Location and surroundings
Jabal Bīrah Magrūn belongs to the chain Western Asia > Iranian Plateau > Zagros Mountains > Northern Zagros > Barakan Dagh. It is in Iraq, in a mountainous part of the northern Zagros where the terrain is cut by ridges, saddles and closely spaced summits. The mountain stands above a cluster of nearby peaks, so the landscape around it is shaped by short but steep changes in height.
Neighbouring peaks
Nearby summits and passes give a good sense of its position in the range:
- Qimmat Rabanah — 1,608 m, 1.9 km south
- Qimmat Mīrqūrī — 1,822 m, 2.4 km south
- Qimmat Shākhah Rūkhāw — 2,175 m, 2.5 km east
- Tall Kirdā Siyā — 1,534 m, 2.8 km southeast
- Tall Bāwkirdān — 1,558 m, 3.2 km east
- Tall Say Kirdkān — 1,213 m, 3.3 km northeast
- Tall Baqjalah — 1,318 m, 3.5 km east
- Charmaban — 2,088 m, 4.0 km northwest
Jabal Bīrah Magrūn is higher than all of these nearby points, and several are much lower, which underlines its dominance over the immediate ridgeline.
The view from the summit
From the summit, the highest peaks within 25 km are the main landmarks to look for across the surrounding Zagros ridges. To the north lie Jabal Kawmah Dāl at 2,566 m, 19.2 km away, and Asos at 2,450 m, 21.8 km away. Also within range are Jabal Shaykh Muḩammad to the north, Qimmat Lūtkay Sarchālān to the north, Qimmat Razā Jawrīn to the northwest, and Qimmat Jābir to the southeast.
The range
Barakan Dagh is the range that Jabal Bīrah Magrūn tops. Its high point is Barakan Dagh itself, and the range contains 181 named peaks. Within that group, Jabal Bīrah Magrūn ranks first by elevation. That makes it the reference summit for the range and the highest point in this local mountain group.
Climate and weather
At 2,611 m in the northern Zagros, conditions are typically cooler and windier than in the lowlands. Summers are usually the most workable season for travel, while winter brings cold, snow, and difficult footing on exposed slopes and ridges. Weather can change quickly in mountain terrain, and visibility may drop with cloud, haze, or strong wind.
Best time to visit
For a mountain of this height in Iraq, the most practical time to visit is generally late spring through early autumn, when snow cover is reduced and temperatures are more manageable. Earlier in the year, lingering snow and wet ground can slow progress on higher ground. In the hottest part of summer, start early and plan for strong sun and dry air.
Nature and wildlife
The slopes of the northern Zagros are usually a mix of rocky ground, open grass, and sparse mountain scrub, with vegetation becoming thinner as height increases. On a peak like Jabal Bīrah Magrūn, the upper terrain is likely to be exposed and stony, while lower slopes can support more plant cover after seasonal rains. Wildlife in this region is typically adapted to dry mountain conditions and broken terrain.
Guides and organised ascents
For a high mountain in rugged terrain, a certified guide is sensible if you are not familiar with the area, weather, and route-finding. Look for an IFMGA/UIAGM guide through the national mountain guide association or local tourist offices in places named for the region. A guided ascent usually covers planning, transport, pacing, and safety decisions; the cost depends on trip length, group size, hut nights if any, and equipment needs.
Safety and preparation
Jabal Bīrah Magrūn calls for fitness, steady pacing, and preparation for steep ground. Carry layers for wind and cold, sun protection, and enough food and water for a full day. Good footwear matters on loose rock and uneven slopes. In mountain weather, start early, watch for sudden changes, and be ready to turn back if cloud, wind, or snow makes the ridge unsafe.
Interesting facts
Jabal Bīrah Magrūn is the highest of the 181 named peaks in Barakan Dagh. It stands 2,611 m above sea level and is the range high point. The nearest higher major summit listed within 25 km is Jabal Kawmah Dāl at 2,566 m, 19.2 km to the north, while the closest named peaks around it are much lower, especially to the south.
FAQ
How high is Jabal Bīrah Magrūn? It rises to 2,611 m.
Where is Jabal Bīrah Magrūn? It is in Iraq, in the Barakan Dagh part of the Northern Zagros on the Iranian Plateau in Western Asia.
What range is it part of? It belongs to Barakan Dagh, where it is the highest of 181 named peaks.
What are the nearest peaks? The closest listed summits include Qimmat Rabanah to the south, Qimmat Mīrqūrī to the south, and Qimmat Shākhah Rūkhāw to the east.
Is there water on the way to Jabal Bīrah Magrūn? On a dry mountain ridge like this, plan to carry your own supply; for a day outing, 1.5-3 litres is a sensible range depending on heat and effort. In colder seasons, snowmelt may be present higher up, but it should be treated before drinking.
When is the best time to go? Late spring through early autumn is generally the most practical period, when snow is less likely and travel on the slopes is easier.