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Cheekha Dar

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Cheekha Dar, whose name in the Kurdish language means 'Black Tent', is the highest peak in Iraq at 3,611 meters. It is situated exactly on the border between Iraq and Iran in the Zagros Mountains and belongs to the Erbil Governorate. The mountain is characterized by its extreme weather conditions and difficult accessibility, as it lies in a politically sensitive border area. Nevertheless, it attracts experienced mountaineers seeking to conquer the 'Roof of Iraq'. The landscape is marked by barren rock formations, alpine vegetation, and massive snowdrifts in winter. Due to the military significance of the border region, the mountain was closed to the public for a long time, which contributed to its nature remaining largely untouched. Experienced guides are essential for an expedition to the summit. From the top, an incomparable view of the Iranian and Iraqi mountain ranges stretching to the horizon is offered.

Location: Iraq
Top sights: Mine Land · Cheekha Dar
Nearby: Halgurd Mountain (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-3	-1	3	8	14	20	24	24	19	12	4	-1
Rain mm	35	32	49	50	28	7	3	3	3	27	38	34

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching the summit usually requires a challenging expedition starting from nearby Kurdish villages, typically involving local guides familiar with the sensitive border area.

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Best season

The most suitable time for an ascent is generally during the late spring or early autumn, avoiding the severe winter snows and the intense heat of the peak summer months.

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Terrain & paths

The landscape is characterized by rugged, steep, and often unforgiving mountainous terrain, requiring visitors to navigate rocky slopes and potentially snow-covered sections.

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What to bring

Sturdy mountaineering boots, layered weather-resistant clothing, navigation tools, and sufficient provisions are absolutely essential for this remote and demanding environment.

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Parking

Vehicles are typically left in the nearest accessible base village, from where the rest of the arduous journey must be undertaken strictly on foot towards the border.

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Safety

Due to its location exactly on the border, strict adherence to local security advice is crucial, and traveling with an experienced local guide is strongly recommended.

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Time needed

Expeditions to this remote peak usually require multiple days to complete, factoring in the long approach, acclimatization, and the challenging ascent to the highest point.

Geography

Coordinates

36.77250, 44.91920

Facts

At 3,611 meters, Cheekha Dar is the highest point of Iraqi territory.
The summit lies on the international border between Iraq and Iran.
Gylve Fossdal from Norway was one of the first documented climbers in 2004.
The name 'Cheekha Dar' translates to 'Black Tent' in Kurdish.
Due to landmines in the border region, the ascent is extremely dangerous without a guide.
The mountain is often incorrectly listed in older sources as shorter than Halgurd.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Halgurd Mountain7 km · SExplore →

Halgurd16 km · WExplore →

Qandil Mountains17 km · WExplore →

Bekhal Waterfall44 km · SExplore →

Soran Valley44 km · SExplore →

Rawandiz46 km · SExplore →

Korek Mountain47 km · SExplore →

Gali Ali Beg54 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Cheekha Dar (2)

Mine Land🌿 nature

A high-altitude viewpoint near the summit of Cheekha Dar with views over the border.

Cheekha Dar🌿 nature

Standing at 3,611 meters in the Zagros Mountains, this peak is the highest point in Iraq.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Cheekha Dar mean?

The name means 'Black Tent' in Kurdish.

Where exactly is Cheekha Dar located?

Right on the border between Iraq and Iran.

How high is the summit?

It is the highest point in Iraq, at approximately 3,611 meters.

Is the climb dangerous?

Yes, due to the border proximity and possible minefields, caution is needed.

Are there marked trails to the summit?

No, there are no officially marked hiking trails.

Cheekha Dar: where is it located?

Cheekha Dar is located in Iraq.

Cheekha Dar: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mine Land, Cheekha Dar.

Cheekha Dar: when is the best time to visit?