Street in the north of Tehran. There are several ways to reach Darband, each suitable for different types of travelers.
Taxis are a convenient option to get directly to Darband from any part of Tehran. You can either hire a private taxi (which will be more expensive) or use a ride-hailing app like Snapp or TAP30, which are the local equivalents of Uber and usually offer more competitive rates.
If you are driving, head towards Tajrish Square and then follow the signs to Darband. Look for parking in the designated areas, mainly at the lower levels of Darband, since the upper areas are mostly pedestrian zones. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during weekends and holidays, so it’s best to arrive early or consider alternative transport methods.
For the more adventurous, you can cycle to Darband from different parts of Tehran. Be aware that the streets can be busy and the air quality may vary. Cycling infrastructure is not well-developed, so caution is required.
Note: Darband is at a higher altitude than downtown Tehran, so even if you plan to hike, it's advisable to use one of the above methods to reach the starting point of the trail. From there, numerous traditional tea houses, restaurants, and footpaths await, leading up to Mount Tochal and its stunning views of the city.