Discover Palangan, a stunning stepped village in Kurdistan Province, perched on the slopes of the Zagros Mountains at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level. Known for its unique terraced architecture, where the rooftops of houses form the courtyards of the homes above, Palangan offers a glimpse into authentic Kurdish rural life, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.
Palangan features a continental Mediterranean climate, with cold, snowy winters and mild to warm summers. The village’s proximity to rivers, springs, and green valleys makes it an oasis of life amid rugged mountains, especially vibrant in spring and early summer.
Key attractions in Palangan include its traditional stone houses, cascading down the mountainside, and the Tangi Var (Palangan) River, which flows through the valley, offering picturesque picnic spots and crystal-clear water. The area is also known for its ancient castle ruins, pastoral scenery, and rich Kurdish music and dance traditions. Palangan’s hospitable residents often invite visitors to experience their culture up close.
Here are your intercity means of transportation:
By Road: Palangan is located about 57 km west of Kamyaran and approximately 120 km southwest of Sanandaj, accessible via winding mountain roads. Most travelers visit Palangan by private car or as part of guided tours from Sanandaj or Kamyaran.
By Train: The nearest railway stations are in Sanandaj and Kermanshah, from where travelers continue by road to Palangan.
By Flight: The closest airport is Sanandaj Airport (SDG), with domestic flights from Tehran. From there, Palangan is about a two-hour drive.
Palangan is most breathtaking in spring when the surrounding valleys are lush and green, and local cultural life is vibrant.
High season: Spring (March to May), when the rivers are full, the pastures are green, and local festivals bring Kurdish culture to life. Autumn (late September to early November) is also beautiful, with mild temperatures and colorful landscapes.
Low season: Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, though it adds a magical stillness to the village. Summer (late June to early September) is warm but remains pleasant compared to lowland regions due to its elevation.
✓ Norooz holidays (approximately March 15th to April 2nd) are a peak season in Palangan, celebrated with vibrant Kurdish music, group dances (Halparke), and communal gatherings by the riverside. Local families decorate their homes with Haft-Seen tables, and pre-Norooz festivities like Sad Daf ceremonies may also take place across Kurdistan, adding to the festive atmosphere. The natural beauty of Palangan in spring, combined with its authentic rural traditions, makes Norooz a truly special time to visit.
